MPK&D client HERS (Higher Education Resource Services) held a successful Leadership Retreat for Presidents and Chancellors at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, Colorado, in December 2024. Forty-seven leaders from diverse institutions across 18 states representing public universities, private colleges, liberal arts schools and community colleges participated. The Mellon Foundation, Ascendium Education Group, ECMC Foundation and MPK&D sponsored the event.

Designed to support women and gender-diverse leaders in higher education, the retreat offered a unique opportunity for reflection, connection and skill building. As higher education leaders face unprecedented challenges, the insights, connections and strategies cultivated during the event will impact institutions nationwide.

Dynamic programming included a keynote address by Dr. Nancy Cantor, President of Hunter College, on “Courageous Leadership,” leadership sessions that provided attendees with practical tools and strategies for navigating the complexities of their roles, roundtable discussions for collaborative problem solving, networking opportunities and wellness activities.

The retreat received positive feedback, with 90% of attendees agreeing that they left with actionable strategies to enhance their leadership effectiveness and 100% recommending the retreat to peers or planning to attend future events.

Plans are already underway for future retreats. Find more information at HERS.