WeLead2027 Application Open

If you are ready to explore the next step in your professional and political journey, the Women & Politics Institute's nonpartisan WeLead training program is for you! For over 20 years, WeLead has successfully trained participants to run for office or lead a political campaign. WPI is dedicated to closing the gender gap in the political arena and is proud to offer our WeLead program to accepted applicants at no cost.
APPLY TODAY

WeLead successfully positions participants to serve in a political leadership position. With a special emphasis on understanding the latest research on the challenges and opportunities that women face in running for office, we provide all members of the WeLead cohort with the confidence and skills to run for office or run a campaign through a combination of tactical skills, and best practices in Communications, Fundraising, and Campaign Management. WeLead also provides an expansive and supportive network of expert practitioners and alumni. Pictured: WeLead2026 Graduation (top) and WeLead2026 Graduation speaker U.S. Representative Lizzie Fletcher (TX-8). 

The We Lead training program is open to all post-graduates, regardless of race, color, gender, or national origin.

Gender on the Ballot

Gender on the Ballot is a nonpartisan project of AU’s Women & Politics Institute that examines and contextualizes gender dynamics in American politics. Originally co-founded by WPI and the Barbara Lee Family Foundation in 2019, Gender on the Ballot contributes to the dialogue on gender and politics through accessible content from experts and practitioners.

Fall 2026 WPPL Courses

These core courses are being offered in Fall 2026 for the Women, Policy and Political Leadership (WPPL) Undergraduate and Graduate Certificate Programs. View all WPPL courses here and learn more about the certificate program here.

WPI 'Women on Wednesdays' Recaps

Check out all event recaps here, or visit our YouTube channel to watch full replays of previous events. 

May 6: Atima Omara, political strategist, organizer, and advocate, discussed her new book, The Instigators: How Black Women Have Been Essential to American Democracy (And What We Can Learn From Them), with WPI Exec. Director Betsy Fischer Martin. Watch the full replay here.

Mar. 25: Closing out Women’s History Month, Emily Lampkin discussed her new book, Duct Tape and White Lies: A Woman's Practical Guide to Real Life Success, which provides an empowering guide to help women grow in their careers, communities, and lives, with WPI Exec. Dir. Betsy Fischer Martin. Watch the full replay here.

Mar. 18:  Dr. Mona Lena Krook of Rutgers University, will discussed her new book, Elect Women for a Change: The Path to Gender Parity in Politics, which makes a clear and compelling case for why gender parity in politics still matters and how it can be achieved. Watch the full replay here.