Annual event brings women and professionals together for a day of leadership
development, connection and personal and professional growth
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – The University of Mary Washington will host its 32nd Annual
Women’s Leadership Colloquium on Thursday, Nov. 5, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Cedric
Rucker University Center. Centered on the theme “Navigating Life and Leadership,” this year’s
event will bring together women and professionals from across the region for a day of
inspiration, meaningful conversation and practical leadership development.
The Colloquium celebrates the many ways women lead, whether in the workplace, at home or
throughout their communities. Through keynote remarks, interactive breakout sessions and
opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, attendees will explore strategies for
navigating challenges, building confidence, strengthening professional visibility and leading with
authenticity.
Keynote speaker Deshauna Barber, an Army veteran, former Miss USA, international
motivational speaker and founder of Women Veterans For Change, will share insights informed
by her experiences in military service, advocacy and leadership.
The day’s breakout sessions will address a range of professional and personal leadership
topics, including resilience, visibility and recognition, authenticity, rest as a leadership strategy,
advocacy and making meaningful professional connections. The program is designed for
executives, entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, educators, community advocates and anyone
interested in continued personal and professional growth.
For Devin Fedor, Director of Regional Partnerships at the University of Mary Washington and a
member of the Colloquium community, the event offers an opportunity to invest in personal
growth while building relationships with others.
“At all stages of life and career, it’s important to find your people. People who are supportive,
challenging, and encouraging. People who see the best in you and help you become the best
version of yourself. My fellow board members at the Women’s Leadership Colloquium are my
kind of people, and it’s an honor to serve alongside them,” Fedor said.
Fedor also emphasized the value of setting aside time for development and connection.
“The Annual Colloquium is our signature event, the culmination of a year’s worth of
programming focused on learning, connection, and growth. It’s a fantastic opportunity to spend
a day focused on you, surrounded by the best possible company,” Fedor said.
Brittany McBride-Doughty, Financial Advisor and Vice President at Cary Street Partners,
highlighted the value of bringing together women committed to learning and supporting one
another.
“In this community, we are so lucky to have an organization that brings together women who are
lifelong learners with growth mindsets for not only themselves, but also their fellow community
leaders,” McBride-Doughty said.
The Women’s Leadership Colloquium is part of UMW’s ongoing commitment to fostering
leadership, professional development and meaningful connections among women and
professionals throughout the region. Its mission is to create a network and relevant learning
environment to inspire women for a lifetime of leadership. All are welcome to attend.
To explore the speaker lineup and breakout sessions or register, visit umw.edu/lcpw/colloquium.
A full list of sessions is available at umw.edu/lcpw/colloquium/sessions