Frequently Asked Questions

The NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin is an award winning, nationally recognized, bi-partisan program for emerging women leaders. It is an intensive week-long residential summer institute on the campus of Mount Mary College in Milwaukee.

What is the purpose of the NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin Summer Institute?
NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin is a program for college women designed to address the under-representation of women in politics at the local, regional, state and national levels. Our goal is to educate, empower and encourage more women to take on public leadership roles at all levels, up to and including elective office. This program provides the opportunity to meet incredible women from around the state who will mentor, coach, and teach you important skills for the future. It is a once in a lifetime chance to meet other women your age from across the state, making new friends, learning new skills, and becoming a future leader for your community.

I am not interested in politics, why should I apply?
While some of us do not like to think about politics, we are all part of the political process in one way or another. If you drive a car, worry about tuition increases or how to pay for a doctor visit, or volunteer at a local shelter, then politics and government affect you! Every day, important decisions are made that have an impact on your life and your future. And those decisions don't just happen in the halls of government. Politics is in your local community center, on your campus, in your neighborhood, within organizations you belong to and lots of other places. Participating in politics means being part of the decision-making process and making your voice heard.

How many students will be selected to participate in the Institute?
Approximately 20-25 students.

Am I Eligible?
We are committed to including women from diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, racial and educational backgrounds in each NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin program. Any Wisconsin college student enrolled in a Wisconsin college or university is eligible to apply; Wisconsin residents attending school outside of the state; and students who graduated within the year are all eligible. We encourage all students with all kinds of interests and backgrounds to apply because we believe that everyone who attends benefits in some way. Diversity of views and positions on interests is considered a strength of the program.

What does the program cost?
NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin is supported by donations from corporate sponsors and individuals that cover some costs for this program. Each participating college and university is asked to pay a $500 program fee per student. Students are required to provide contact information for a faculty or staff member at their school who agrees to assist them in obtaining funding for the NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin program fee, should they be selected for the program. There is no cost to the student, as all program expenses, including meals, housing, field trips, and materials are covered by NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin. Students will be responsible from travel to and from Mount Mary College at the start and conclusion of the program. Students may want to bring a small amount of spending money for personal expenses.

When is the application deadline?
The program is held in June at Mount Mary College in Milwaukee. The deadline for applications to the program is in May.

Are special accommodations available for the disabled?
Mount Mary College strives to maintain a barrier-free environment so that students with disabilities can fully access residence halls, programs and services.

Will I have roommates?
Participants will be staying in the Mount Mary College dorms on campus. Most rooms are equipped with two beds and a bathroom.

Do you cater to dietary restrictions?
Meals will be provided by the NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin program. Should you need any special arrangements, please email us.

Can family and friends visit me during the program?
No. The daily curriculum is packed with activities, workshops and seminars that will keep you busy throughout the week.

What is my commitment?
NEW Leadership™ Wisconsin participants are expected to attend all summer institute sessions and live in the residence halls during the entire program. In completing the application, you acknowledge that you are aware of these requirements and agree, if accepted, to make every effort to meet this commitment.

What if I have additional questions?
Please contact Beth Wnuk, (414) 443-3631.

[Some information reproduced from the website for the Center for American Women and Politics, Eagleton Institute of Politics, Rutgers University. See the permission to reproduce.]