2016 San Francisco Women in Leadership Symposium

History

The first Women in Leadership Symposium was presented by the Texas Diversity Council in March of 2004 in San Antonio, Texas. The event was well attended with approximately 110 people participating in the panel session format geared toward the discussion of topics relevant to issues facing women as they sought and achieved higher positions within their organizations.

Today, more than 15 symposiums have been presented by the Texas, California and Florida Diversity Councils on an annual basis with more than 100 panelists and 80 corporate sponsors participating. With each event, overall attendance and interest has increased among the cities in which each has been held. Attendees such as executives, directors, diversity officers, managers and human resource professionals have all applauded the efforts of the event helping to expand women’s opportunities for leadership and increasing their visibility in the community.

In July of 2008, the overall success of the symposiums in its brief history prompted the National Diversity Council to create the National Women in Leadership Symposium website and to venture out across the nation to present the symposium to additional cities giving them the opportunity to showcase the exceptional women leaders in their communities.

Vision

The vision of the National Women in Leadership Symposium is to develop a network of nationwide annual events and to be the premier resource for women to be able to network, mentor and participate in professional development programs geared toward helping them rise in their careers.

Mission

The mission of the National Women in Leadership Symposium is to bring together a diverse mix of successful women leaders who, through the discussion of topics relevant to today’s issues, educate, inspire and encourage women to reflect on their own goals and status as they strive to move higher in their organizations.

This year's theme: "Secure Your Place at the Table"