CALL FOR PROPOSALS
Women in higher education have often carried the mantle of “first,” the first to graduate, the first to lead a department, the first to hold a presidency, the first to break barriers in fields long closed to them. While these “firsts” are powerful milestones, the journey toward equity does not end there. The next chapter calls for multiplying opportunities so that women’s leadership, scholarship, and contributions are not the exception, but the norm.
The 2026 GAWHE (Georgia Association for Women in Higher Education) Conference invites scholars, practitioners, college faculty and staff, and campus leaders from diverse fields to submit proposals for presentations, panels, and workshops that explore the legacy of trailblazing women and to strategize for a future where many can follow in their footsteps. This conference seeks to bring together scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and students. Together, we will celebrate accomplishments, examine persistent challenges, and share actionable strategies for paving the way for the next generation of women in higher education.
Proposal Topics
We welcome proposals from diverse perspectives and disciplines. Topics may include, but are not limited to:
- Case studies of women who have been “firsts” in their roles or fields
- Institutional policies and practices that support women’s advancement
- Mentorship and sponsorship models that nurture emerging leaders
- Intersectionality and the unique experiences of women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities
- Research on gender equity and representation in higher education leadership
- Strategies for creating sustainable change and expanding access to opportunities
- International perspectives on women’s leadership and participation in higher education
Session Formats
Proposals may take the form of:
- Individual Presentations (20 minutes)
- Panel Discussions (60 minutes)
- Workshops (60–90 minutes, interactive)
- Poster Sessions (for research or program highlights)
Submission Guidelines
Please submit a proposal including:
- Title (max 15 words)
- Abstract (150–250 words) describing the content, objectives, and relevance to the conference theme
- Format (presentation, panel, workshop, poster)
- Presenter(s) Information: name, title, affiliation, email address, and short biography (100 words max) for each presenter
- Learning Outcomes: 2–3 key takeaways for attendees