CALSA's Summer Institute 2026

This dynamic panel, presented on behalf of the Women Leadership Network, highlights the diverse and inspiring journeys of women leaders across the educational landscape. Through personal narratives and professional insights, panelists will explore the full arc of leadership—from early influences to executive roles—demonstrating how resilience, mentorship, and opportunity shape leadership pathways.
Panelists will share unique experiences, including the journey to becoming a superintendent, the transformative experience of a former Freedom Writers student who successfully bridged into leadership and advocacy, and a nontraditional pathway to leadership that challenges conventional norms. Each story reflects the power of perseverance, representation, and intentional support systems.