Five-part professional development program brings together leaders from across the region

UTICA, NY – SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) is launching the Poly Leadership, Engagement, and Development (LEAD) for Women Series, a new five-part leadership and professional development program that will bring together current and emerging women leaders from across the Mohawk Valley and Central New York to learn, connect, and grow.

The series is designed to provide practical leadership tools, meaningful networking opportunities, and wellness-centered experiences that support both professional and personal growth. Participants will engage with accomplished business leaders, educators, coaches, and executives while building relationships with peers from a wide range of industries.

Poly LEAD is more than a series of workshops. It is a regional community of women committed to lifelong learning, leadership excellence, and supporting one another throughout their careers.

“Leadership is strengthened when people have opportunities to learn from one another, exchange ideas, and build meaningful professional relationships,” said SUNY Poly Vice President of Human Resources Michele Kilburn. “The Poly LEAD for Women series reflects SUNY Poly’s commitment to serving our region by creating opportunities for professionals to continue learning throughout their careers. We are excited to bring together women from diverse backgrounds and industries to share experiences, develop practical leadership skills, and build connections that will extend well beyond the five sessions.”

Beginning August 6, participants will meet monthly at SUNY Poly for interactive sessions covering topics including leadership presence and personal growth, resilience and wellness, productivity and workplace tools, navigating difficult conversations, building influence, and leading with confidence regardless of title or position.

The series will feature keynote speaker and workshop presenter Kristy Mandour, Founder of Sow to Speak and Executive Presence & Leadership Communication Advisor. Additional presenters include Dr. Patricia Roach, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, certified professional coach, and SUNY Poly clinical assistant professor; Jasminka Husic, CPA, CFO and Director of Finance and Business Intelligence at NYSTEC; members of SUNY Poly leadership; representatives from Zonta International; and community leader Kim Johnson.

Designed for women in middle management and emerging leadership roles, the program welcomes professionals from education, healthcare, STEM, manufacturing, business, nonprofit organizations, public service, and other sectors. Department chairs, managers, supervisors, project leaders, educators, and professionals seeking to expand their leadership impact are encouraged to participate.

Participants who complete all five sessions will receive a certificate recognizing their completion of the program.

Early bird registration is $425 through July 15, with standard registration being $500 thereafter. Individual sessions may also be purchased for $150 each. Sessions will also be recorded for registered participants unable to attend in person.

Businesses and organizations interested in supporting leadership development across the region may also sponsor the series. If you are interested in a sponsorship, contact Andrea LaGatta at andrea.lagatta@sunypoly.edu.

All other questions can be directed to the SUNY Poly Office of Workforce Development at OWD@sunypoly.edu.

To learn more and/or register, visit the Poly Lead for Women Series webpage.