Brenau University will host its 11th Annual Women’s Leadership Colloquium at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, March 15, in the Hosch Theatre at the John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts. The event is free and open to the public and brings together students, alumni, and community members to celebrate women leaders.
The Women’s Leadership Colloquium was founded by Debra Dobkins, Ph.D., assistant vice president and dean of the Women’s College at Brenau University. This event offers opportunities for attendees to network, hear personal stories from prominent speakers, and engage in conversations that inspire personal growth.
“The colloquium is about empowerment and creating space for connection,” Dobkins said. “It’s a chance for students to meet inspiring leaders, connect with alumni, and leave feeling fueled for days to come. ”
The speaker lineup features women who have made significant impacts in their fields:
- Nicole Love Hendrickson, keynote Speaker and chair of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners, made history as the first African American to hold the position. Known for her work on housing affordability and transit services, Hendrickson continues to shape policies that impact more than one million residents.
- Nairika Cornett, Alumni Association endowed speaker and executive director of the Quinlan Visual Arts Center, is a Brenau alumna with a background in dance pedagogy and arts management. She brings years of experience in the arts and civic leadership to the Gainesville community.
- Dobkins, featured speaker, will reflect on her 27 years at Brenau as she prepares to retire. Her speech will explore the evolution of The Women’s College and the enduring strength of its community.
The program also includes student performances, a tea reception, and a closing wine and cheese networking session. Past attendees have praised the event for its welcoming atmosphere and valuable connections.
Emily Reid, director of Alumni Engagement at Brenau, described the colloquium as “a mini-reunion for alumni and an opportunity for students to meet community leaders and potential mentors.”
The colloquium supports the university’s GOLD Program. This year’s theme is titled “Serving the Self, Serving the Community” and highlights the importance of balancing personal well-being with community involvement.
“The Women’s Leadership Colloquium is a testament to the power of connection, mentorship and the strength of women supporting women,” Dawn Marie Bernhard, president-elect of the Alumni Association, said. “The Alumni Association is proud to sponsor and champion this event, reinforcing our commitment to fostering leadership and lifelong learning within the Brenau community.”
The colloquium will be live-streamed to reach alumni and supporters nationwide. In 2024, more than 500 participants attended the event, with a nearly equal split between in-person and virtual audiences.
“We’ve seen great engagement from our virtual attendees,” Dobkins said. “It’s a tribute to the magical and mighty power of a women’s community. When women come together and decide to do something, you just stand back and watch it happen.”
The Women’s Leadership Colloquium continues to make a lasting impact on students and the broader Brenau community, providing invaluable opportunities for networking, mentorship and inspiration.
“I’ve known students who found jobs or mentors through the event,” Dobkins said. “It’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and be inspired by the power of women’s leadership.”
The event is free, but registration is required to ensure an accurate headcount for materials and refreshments. Register online here.
