Women's Leadership Initiative

The Women’s Leadership Initiative (WLI) is an expression of the University of Montana’s commitment to gender equity in leadership and effort to build empowering institutions that improve opportunities for women. Founded in 2015, the initiative uses a cohort model to build the leadership capacity of faculty, administrators, and staff from both inside and outside the university.

WLI cohort members participate in leadership trainings; spend dedicated time with campus, community, and state leaders; and lead community events to build awareness of the cultural factors that both impede and enhance women’s advancement in leadership.

People

The Women’s Leadership Initiative is part of the University of Montana's S.E.A. Change Initiative and serves mid-career employees at the University of Montana. 

The 2023-2024 WLI cohort will be led by Charity Atteberry, Assistant Dean of Students - Student Success, Director of Student Services, and Registrar in the Alexander Blewett III School of Law at UM. 

Impact

WLI empowers cohort members to identify personal strengths and areas for growth relative to leadership roles, and articulate their vision and goals for their career paths. Cohort members expand and deepen their networks, develop and enhance professional relationships, and build bridges across organizations.

As an initiative, WLI works toward change (in systems, processes, and culture) to build empowering institutions that improve leadership opportunities for women.

In the community, WLI has built a network of allies, supporters, and mentors to empower women. A partnership with Clearwater Credit Union has helped create an important bridge between the University of Montana and the broader Missoula community.

Student Reaction to a WLI Panel and Discussion Organized by WLI Participants

The WLI forum shifted—if not changed—my life... I internally realized that I do have the power and capability to shape my life. No longer will I dismiss the idea of empowerment as a phenomenon that happens to other people. I can feel empowered, and I am empowered.

Bethany Cramer, Microbiology student at UM

Apply

Applications for the 2023-2024 Women's Leadership Initiative Cohort are accepted through April 7, 2023.  See our WLI Application webpage for eligibility criteria and an online application. A new cohort of up to nine mid-career employees at UM will be selected in May and will convene from late August 2023 through early May 2024.

Questions

Direct requests for additional information and inquiries to WLI Program Coordinator Charity Atteberry at charity.atteberry@mso.umt.edu or (406) 243-2690.