PATHWAYS TO LEADERSHIP

 

Apply Today To Be A Part of The 2025-2027 Cohort

While the application window has now closed, we will continue to consider applicants on a rolling basis through July 18, 2025. 

Program Description

Pathways to Leadership is a cohort-based program to support women in their choice to pursue headship. Over two years the program will support and develop senior leaders who are interested in becoming a Head of School in the next 3-5 years. As a participant, you will work with an assigned mentor and engage in a number of activities to support your professional growth. Pathways to Leadership will use the framework of the NWAIS standards to build your competencies in areas such as governance, school finance and leadership.

 

Background  

Pathways to Leadership was developed to explore and support the role of headship through the female lens. Now starting its 5th round, Pathways to Leadership is looking for its next group of leaders to take on the challenge of moving into independent school headship. 

Experienced NWAIS Heads of School have mentored and supported four cohorts of Pathways participants. This groups have all experienced tremendous success, with 30% of participants being appointed to headships, and everyone emerging with stronger networks and skills, ready to take on this challenging role.

 

Eligibility 

Pathways to Leadership will serve approximately 16 participants applying in Spring of 2025. The program will run from August 2025-May 2027. The application will help you and the selection committee assess if this is the right time in your career to take on this program. NWAIS is seeking a diverse and inclusive cohort and encourages those from underrepresented groups to apply.

If you are not sure you are ready for the Pathways to Leadership program, consider applying for the Emerging Leaders Program, a one-year, cohort-based program for leaders looking to take the next step on their leadership journey, but not yet considering headship.

While the program is open to all applicants the content will be most relevant to female-identified leaders aspiring to headship.

 

Application components

• Resume

• Cover letter addressing (in no more than 500 words):

• Cover letter addressing (in no more than 500 words):

• • Why you are applying to this program;

  • Your vision for the next 3-5 years of your career journey;

  • How you see yourself contributing to the richness of your cohort;

  • Areas you see the most potential for growth;

  • Questions you hope the program will engage in around diversity and equity.

• Endorsement from your current Head of School: an endorsement stipulates that the Head of School is aware you are applying and is supportive of your participation.

 

To Apply

Please use this link to submit your application materials

Please share this link with your Head of School for them to complete in support of your application

 

Timeline 

Applications are due May 1 and will be reviewed in May. Admitted participants will be notified by June 20.

While the application window has now closed, we will continue to consider applicants on a rolling basis through July 18, 2025. 

The program will launch with a required retreat, which will take place August 7, 2025 in Seattle and will continue through the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years.

Please note: The opening retreat is an important component of the launch of the cohort and attendance is required. Please save the date on your calendar now to ensure you are available.

 

Activities

Over the course of two years, participants will:

• Attend full-day opening retreats each year (August 7, 2025 and early August 2026 - exact date TBD) 

• Work with a mentor to self-assess, develop and carry out a professional growth plan for the duration of the program.

• Meet monthly in a combination of face-to-face and virtual sessions (see below for a calendar of events)

• Closing retreat and program finale (May 2027)

• Attend NWAIS conferences, including:

• Institutional Leadership Conference (November 2025)
  

• Leadership Institute (June 2026)

• Fall Educators Conference (October 2026)

• Building Better Boards Virtual Workshops (one per year).

• Meet with thought leaders such as: NWAIS Legal Team, CPA firms, sitting heads, trustees, and search consultants

• Serve on an accreditation team (as space allows)

The overall time investment will include six gatherings over the course of each year. These include experiences with mentors as well as the participation in the conferences. Some will take place in person and others virtually.