CState women participated in leadership institute

Apr 24, 2024

Since 2003, the Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (WILD) has partnered with institutions throughout the tristate region to support women faculty, staff members, and administrators in developing their personal abilities and assisting their colleges and universities by bringing new knowledge and skills back to their institutions.

The 2023-24 cohort of WILD participants–23 women from eight institutions–celebrated with a graduation ceremony at Cincinnati State’s Summit Restaurant on April 17.

Speakers included President Monica Posey, who was a founding member of WILD, and Career Center Director Kelly Harper, who serves on the WILD Steering Committee.

Cincinnati State participants in the cohort were Ali Godel, Associate Dean of Health & Public Safety, and Crissy Ross, Director of the Library.

Cohort activities included engaging with speakers, group discussions, and reflection on topics including discovering individual strengths, the power of mentoring, cultural humility, self-care in leadership, and more.

Ali said, “The experience of WILD underscored the power of women leaders in higher education. Highlights included identifying and developing my unique strengths, as well as collaborating with my peers from across the region. I absolutely loved every moment!”

Crissy said, “WILD was a very meaningful experience for me. Leadership can be incredibly isolating, and the WILD cohort provided a year of insight, support, and comradery with other women in similar positions. We tackled a lot of complicated issues together, including change management, crucial conversations, mindfulness, and self-care. I am grateful for the opportunity.”  

Recruitment for the 2024-25 WILD Cohort will begin in summer 2024. If you’re interested in being considered, contact Kelly Harper (kelly.harper@cincinnatistate.edu).

  • Workshop sessions typically are held on the third Wednesday of each month from September to April.
  • Most sessions will be held in person, but the December and January sessions will be virtual.
  • Sessions include a speaker, group activities, and networking opportunities.

During the past 19 years, more than 440 women from a dozen regional institutions have participated in the WILD program. Nearly 50 Cincinnati State employees have participated, including:

  • Tomie Gartland
  • Angela Haensel
  • Kelly Hubbard
  • CJ Jones
  • Myra Justus
  • Angelica Kennedy
  • Sue Kowalski
  • Tammie Larkins
  • Sarah Leggesse
  • Janice Lockett
  • Kim McMillian
  • Jackie Norton
  • Barb Ratliff
  • Denise Rohr
  • Janet Schlaak
  • Stephanie Stafford
  • Tara Sword