09/25/2026
Graduate Student Council had the wonderful opportunity to attend the 2026 Leading the Lone Star State: Texas Women in Public Service Summit, hosted by the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at TWU.
The day was filled with powerful reminders of what leadership can look like. Jane Nelson encouraged us to keep our WHY close, celebrate our own accomplishments as much as we celebrate others, and remember that our successes can inspire the women and girls who come after us. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about bringing people together.
LaShon Ross reminded us of the strength in thoughtful leadership: be authentic, listen attentively, value your voice, set boundaries, and don’t be afraid to respectfully disagree.
We also celebrated Bobbie Mitchell, recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Public Service Award, and heard from keynote speaker Karen Hughes, whose reflections on leadership, communication, career, and family were incredibly inspiring.
Most of all, it was amazing to be surrounded by women supporting women, celebrating one another, and growing together.
Thank you to the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership for such a meaningful experience!
