AWIL for Men

Both men and women are invited to attend AWIL (Advancing Women in Leadership) 2020. 

We asked a few men to share why they attend the AWIL conference:

"In just a few short years, the AWIL conference has become a professional development "must" not only for women, but for the men who work alongside [women] in Christian higher education. Both practical and inspirational, the keynotes and breakout sessions will transform your leadership. The AWIL conference invites men into a conversation to deepen their understanding of issues women face in the workplace. Whether you are an emerging leader or an established leader, the content of the conference provides timely, critical and expert insight that will enhance and transform your leadership." 

André Stephens, Ph.D.,Vice President for Student Development, Biola University

"I had the privilege of attending two Advancing Women in Leadership (AWIL) Conferences; one hosted by Biola University in 2017 and the other hosted on my campus, Vanguard University, in 2019. This conference fosters an understanding of the roles men have as allies, advocates, and champions for women in leadership – and the unique impact men have to influence and educate other men who may not be aware of these dynamics. The conference provides a safe space for women and men to dialogue on important matters such as the gender imbalance in higher education faculty, staff, and senior leadership, which remain predominantly male in spite of the fact that the majority of today’s students on Christian college and university campuses are female. The conference will also provide opportunities for you to recognize and affirm those female colleagues who aspire to higher levels of leadership and influence. For this reason and many others, I find it valuable for men and women to attend this conference together. I encourage my male colleagues, those who wish to play an active role in strengthening the culture of their institutions so women and men flourish together, to attend and to invite others to join them. Please join me on Friday, March 20, 2020 at Cal Baptist University."

Pete C. Menjares, Ph.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vanguard University

"The responsibility of providing leadership development opportunities for women should not solely rest on women in leadership. Men play a major role in providing mentorship, coaching, support, and sponsorship for all developing professionals--especially for women. The Advancing Women in Leadership Conference provides an atmosphere where data-informed presentations and personal narratives open conversations for women and men to consider ways in which the workplace can and should be more gender equitable."

-Coba Canales, Dean of Spiritual Life of Azusa Pacific University