2026 Leadership Program
March 25 – April 29, 2026 - Wednesdays - Virtual
Build your leadership skills. Expand your network. Move forward with intention.
NAWL’s six-week virtual Leadership Program is designed for mid-level legal professionals who are ready to take the next step, whether that’s pursuing partnership, stepping into a leadership role, or growing with more purpose in their current path.
Each week combines live sessions, small-group cohort discussions, and time for personal reflection. The programming focuses on core leadership development, with an emphasis on emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and other skills that support long-term growth. You’ll have the chance to learn, connect, and think strategically about what’s next—with the support of a cohort navigating similar career moments.
You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of your leadership style, stronger communication and decision-making skills, and a national network of peers who become a lasting source of advice, connection, and support—long after the program ends.
Registration will open in late 2025.
Leadership Program Co-Chairs
Partner,
Winston & Strawn LLP
Details
Leadership Program sessions are held weekly. The 90-minute sessions are virtual on Zoom, with a speaker or panel discussion to kick off the session, followed by breakout sessions with small cohort groups. These cohort groups remain intact throughout the Program to foster meaningful relationships, create trusted spaces for discussion, and ensure deep, long-term connections.
Participants must commit to attending five out of the six sessions when registering. Those who attend all six sessions receive a discount to register for the 2026 Annual Meeting.
While we finalize the 2026 agenda, check out the 2025 agenda for a glimpse of what to expect.
Week 1
Wednesday, March 25
Orientation
Learn more about how the Leadership Program is structured, but most importantly meet you cohort and get to know each other before diving into the series.
Week 2
Wednesday, April 1
Communications/Storytelling
Using storytelling techniques to enhance your professional communications.
Week 3
Wednesday, April 8
Finding Comfort with the Uncomfortable
Leaning into uncomfortable situations and creating growth opportunities.
Week 4
Wednesday, April 15
From Manager to Multiplier
Shifting from control to empowerment in team leadership.
Week 5
Wednesday, April 22
Creating Change
Using your influence and leadership to foster change.
Week 6
Wednesday, April 29
Ask Me Anything
Featuring the 2026 Leadership Program co-chairs, Deneen Donnley (Con Edison) and Kathi Vidal (Winston & Strawn), hear about their career paths and how they’ve applied the leadership skills discussed in this Program throughout their professional journeys, and ask them your questions that popped up throughout the series.
Partner,
Winston & Strawn LLP
Pricing
NAWL Member*
Non-Profit / Government Attorney
NAWL Sustaining Sponsor**
Price
$1,500
$750
$1,000
Registration will open in late 2025.
*If you're not yet a NAWL member but would like to register for the Leadership Program, click here to become a member first.
**Sustaining Sponsors are allocated a set number of complimentary tickets by level. Additional tickets can be purchased with this registration type. If your organization is a Sustaining Sponsor, check with them for more details.
