State Network Activities

State networks host a number of activities, events, and initiatives to support the IDEALS as core principles and the broader mission of the ACE Women’s Network. Here are a few examples of ways our state networks are engaging their members, women, and men as allies, throughout each state.

Conferences and Professional Development

​Conferences

Most state networks host an annual conference. These conferences provide opportunities for networking, professional development, personal and professional reflection, and meaningful interaction among women in higher education across their respective states.

Event Planning Checklist (PDF)

Networking and Professional Development Programs

Some state networks offer programs designed to facilitate networking among women within the state. The programs cover a variety of topics and address issues relevant to women and women’s leadership within higher education. Some programs are broad in nature while others may be designed with specific communities in mind, such as those for women who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community or women of color.

These may occur within various regions across the state or even at the campus level, generally in coordination with institutional representatives for that state network. Networking and professional development programs may take place in person or virtually as well.

Examples of networking and professional development programs hosted by some state networks include:

  • Speaker Series, highlighting women leaders within the state.
  • Meet and Greets to allow members of the state network to interact with one another.
  • Lunch Talks, during which a speaker may share on a particular theme or topic and participants will engage in some manner around that theme/topic.

Shadowing/Mentoring Programs

Networks may provide a shadow program whereby mid-level women aspiring toward senior-level positions can learn from mentors, gain diverse institutional perspectives, and develop knowledge to enhance their leadership capacity.

Scholarships and Awards

Scholarships

Some networks offer scholarships to assist with costs associated with educational attainment and professional development opportunities.

Awards and Special Recognition Initiatives

Many state networks offer awards to recognize women for accomplishments and leadership within their state. These awards often call public attention to the contribution that women leaders are making to higher education within the state.

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ACE Women's Network Directory

ACE encourages faculty and women administrators from across the country to join and participate in their state network events. ​

State Networks Directory

Moving the Needle Initiative

Through the Moving the Needle: Advancing Women in Higher Education Leadership initiative, ACE aims to bring national awareness to the importance of achieving gender parity and diversity in higher education leadership.

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