Programs

NEW Leadership Illinois develops women to be leaders in public service careers.

Leadership Education

Participants are led through the process of understanding their own leadership qualities and gaining new leadership skills, including how to negotiate for a desired outcome, communicate effectively, work in diverse environments, and handle ethical dilemmas.

Policy Skills

Faculty from the University of Illinois conduct workshops in "Politics 101" with an Illinois focus, in policy analysis skills, and in current substantive policy issues.

Political Savvy

Students learn first hand what it means to serve in public office. Women leaders, including current and former women legislators, other elected and appointed officials, and political campaign staff, serve as mentors in the program, speaking in keynotes, panels and roundtable discussions. Students also see policy in action by visiting government offices, such as the James R. Thompson Center, during the week.

Several women leaders live in the dorms with the students, participating in the week's events and providing numerous opportunities for informal conversations with students.

Active Learning

The program is structured for active learning. Activities throughout the sessions allow students to engage with the material and with the faculty and speakers in a fun and collegial atmosphere. This culminates in a group policy analysis project, in which students practice their new skills and present their findings in a mock legislative hearing.