The 2026-2027 Leadership Academy is open to women attorneys who were admitted to the bar in 2021 or earlier. This intensive leadership development program is designed to equip participants with the skills, insight, and confidence necessary to become more effective leaders within their workplaces, the legal profession, and their communities.

Through the Leadership Academy, participants will have the unique opportunity to engage with and build meaningful professional relationships with influential leaders across the Bar and the State, including judges, elected officials, and accomplished attorneys. The program also provides a valuable platform for participants to deepen their involvement with GAWL while networking, collaborating, and learning alongside a dynamic cohort of fellow women attorneys.

Participants who successfully complete the Leadership Academy will receive CLE credits and become part of an active and growing alumni network of Leadership Academy graduates, fostering continued mentorship, connection, and professional development well beyond the program itself.   

If you have any questions or would like more information about the Leadership Academy,  email leadership@gawl.org.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: August 30, 2026

Apply here: GAWL Leadership Academy Application

This Intensive leadership training program teaches attorneys to develop meaningful and practical leadership skills for use in law practice, community, and life. Participants will hear from a number of high-profile women leaders in the Georgia legal community, including a panel discussion with a number of past GAWL presidents, and will engage in team-building, coaching, and mentoring exercises.

“Through GAWL’s Leadership Academy we will continue to foster an environment where women can grow and develop professionally and personally. We look forward to another year of successful, inspiring, motivating, and intellectually stimulating sessions!” 

~Michelle West, former GAWL Leadership Vice President.

The program consists of four main sessions throughout the year and several supplemental sessions, including two overnight sessions (may require in-state travel) and two one day sessions (in Atlanta). Past locations for Leadership Academy overnight sessions include The Ritz Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation, Chateau Elan, and Brasstown Valley Resort and Spa in North Georgia.

The Leadership Academy is a biennial program open to all Georgia-based female attorneys who have been practicing for 5 years or more. You do not have to be a GAWL member to apply to the Leadership Academy, but you do have to be a GAWL member to attend.