Jan 28: Campaign communications reflect not just a candidate's resume or talking points, but rather a 'value statement.' On top of that, an effective strategy considers 1/timing 2/context 3/platform and 4/media relationships. Pictured: Karen Finney, Megan Whittemore and WPI ED Betsy Fischer Martin. Read More
Dec 10: We introduced the WeLead2023 Fundraising Challenge and explored the fundamentals of fundraising with Heather Colburn, State Representative Lisa Borowski (PA-168), WeLead2017 alum Nicole Tardif and NARAL's Neisha Blandin. According to Colburn, "Fundraising is nothing more than inviting other people to make the world a better place." Borowski (pictured left) agreed saying, "You're raising money to make a difference." Read More
Nov 19: Amanda Hunter presented research that women running for office should focus their messaging on 1/Issue Knowledge and 2/Qualifications. Later in the Campaign Manager panel, China Dickerson added that women candidates will be successful if they are "authentic, confident, and do the work." Read More
About WeLead
Top Political Practitioners
Learn from and engage with elected officials and leading experts in campaign management, communications, fundraising, grassroots mobilization, polling, advertising and digital media. Pictured left: WeLead Alumnae Melissa Sullivan, Sarah Rovito, Zandria Haines, Erika Dyer, WPI Executive Director Betsy Fischer Martin, and Alexandra Weinroth.
Professional Career Development
Sharpen leadership skills through interactive sessions on personal branding, resume building, effective mentorships and public speaking. Professional development coach Lisa Montenegro is featured in this photo.
Record of Success
Engage with our network of 600 WeLead graduates through our program. Our alums occupy the halls of Congress, campaign war rooms, K Street offices, state legislatures, city councils and corporate boardrooms across the country. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser (SPA/MPP '00) shares her experience running for office.
Designed for Working Professionals
Our competitive application process limits our class size to a select group of 30-40 accomplished post-graduates. Mindful of professional obligations, our six day-long training sessions are held on Saturdays at American University in Northwest Washington, DC. WeLead Alumna Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL) addresses graduating women of the WeLead program. Full Story
Staying Power: Strategies for Women Incumbents
Women incumbents face specific challenges when running for reelection. New research from the Barbara Lee Family Foundation shows that voters think highly of women who own their achievements and stand up to critics.
WeLead Reader
A curated newsletter, delivered to inboxes on Saturday mornings, readers can catch up on a week’s worth of important new developments about women running for office, serving as leaders and engaging in the political arena.
Gender on the Ballot Newsletter
Stay up-to-date on all the latest news + gender analysis in politics.
WPI Newsletter
Sign up for the WPI Newsletter to view recent highlights and learn about upcoming opportunities and events.