Inspired by a financial challenge from members of the Board of Trustees, Susquehanna University launched the Women’s Leadership Initiative in 2017.

The initiative supports a robust, four-year preparation plan for every female student — nearly 1,300 — that includes career treks to major cities and job-shadowing experiences that connect them with Susquehanna alumni. Additionally, the initiative provides opportunities for students to attend professional conferences and to secure summer research, internships or other experiential learning opportunities.


Women’s Leadership Fund

The Women’s Leadership Initiative is supported by the 个年代. 盖茨71年 and Dawn G. Mueller ’68 Women’s Leadership Fund, which was endowed in 2019 and connects female students with alumnae who inspire them to pursue leadership positions within their chosen fields.

盖茨71年, chair of the university Board of Trustees, and Mueller ’68, board vice chair, launched the fundraising campaign in 2017 with a combined $1 million pledge to provide financial support to female students at Susquehanna University. Their commitment was contingent on a challenge to other donors to contribute an additional $2 million. The challenge was met three years ahead of schedule, after receiving additional significant support from Judy Hanson Mathis in memory of her mother, Marjorie C. Hanson ’39, as well as from Mary Cianni, vice chair of the Board of Trustees, former Susquehanna associate professor of management and senior client partner at Korn Ferry.

Women’s Leadership Symposium

Susquehanna University hosts an annual Women’s Leadership Symposium where nominated female students have a hands-on opportunity to build practical experiences from women business leaders who are Susquehanna graduates.

Alumnae share their experiences as corporate professionals, conduct tours and answer students’ questions. With up-close and personal access to business leaders, plus personalized feedback and advice, students enjoy invaluable networking experiences.

The 2025 symposium will head to New York on March 19–20, 2025. Activities include a keynote address, networking sessions, visits to local employers and cultural experiences followed by an alumnae networking reception.

SEE PHOTOS OF LAST YEAR’S SYMPOSIUM

Women’s Leadership Initiative Panel

Since 2018, the Women’s Leadership Initiative panel discussion features alumnae who have made significant contributions to their chosen fields and industries.

Past panel discussion topics have included succeeding in business and medicine and maintaining leadership under pressure and celebrating authenticity. This year’s panel discussion, Bettering Our Communities to Better the World, will be held on Monday, September 16 at 5:30 p.m. in the Shearer Weber 餐厅 Room. Alumnae panelists include:

  • Eryn Spangler ’14
  • Caitlin Newman ’09 Thistle
  • Rachel Wiest-Benner ’97

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SEE PHOTOS OF LAST YEAR’S PANEL