The American Council on Education (ACE) Women’s Virginia Network will be holding its 2026 Annual Conference, “Navigating Rough Waters” on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Fuse at Mason Square in Arlington, VA. The conference is a full day format that provides leadership development and capacity building for women.
Call for Proposals
The ACE Virginia Network is seeking proposals for the 2026 Annual Conference that will engage women leaders in higher education and help build their networks in times of uncertainty, challenge, and change. With a focus on leadership skills, persistence, and transformation, organizers are looking for personal experiences, advice and success stories to empower others to chart their own course while “Navigating Rough Waters”. Sessions will be 45 minutes in length and should actively engage participants and/or allow time for networking and/or Q&A. Session proposals should include learning objectives and fit into one of the following areas:
“Navigating the Storm: Steering Teams Through Change and Crisis” - Guiding teams through crisis, uncertainty, or transformation
“The Unsinkable Leader: Thriving Through Transitions and Turbulence” - Managing transitions, setbacks, or burnout with purpose and confidence.
“Charting New Courses: Shaping Higher Education’s Future in Dynamic Seas” - Re-imagining teaching, service, or administration in shifting higher education landscapes
“Anchors and Bridges: Fostering Networks in the Waves of Change” - Building networks of support and solidarity across institutions and/or career stages.
“The Inner Lighthouse: Guiding Mental Health in High Tides” - Illuminating mental health, work-life balance (for all career and life stages), and self-care amid professional challenges.
“Ethical Compass: Finding True North in Turbulent Times” - Making principled decisions in complex or conflicting contexts.
Proposals must be submitted online by Friday, March 20, 2026.
Mason’s two Institutional Representatives (IRs) include Dr. Eunkyoung Park (Office of Institutional Effectiveness and Planning) and Dr. Michele Schwietz (College of Humanities and Social Sciences). In addition, Dr. Gesele Dunham is on the Board of Directors.
March 02, 2026