IWL celebrates anniversary

The Institute for Women’s Leadership (IWL), founded by a Bennie with the support of Associate Provost for Student Success Mary Geller, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. From its inception, the organization has sought to challenge traditional notions of leadership and elevate the voices of those historically marginalized within academic and professional spheres.

“Celebrating 20 years is a feat that most organizations on campus do not get to celebrate. We are proud and thankful for all the Bennies throughout the years who carried the legacy and work of the IWL,” IWL staff member Dana Alcalá said via email.

Since its creation, the IWL has accomplished and maintained many goals and continues to generate new ones. This is thanks to the countless Bennies who have dedicated themselves to advancing their mission over the years.

“We have continued to do our work, and we only continue to expand,” Alcalá said.

Over the years, and since its creation, the IWL has made many accomplishments and has continued to uphold its goals as well as create new ones along the way.

The goal of the IWL is to promote woman leaders on campus, even if the image of what a woman is has changed, the goal remains the same, to provide opportunities, confidence, and a voice to woman. Through a myriad of initiatives, events and programming, the IWL has sought to provide women with the tools, resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in their academic and professional endeavors.

The goal of the IWL is to promote female leaders on campus.

“Even if the image of what a woman is has changed, our goal remains the same: to provide opportunities, confidence, and a voice to women.” Alcalá said.

One of the hallmarks of the IWL’s journey has been its commitment to inclusivity and intersectionality. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals at the intersections of gender, race, class, sexuality and other identities, the organization has worked to create spaces and opportunities that center the experiences and perspectives of all members of the campus community.

Among the many accomplishments of the IWL are its annual events and initiatives, which have become popular among students.

“One of the most important highlights of the IWL is our series ‘—— is a Feminist Issue’ that offers perspectives on various issues that are not seen as a feminist issue on the surface,” Alcalá said. “We also have Sex, milk and cookies which is a popular event due to the inclusion and depth of the conversations.”

Another highlight of the IWL is its efforts of collaborating with the institution and addressing The Pat Hall incidents. The IWL has worked to unite students from both campuses, staff and faculty.

“We focused on being on the same side of reforming our school for the betterment of the future,” Alcalá said.

As the IWL looks toward the future, the organization seeks to expand its reach and impact through interdisciplinary collaborations, partnerships with other campus organizations and innovative programming that addresses the multifaceted challenges facing women today.

In celebration of Women’s Month, the IWL has curated a diverse array of events and activities aimed at engaging and empowering female-identifying students. From affinity spaces and art exhibitions to keynote speakers and recreational outings, the organization’s programming reflects its ongoing commitment to creating inclusive spaces where all Bennies can thrive.

“We hope that Bennies will find themselves included in our events and activities,” Alcalá said.