WeLead Campaign Training Program

18 professional women hugging on outdoor stairs

Â鶹ÊÓƵ's WeLead campaign training program in the  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

four professional women standing alongside a WeLead banner

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.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser at podium

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.  

welead top fundraisers standing with exec director

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.

Lauren Underwood addressing WeLead graduates

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 Â鶹ÊÓƵ in Northwest Washington, DC. WeLead Alumna Representative Lauren Underwood (D-IL) addresses WeLead2019 graduates. Full Story

Gender on the Ballot Poll: She Votes 2024

She Votes: From Issues to Impact-Women's Voices Shaping the 2024 Agenda brings women's concerns and priorities into sharp view. Nearly half of all women say this will be the most important election of their lifetime - a 29% increase over 2023. 

Gender on the Ballot Newsletter

Stay up-to-date on all the latest news + gender analysis in politics.

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.

WPI Newsletter

Sign up for the WPI Newsletter to view recent highlights and learn about upcoming opportunities and events.