Nomination Information

The Women’s Leadership Institute at Auburn University invites you and others at your institution to submit the names of up to three outstanding female undergraduate students to be considered for admission to the 2010 Institute at Auburn University beginning September 2009. The Auburn University Women's Leadership Institute is a member of the national network of NEW (National Education for Women) Leadership Institutes developed by The Center for American Women and Politics of Rutgers University. WLI contributes to the achievement of a truly representative democracy that will improve the lives of women, men and children, in Alabama and beyond. It is particularly interested in identifying women who have a strong leadership potential and a desire to be involved in public life.

This enriching five-day residential program at Auburn University seeks to prepare a new generation of women leaders with vision and courage, who will go on to participate effectively in the decision-making spheres in business, politics, and the professions. By providing participants an opportunity to sharpen their leadership skills, Auburn University is taking a proactive step to close the gender gap in society and to address the under-representation of women in legislative assemblies and corporate boardrooms. AU WLI is contributing to the achievement of a truly representative democracy that will improve the lives of women, men and children, in our state, region, and beyond.

The innovative Auburn University Women’s Leadership Institute curriculum is based upon three concepts: envisioning, educating and empowering young women. Participants learn the substance of active involvement in public life and are presented with a clear vision of ethical and effective political activism. As future leaders, they develop a broad range of skills, including advocacy, debating, fund-raising, negotiating, networking, organizational and time management skills, public speaking, public relations, and team work. Trainers also guide students in the creation of an action project based on a current social issue or problem, using mobilizing strategies and techniques to influence a positive outcome. We will spend one day at the Alabama state Capitol where students will learn about the legislative process, meet women in government, and the governor will proclaim the day as “Women’s Leadership Day”.

In addition to learning from an outstanding variety of guest speakers, participants benefit from day-to-day contact with Faculty-in-Residence (FIRs) who live with the students throughout the week and serve as mentors and role models. Over meals and in the dorms, these inspiring leaders provide both formal and informal interaction with students, give them insight into different styles of leadership, and expose them to both the public and private sides of a woman’s life as a leader. FIRs are selected not only for their political and professional achievements, but also for their excellent communication skills, and their ability to relate easily to women of all ages.

Each biannual session of WLI will welcome approximately 30 women recruited from among the most promising undergraduate students all over the southeastern US. The AU Women’s Leadership Institute seeks applicants from diverse backgrounds and institutions, regardless of field of study. Thanks to the generosity of Auburn University and many individual and corporate donors, the major cost of the Institute is subsidized: lodging, food, and instructional materials are provided free of charge. The only expense to students is a $500.00 program fee and their transportation to and from Auburn University.

More information about the 2010 program coming in the future.