The ACE Women’s Network is a national system of networks, coordinated by a Women’s Network Executive Council (WNEC), which in turn is supported by ACE. The networks within each state, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia are made up of individuals who share the goal of supporting women in higher education. Each state network is led by a state chair who works with network members from institutions and at least one presidential sponsor to develop programs that identify, develop, encourage, advance, link, and support (IDEALS) women pursuing or advancing in higher education careers within that state.
The state networks are linked to one another through their connection with the American Council on Education (ACE) though the ACE Women's Network Executive Council (WNEC), a group of senior women executives from across the country who serve as mentors and advisers. The WNEC provides mentorship to state chairs and informs ACE on the overall functioning of the ACE Women's Network. State chairs also benefit from mentorship and guidance from college and university presidents and chancellors who serve as presidential sponsors.
Our Mission
The ACE Women’s Network facilitates the networking of women interested in pursuing leadership opportunities in higher education. A four-part structure—the WNEC; independent, state-based networks with state chairs; presidential sponsors; and institutional representatives—facilitates these connections, allows for sharing of best practices, particularly at the ACE Women’s Network Leadership Conference, and enables local leadership training by the state networks.
Learn more about the history of the ACE Women’s Network.