Held annually, the Dr. Jean E. Winsand Institute for Women in School Leadership is a one-day leadership conference for women leaders in K-12 school districts and educational institutions.
Conference agenda typically includes:
- Keynote speaker and breakout sessions
- Networking with colleagues
- Lunch and awards ceremony
22nd Annual Jean E. Winsand Workshop for Women in School Leadership
Theme: Leading in Turbulent Times
📅 April 11, 2025
📍 University Club, University of Pittsburgh
🕗 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM
About the Workshop
Held annually, the Dr. Jean E. Winsand Workshop for Women in School Leadership is a one-day leadership conference designed for women leaders in K-12 school districts and educational institutions.
The event brings together women in education for a powerful day of leadership development, professional networking, and celebration of excellence.
This year’s theme, "Leading in Turbulent Times," focuses on navigating leadership challenges with resilience, clarity, and innovation.
Keynote Speaker
Christina Cassotis – CEO, Allegheny County Airport Authority
Christina Cassotis has transformed Pittsburgh International Airport into a model of innovation, economic impact, and growth. Recognized as Pittsburgh Magazine’s 2024 Pittsburgher of the Year.
Workshop Sessions
Ready. Fire. Aim: 40 Minutes to Prepare Yourself to Lead Safe and Secure Climates and Cultures
Presenter: Dr. Melissa Nelson, K12 Safety & Security Subject Matter Expert
How do we prepare ourselves and our teams for endless possibilities of safety and security incidents? And how do we secure our leadership authority during turbulent situations that affect our school communities? Beginning with the end in mind, proactive planning focused on the knowledge, skills, and resources covered in this lightning talk will provide a solid foundation for leading safe and secure climates and cultures.
Who’s on First?
Presenters: Rebecca Heaton Hall & Jocelyn P. Kramer, Weiss Burkardt Kramer, LLC
What’s new in education law over the last few months? Plenty. WBK Partners, Rebecca Heaton Hall and Jocelyn P. Kramer, will review the recent federal executive orders to help explain our evolving legal landscapes from the school solicitor’s perspective. Topics will include immigration, diversity, school choice, funding and more.
Human Trafficking, Sextortion, and Grooming: How to Recognize, Stop, and Prevent
Presenter: The Asservo Project
Learn what human trafficking, sextortion and grooming are and what they have in common. Explore how predators work diligently to ensnare and trap our youth. At The Asservo Project, we offer education, solutions, help and most of all hope in fighting this heinous crime that is pervasive in every area of our society. Who is most vulnerable? How do we recognize it? How do we stop it? Education is the first step!
Additional Program Features
WPSBC Student Market
We are thrilled to welcome back the young entrepreneurs from the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children. This market demonstrates how students can expand their skill-sets through valuable and relevant real-life experiences.
2025 Philanthropic Donation Recipient: East End Cooperative Ministry (EECM)
East End Cooperative Ministry (EECM) was founded in 1970 as a collective response to changes in the East End community, born when local faith communities recognized that the troubles of the community were too great for any one of them to address alone. EECM was initially envisioned to serve the young, the elderly, and the poor of the area, as well as to promote interfaith events. Throughout its 50 years, EECM has continued to respond to changing community needs through its many programs and services.
Honoring Excellence in Leadership
Dr. Jean E. Winsand Distinguished Woman in Education Award
The Dr. Jean E. Winsand Distinguished Woman in Education Award honors a woman who has made a significant impact and positive difference throughout her career. This award recognizes a woman who has demonstrated exemplary leadership and service to others through her activities and initiatives.
2025 Honoree:
Dr. Shannon Wagner, Superintendent, Burrell School District
Dr. Jean E. Winsand Emerging Woman Leader in Education Award
The Dr. Jean E. Winsand Emerging Woman Leader in Education Award honors a woman who is at an early stage on the path of her leadership career. This award recognizes a woman who has already made a significant impact and positive difference through her leadership activities and initiatives.
2025 Honoree:
Dr. Marie Palano, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Assessment, Seneca Valley School District
Registration Fees
Members:
- $100 per individual
- $90 per person for groups of 5 or more
- $50 per person (lunch-only)
- Superintendents attend free
Non-Members:
- $120 per individual
- $110 per person for groups of 5 or more
- $60 per person (lunch-only)
📌 Registration is now closed, please email tristate@pitt.edu to be added to the wait list.
Parking & Logistics
Parking Available at Soldiers & Sailors Garage – Reserved spots are available for $10 per vehicle. Please indicate your parking needs when registering.
Questions? Contact us at tristate@pitt.edu.
About Dr. Jean E. Winsand
Dr. Jean Winsand was an associate professor in both the Departments of Instruction and Learning and Administrative and Policy Studies in The University of Pittsburgh’s School of Education. She was a woman of integrity, determination, professionalism, and absolute passion for quality teaching and leadership. While Dr. Winsand was uncompromising on standards, especially in the service of learners and communities, she was incredibly accommodating in the support of learning and growth for professionals in the field. She fervently advocated for more females in administration at both the University level and in K-12 schools. Dr. Winsand was a consummate professional, but was also equally very human. She was a colorful woman who was accessible, fun-loving, and laid back. Her legacy is a reminder of our constant roles as learners, teachers and leaders.