Annual Conference for Marketing and Branding Professionals 2025

No Wizard Required: Courageous Leadership for Women in Higher Ed Marketing

The future of higher education marketing doesn’t require a wand or wizard—it demands fearless leadership, innovative thinking, and the confidence to rise to new challenges. In this session, we’ll explore how women in leadership roles can “defy gravity” and build resilient, adaptable teams that embrace change and thrive through transformation. It’s time to rethink the status quo and step out from the shadows of traditional hierarchies and gatekeepers. Instead, we’ll focus on strategies that empower you to be the change-maker, leading with authenticity, collaboration, and clarity—even when things feel a bit “wicked.”Through real-world examples and actionable insights, this session will equip you with the tools to:“Popular-ize” your vision and build buy-in across campus for MarComm initiatives.Lead with authenticity and courage, even when met with resistance.Identify your “yellow brick road” to senior leadership and identify the skills and strategies that support professional growth—whether you’re ready to pursue senior leadership or just considering your next step.Whether you’re managing a complex project, implementing new systems or technology, or reshaping your team’s structure, this session will help you reflect on your path and build confidence for whatever comes next—no wizard required.

Speakers: Kin Sejpal, Vice President, Strategic Marketing and Communications, University of Redlands, Carrie Phillips, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Myla Edmond, Senior Vice President, RW Jones Agency, Josie Ahlquist, Digital Engagement and Leadership Consultant, Dr. Josie. Inc., Mallory Willsea

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