Leadership Institute

The power of women in leadership.

Leadership development is a core element of our mission and values, and for over 20 years, we have helped women become powerful leaders through education, connection, and mentorship. Our programming is designed to inspire and empower women leaders to lead where they land.

The Leadership Institute is a five day program offering a diverse curriculum to help develop leadership skills, personal and professional development, and civic engagement goals. The Institute is free of cost for participants.

This is a unique program that incorporates technologies to engage participates before, during, and after the five day in person program. Encouraging on going learning, supporting their engagement work, and offering mentorship and connection building.

Our 2025 Leadership Institute will be held from Monday, July 21 to Friday, July 25 at Bellevue College, Bellevue WA.

This year we are welcoming upper level high school and early college students to apply. Any student based in Washington State is welcome to apply, and the program is free of cost for participants. Applicants must be 18 or older. Full day sessions, materials, parking, breakfast, lunch, and snacks are all provided. Housing, transportation, and dinners are the responsibility of the participants.

We especially encourage young women from diverse backgrounds, and those who otherwise wouldn’t have the resources or opportunities to attend a leadership development program to apply.

How to Apply

Interested students can submit either a written or video application, chose the option you’re most comfortable with.

  1. Applications open on Monday, June 9

  2. Applications close on Monday, June 23

  3. Selected participants will be notified on Friday, June 30

  4. Pre-work will begin on Monday, July 7

  5. In-person five day program is from Monday, July 21 to Friday, July 25

If you have questions about the application process or application questions email info@womenanddemocracy.org.

Here’s what Leadership Alumna have to say about their experience:

““It opened up a terrific network for me. I was empowered by the amazing women I met.”

— Kristyna Larch, Attorney

“(The program) taught me to recognize the value of mentoring others.’’

— Gayatri Eassey, Former Special Assistant to Governor Gregoire

“(The program) taught me to recognize the value of mentoring others.’’

— Gayatri Eassey, Former Special Assistant to Governor Gregoire

“I always thought there was one specific path to follow…what I learned from all these different women is that they went in the direction of something that interested them. It was reassuring to learn that there is no one 'right way' to go about it.".”

— Nichole Shippen, Student