August 22, 2024
Announcing the Launch of the WLE Emerging State Executives Network
WASHINGTON, D.C. — As states prepare for pivotal shifts in education leadership driven by upcoming gubernatorial elections, Women Leading Ed, the largest national nonprofit of women in education leadership, announces the launch of WLE Emerging State Executives Network, a groundbreaking and highly-selective initiative designed to identify, invest in, and elevate the next generation of women state education leaders at State Education Agencies (SEAs) across the country.
Not just about leadership development, this exclusive program for aspiring state executives is about shaping the future of education across the nation by empowering women to step into top roles and drive enduring change. The highly selective, inaugural cohort will support a group of women currently or previously in SEA and local district roles interested in advancing to senior executive state-level positions. Through powerful experiences and exposure to the top leaders in the field, selected participants will have the opportunity to strengthen their leadership and build a robust network of colleagues and peers along the way.
“Women in education leadership are powering transformational change every single day, but the path to impactful leadership on the state level is full of roadblocks,” said Dr. Julia Rafal-Baer, founder and CEO of Women Leading Ed.
“The reality of gender inequality in education leadership and the political challenges that state leaders face are pronounced. But with the right experience, skill development, and support, women in these positions advance critical policy change, systemic improvements, and strategic initiatives that drive student success and strengthen schools and communities. WLE ESE will provide those experiences, sharpen those key skills, and deliver exactly the support women who are in or aspire to be in state leadership need to realize their biggest bets and improve entire education systems for the long-term.”
WLE ESE is seeking dedicated and proven women leaders who are ready to step into high-level SEA positions. Participants will receive free lifelong membership in the Women Leading Ed network, admittance to the Forum for Educational Leadership, enrollment in a cohort-based SEA Network Community of Practice, and intensive one-on-one coaching and individualized support from exceptional leaders.
For more information or to nominate a rising state leader, visit https://www.womenleadinged.org/emerging-state-executives.
More about Dr. Julia Rafal Baer
The driving force behind this new program, Dr. Julia Rafal-Baer, is a distinguished leader in education with a formidable two-decade career marked by creating and leading initiatives that have profoundly impacted nearly every student nationwide. Her leadership in founding and implementing transformative programs such as Women Leading Ed, the Forum for Educational Leadership, Future Chiefs and Women in Leadership has shaped the landscape of education leadership across the United States. Dr. Rafal-Baer serves on numerous boards, including her appointment to the National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB) by the U.S. Secretary of Education. Her work has been spotlighted by leading media outlets, and she is frequently invited to speak at national forums, legislative bodies, and educational conferences across the country.
More about Women Leading Ed
Women Leading Ed (WLE) is the largest national nonprofit network of women in education leadership. WLE is committed to supporting and advancing female education leadership through research, advocacy, and engagement with women at every stage of their leadership journeys. Women Leading Ed is taking on the big challenges facing our field and building a dynamic network within which leaders collaborate. Women Leading Ed is committed to fearlessly advocating for greater representation of women in education leadership, and shaping the public dialogue about gender equality in leadership more broadly using research and storytelling.
What Top Women in Education Leaders Are Saying About WLE ESE
Dr. Kyla Johnson-Trammell, Superintendent of Oakland Unified School District, Women Leading Ed Board Chair:
“As board chair of Women Leading Ed, I have seen firsthand the essential way that WLE cultivates the kind of leadership our systems need–today and going forward. WLE ESE will help ensure that more women are in position to deliver the strong, visionary leadership we need at the state level, ultimately taking on the highest roles, and driving lasting change.”
Dr. Susana Córdova, Colorado Commissioner of Education:
“The WLE Emerging State Executives Network is not just an initiative; it's aimed at building a real movement. It's about empowering women to rise into leadership roles where they can positively advance state education policies. By investing in the next generation of state leaders, we help secure the future of our schools and students.”
Angélica Infante-Green, Rhode Island Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education:
“The WLE ESE is a game-changer for women in education leadership, those already working at the state level and those who aspire to enter SEA roles. It offers an unparalleled opportunity for these emerging leaders to gain the skills and support they need to overcome challenges and champion meaningful change. The ripple effects of this initiative will be felt across the nation as these leaders step into their power.”
Kirsten Baesler, North Dakota State Superintendent of Public Instruction:
“Leading at the state level demands resilience, sound judgment, and a robust network of trusted colleagues. The WLE ESE program offers exactly that—a solid foundation for women to develop their leadership skills and take on greater responsibilities with confidence. I'm excited to see how this program will inspire and equip women to drive the next wave of educational innovation.”
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