WLI
WLI is an expression of the University of Montana’s commitment to leadership development and effort to build empowering institutions that improve opportunities for employees. 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 employees' advancement in leadership.
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 UM employees.
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
2025-2026 Update
We know many people are eager to apply for the next Women’s Leadership Initiative cohort, and we want to share an update. We’ve decided to pause the program this year as we evaluate its future direction and identify strategies for long-term sustainability.
While we pause this year to plan and consider, we remain committed to honoring what the WLI means to our university community and finding ways to retain its most impactful elements. We also will be exploring ways to open participation in leadership development opportunities to a broader audience. Finally, we will spend this time developing a sustainable funding model to support the program in its new form.