WeLead Alumni Spotlight
Rhonda Everdyke Destino
President, The Rochester Commissary, WeLead2007
American University's WeLead campaign training program in the School of Public Affairs successfully positions young professional women to serve in a political leadership position. Meeting over six months, we provide participants with the confidence and skills to run for office or run a campaign through a combination of research, tactical skills, and best practices in Communications, Fundraising, Campaign Management and more. WeLead also provides an expansive and supportive network of expert practitioners and alumni. Please join us in our important work to close the gender gap in political leadership.
Learn More About WeLead
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. WeLead Program Manager Julie Russell and WPI Executive Director Betsy Fischer Martin join WeLead2023 Graduation speakers former Congresswoman Mimi Walters (CA-45) and Montgomery County, MD Councilmember Kate Stewart.
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.
Professional Career Development
Sharpen leadership skills through interactive sessions on personal branding, resume building, effective mentorships and public speaking. Be the Brand founder Madeline Fetterly, digital expert Lyndsey Fifield and WPI Executive Director Betsy Fischer Martin congratulate the winners of the WeLead2023 Fundraising Challenge.
Designed for Working Professionals
Our competitive application process limits our class size to a select group of accomplished post-graduates. Mindful of professional obligations, our six day-long training sessions are held on weekends at American University in Northwest Washington, DC. WeLead Alumna Representative Lauren Underwood (D-IL) addresses WeLead2019 graduates. Full Story
WeLead Speaker Spotlight
Christine Matthews
President, Bellwether Research & Consulting
The Challenges and Opportunities Facing Women Lt. Governors
Most voters believe Lieutenant Governors are qualified to serve as Governor—and that the office prepares women candidates to serve as Governor. In that way, the path forward is clear.
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.
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.