Whether it’s learning about the benefits of independent travel or how to broaden your leadership horizons, this year’s Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC) offers something for everyone.        

“The Women’s Leadership Conference has been noted as one of the best, if not the best, professional conferences faculty and staff can attend,” said Colleen Riggle, assistant dean of students and director of Georgia Tech’s Women’s Resource Center. “The conference offers an array of speakers, topics and workshops that apply to all members of the Georgia Tech community. It is also beneficial for students, faculty and staff to have this opportunity to interact and network over the course of two days.”

For 13 years, the WLC has brought women together to promote leadership. It is open to anyone — whether male or female — from Tech, the Atlanta area and beyond. The event is planned by Tech students who are advised by the Women’s Resource Center.

“I chose to become a part of the planning committee for the WLC because it’s the perfect opportunity for women from a variety of backgrounds to come together and celebrate exceptional achievements and learn new personal leadership skills,” said Megan Sweeney, a fourth year industrial engineering major and chair of the conference.

This year’s conference theme is “Horizons” and aims to broaden the personal, professional and global horizons of all attendees. The event will open on Nov. 2 at 5 p.m. on the third floor of the Student Center with a networking reception, dinner, recognition of the 60th anniversary of women at Tech and a keynote address from alumna Lara Hodgson.  

The 2012 Women of Distinction Awards will also be presented, with awards going to an outstanding faculty and staff member, alumna, and graduate and undergraduate student. 

The conference continues on Nov. 3 with breakfast and a keynote address from Ann Cramer, director for corporate citizenship and corporate affairs for the Americas at IBM.  The lunch keynote will be delivered by Tisha Tallman, president and CEO of the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. 

Participants will also have the opportunity to attend three breakout sessions. A few of the sessions that will be offered include:

• Sizing up Leaders: How Body Image and an Emphasis on Sizes Influences Women’s Leadership 
• Balance Matters: Creating a Life True to Oneself
• Best Practices for Imagining a Future of Feminist Leaders: The Social Change Model of Leadership
• The Benefits of Independent Travel

The cost is $15 for students and $30 for nonstudents. Email Riggle to register, or register on site at the conference. To learn click here.