On June 8, 2022, a new chapter began at UCI with the historic introduction of the Women of the Dean's Leadership Society (WDLS) – a milestone for both the university and the School of Social Sciences. The WDLS was established to deepen and enrich women's engagement through philanthropy, leadership, and mentoring within the School of Social Sciences.

The Women of the Dean’s Leadership Society is a group of passionate philanthropists whose generous contributions have made a lasting impact, supporting and enhancing the areas that matter most to them. As visionary leaders from diverse backgrounds, they cultivate meaningful connections that span professional fields, philanthropic interests, academic disciplines, board service, and beyond.

In Fall 2023, the WDLS vision took a significant step forward with the launch of the LeadHER pilot program at the UCI School of Social Sciences. Recognizing the pivotal roles women play as community leaders, faculty, alumni, students, and donors, the WDLS is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and access. This program supports and advocates for diverse voices, creating pathways to philanthropy for women of all backgrounds. The LeadHER initiative, born from the WDLS's dedication to empowering women to lead, has quickly become a cornerstone of our efforts to foster leadership and mentorship among female students.

LeadHER accepts up to only 20 students per cohort, ensuring that each participant benefits from personalized attention and engagement with mentors and peers. Selection for this program is a mark of distinction, offering a unique opportunity to develop essential skills and advance as a female leader.

Mission

LeadHER is a testament to the WDLS's unwavering dedication to nurturing the next generation of women leaders. Through structured mentorship, small group learning circles, and a tailored curriculum, LeadHER empowers students with the essential skills and networks for academic and professional success. This innovative program not only enriches the educational experience but also fosters a supportive community where resilience, innovation, and solidarity thrive. At its core, LeadHER embodies the philanthropic and leadership principles championed by the WDLS. By uniting donors, mentors, faculty, and students, LeadHER continually expands its reach and impact, equipping more women to lead with confidence and integrity in all aspects of life.

Vision

Building on the foundation laid by the WDLS and the LeadHER initiative, our vision is to create a thriving community where female leaders and aspiring women come together to share knowledge, experiences, and guidance. This program offers a unique opportunity to connect undergraduate women with female mentors who are invested in their academic and professional growth.

With a strong emphasis on female leadership and community building, LeadHER adopts a collective mentoring approach, fostering collaboration and shared learning rather than traditional one-on-one mentoring. Throughout the Fall Quarter, mentors lead learning circles, each guiding a small group of five mentees. Mentees engage deeply with the content by learning about the mentors, reviewing related articles, and preparing thoughtful questions for each session. Through this process, mentors share their expertise, personal narratives, and professional insights, providing mentees with invaluable opportunities for growth and development.