Advancing Opportunities for Women’s Leadership in Information Technology
Statement of Commitment, Adopted June 12, 2024
NWACC’s mission is to foster communication and collaboration among its member institutions, cultivate technology leaders, share professional expertise, and enhance the use of technology for instruction, research, and operations. In alignment with this mission, NWACC Council members assert that diversity in leadership is essential and commit to creating opportunities that support the advancement of women within the field of information technology.
The model for delivering high quality learning experiences in higher education is changing and technology is an increasingly important component of remaining competitive and delivering on the expectations of students, faculty, and staff. Progress has been made but women, especially women of color, remain underrepresented in executive positions within academia. Leadership that reflects the communities they serve are better positioned to attract and retain a talented workforce capable of advancing their institution’s strategic goals and fully promoting organizational values.
As Council members, we will increase opportunities, create paths for professional development, and reduce barriers to women’s full participation in technology professions within our institutions and throughout the broader technology industry.
Areas of Focus
- Expand awareness. Provide mentorship training for IT leaders; invite women to share professional experiences
- Reduce barriers. Identify and engage potential leaders early in their career; provide equitable access to leadership development; establish formal mentorship, sponsorship, and allyship efforts.
- Increase opportunities. Solicit the participation of women in speaking engagements; coordinate events that provide meaningful opportunities for women in IT to build community; assist women with participating in established networks; develop programming for professional development.
- Create inclusive work environments. Amplify women’s voices and inspire others by highlighting the work and words of IT leaders who are committed to women’s advancement; accelerate the creation of equitable work environments by identifying and changing institutional policies and practices that create barriers to women’s advancement; promote the well-being of women.
NWACC CIO Council members recognize the need for intentional and active practices that promote the well-being and advancement of women in IT leadership. Concerted efforts in these areas of focus will leverage the experience of women and their allies to create a pipeline for women’s leadership positions. The Advancing Women in IT Leadership initiative is a crucial first step in our broader effort to address the underrepresentation of all groups and create future IT leaders. We aim to set an example and pave the way for greater diversity and equity across all groups in IT