Women’s Leadership Program
In Fall 2023, WPI launched its inaugural Women’s Leadership Program (WLP), an in-person, seven-session program funded by the Women’s Impact Network (WIN). This is an inclusive program with a focus on women and people who are gender diverse, open to all regardless of gender identity. The program’s customized professional development curriculum is designed to provide:
- Insights and tools necessary to deepen knowledge, skills, and abilities in evolving leaders;
- Valuable networking opportunities through course participation and post-program convenings; and,
- A supportive community to work with and uplift one another.
Eligibility and Schedule
The WLP is open to faculty and staff. It will serve a diverse cohort from across a variety of departments, disciplines, and functions. To be eligible for the program, nominees must hold a supervisory and/or leadership position and aspire to a higher-level leadership position during their careers.
The first program cohort began on October 4th, 2023, and will run until March 13th, 2024. Most sessions are held from 9 am to 1 pm. If selected, participants must be able to commit to attending all seven of the program sessions. The following table details session content for FY24.
Our Funding Partner
| Session: Topic | Date | Presenter(s) |
| Session 1: Introduction: Opening/Welcoming | Oct 4, 2023 | |
| Session 2: Change Management | Oct 25, 2023 | Susan Roberts & Jessica Sabourin |
| Session 3: Building Organizational Learning Cultures | Nov 15, 2023 | Sarah Stanlick |
| Session 4: Understanding Institutional and Industry Trends | Dec 6, 2023 | Kimberly LeChasseur & Paula Fitzpatrick |
| Session 5: The Art of Communication | Jan 24, 2024 | Theona Scola & Karen Oates |
| Session 6: Inclusive and Equity-Minded Leadership | Feb 14, 2024 | Lauren Turner & Bwann Kellie Gwann |
| Session 7: Closing Celebration: Action Plans & Next Steps | Mar 13, 2024 |
Nominations
Program cohorts are established via a two-phase process of nominations and applications. Employees are invited to nominate themselves or colleagues. Nominations can be submitted using an online form [currently inactive].
A selection committee reviews nominations that have been submitted and notifies nominees on a rolling basis if they are invited to apply to the program.
Please note that space in program cohorts is limited; therefore, employees are encouraged to submit nominations as soon as possible. Nominations are due no later than EOD September 1st.
Applications
If invited to apply following their nomination, candidates will receive a link to the application form. After an applicant submits their form, the selection committee will review it and notify them of their status in this year’s program no later than the last week of September.
Questions? Feedback?
For questions or more information about the program, contact Talent & Inclusion (508-831-6783), Learning & Development (Learning@wpi.edu), or any of WLP Planning Committee Members: Christopher Benoit, Terri Camesano, James De León, Paula Fitzpatrick, Bwann Kellie Gwann, Kimberly LeChasseur, Karen Oates, Anne Ogilvie, Ellen Piccioli, Sue Roberts, Jessica Sabourin, Theona Scola, Sarah Stanlick, and Lauren Turner.