Leading with Courage, Influencing with Integrity, and Speaking with Power
Across educational service agencies (ESAs), women are leading at every level, from executives and Chiefs of Staff to Executive Assistants, department leaders, and those driving critical work across their agencies. They are guiding teams, shaping strategy, managing complex priorities, supporting organizational leadership, and moving important initiatives forward. Their roles may look different, but each offers opportunities to influence, lead, and make an impact.
The AESA Academy for Women Leaders brings together accomplished women from across the ESA community who are ready to strengthen their leadership voice, expand their influence, and lead with greater confidence and purpose.
This immersive leadership experience creates space to step away from the demands of the day-to-day, reflect on how you lead, learn alongside women navigating similar opportunities and challenges, and build relationships with peers from across the country.
What to Expect
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One Cohort of women ESA executives from across the country
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2 In-Person Retreats (October & March)
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3 Virtual Sessions (90 minutes each)
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Executive Coaching/Thought Partnership (up to 5 hours)
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Special Meetup at the Annual Conference & Expo
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Tangible Takeaways: Leadership tools, curated books, and resources
Who Should Participate
The Academy is designed for women with significant leadership responsibilities who are ready to grow their impact and influence.
Participants may include executive and cabinet leaders, Chiefs of Staff, executive assistants, department and division leaders, and women leading key functions, strategic initiatives, or one-person departments.
Your title doesn’t define the scope of your leadership.
2026-2027 Schedule
October 5–7, 2026 | In-Person Retreat | Louisville, KY
November 12, 2026 | Virtual Session | 2:00-3:30 pm ET
December 2026 (exact date TBD) | In-Person Gathering | Annual Conference & Expo (Orlando, FL)
February 1, 2027 | Virtual Session | 2:00-3:30 pm ET
March 8–10, 2027 | In-Person Retreat | St Louis, MO
April 28, 2027 | Virtual Session | 2:00-3:30 pm ET
Want a Deeper Look?
We’ve created an overview of the program to help you explore the themes, sessions, and outcomes in more detail.
Ready to lead with purpose and power?
This Academy for Women Leaders is designed to support your whole leadership journey—with time to reflect, grow, connect, and recharge alongside other exceptional women in ESA leadership.
First time registering? Complete the Membership Portal Account Form to activate your individual membership.
For more information about this program, contact:
Ann Fiene
Chief of Staff
Email