Women’s Leadership Academy

Women's Leadership Academy logo

The Women’s Leadership Academy (WLA) is dedicated to empowering, enriching, and embracing women in our region, facilitating their leadership development.

Preparing women for a lifetime of leadership.

As women, we’re often the steady foundation—balancing care, wisdom, and strength in every part of life, from the boardroom to the classroom. These leadership qualities might feel second nature, but they deserve to be recognized, nurtured, and celebrated.

That’s where the Women’s Leadership Academy (WLA) steps in. WLA is crafted for women in Central Arkansas who are ready to embrace their unique leadership journey and make an impact in their workplaces, communities, and beyond. Whether you’re leading a team, a classroom, or a movement, WLA offers an empowering space to grow your skills and confidence alongside a supportive network of like-minded women.

Join us for expert-led workshops, interactive experiences, and opportunities to shape a future where leadership reflects inclusivity, equity, and excellence—all while staying true to who you are.

Leadership-Focused Sessions

Over the course of 6 months, you’ll explore the fundamentals of leadership, identify your leadership style, and discover how to use your influence to make an impact. Throughout the program, we’ll cover 6 leadership-focused sessions across various community sectors.

Leadership

Explore the fundamentals of leadership, identify their leadership style, and understand the benefits of each style through various experiences.

Education

Learn more about leadership in Pre-K – K12 education, higher education, private education, and adult education programs for students with different abilities, and see educational practices’ impact on our community. 

Government

Understand local and state government leadership, including finding a voice for advocating, running for office, and even finding opportunities for authority beyond institutional power. 

Business

Witness leadership in business and technology through innovation centers and other local workforce resources. Learn more about imposter syndrome and opportunities like branding and self-advocacy. 

Community Development

Review aspects of leadership in community development, human services, and the nonprofit sector. 

Healthcare

Examine aspects of leadership in the healthcare field and mental health care, self-care, and advocacy roles in caring for others. 

Three women in fancy dress presenting from a stage
Guest seated at table smiling
Registration table with "check in here" sign and someone making a silly face
Two women posing in front of WLA balloon arch

FAQs

What can I expect in WLA?

  • 2-day retreat in January 2025
  • 5 Leadership-focused sessions (Feb-June)
  • A graduation ceremony in July
  • Featured publications on social media
  • Community Service Project
  • Opportunity to help shape this new leadership network
  • Exposure to leadership in our community
  • Alumni Networking
  • Preference at WLN Events

What makes WLA unique?

  • Women Centric
  • Personal and professional leadership development
  • Community Service Project
  • Nomination and selection process, including interview 

What is the cost to attend?

The enrollment fee for the 2025 Women’s Leadership Academy is $350.00. Scholarships are available, and you may indicate your interest in applying for a scholarship on the WLA Application Form. Undergraduate student participants selected will automatically receive a scholarship to attend.