Women in higher education IT often face challenges related to leadership, visibility, professional growth, and belonging. While these experiences are common, opportunities for open conversation and collaborative problem-solving can be harder to find. This interactive breakout session creates a space for exactly that.
Facilitated by members of the EDUCAUSE Young Professionals Advisory Committee (YPAC), the session begins with brief personal introductions from each presenter, offering insight into their career journeys and perspectives in higher education IT. Participants will then experience a live demonstration of a "Hot Seat" activity, a structured peer-learning exercise designed to tap into the collective wisdom of a community. During the activity, one individual shares a professional challenge while a small group collaborates to brainstorm ideas, strategies, and solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to observe the process and then put it into practice themselves.
Through real-world examples, shared experiences, and open discussion, participants will leave with practical approaches to workplace challenges, new connections with colleagues across institutions, and a simple framework they can use to engage peers in meaningful problem-solving long after the conference ends. The session concludes with additional resources, audience Q&A, and opportunities for continued connection.
