Local governments are confronting unprecedented challenges and rapid change. Women are often at the center of this work, and they face barriers to visibility, influence, and recognition. 

The 2026 SheLeadsGov Virtual Summit tackles those realities head‑on, offering guidance rooted in lived experience and actionable expertise. This event will bring together seasoned practitioners, rising leaders, and strategic thinkers for three powerful panel conversations that speak directly to the realities women face in public service. 

Register today to join this webinar designed to equip women with the tools, insights, and inspiration to thrive in today’s complex civic landscape. 

Schedule at a Glance

11:00 AM–11:10 AM: Welcome and introductions

11:10 AM–12:00 PM: (Panel 1) Brag Better at Every Level in Local Government: Strategic Self-Advocacy That Feels Authentic

Great leaders aren’t just knowledgeable- they’re compelling communicators. This first webinar panel will explore effective communication and techniques that help women cut through noise, build trust, and move people to action.

12:00 PM–12:10 PM: Break/introduction to the second panel

12:10 PM–1:00 PM: (Panel 2) Command the Message: Strategic Communication for Women in Leadership”

This panel will highlight the skills and mindsets that help women shape outcomes in politically charged or resource‑constrained environments.

1:00 PM–1:10 PM: Break/introduction to the third panel

1:10 PM–1:55 PM: (Panel 3) Influence in Action: Women Leading Through Change

Women in public service often struggle with visibility, not because they lack accomplishments, but because traditional self‑promotion may feel uncomfortable or misaligned with public‑sector values. The final panel will reframe self‑advocacy as a leadership skill, not a personality trait.

1:55 PM–2:00 PM: Conclusion

Key Takeaways 

• Explore how strategic communications can be used as a tool for women in local government to learn how to be more confident in leadership and overcome adversity in a changing world. 
• Gain insider insights into how to communicate effectively with elected officials, community members, and your colleagues and peers.  
• Learn actionable strategies for building trust and credibility across departments and stakeholder groups through periods of stress or uncertainty.  
• Discuss how to balance championing your team as a local government leader with owning your own contributions and success. 
• Explore approaches to protecting your peace, honoring your experience, and stepping into your own self-worth. 

Registration 

Courtesy of Cigna Healthcare, registration for the 2026 SheLeadsGov Virtual Summit is complimentary. The event will be hosted live through ICMA's Learning Lab. In the event you cannot attend the live event, session recordings will be available via the ICMA Learning Lab.

Consider a Watch Party 

A SheLeadsGov watch party is an engaging way to experience this event with colleagues and peers. It offers a unique blend of virtual and in-person elements, making it a valuable and enriching way to participate in the Summit.  

Watch parties can provide: 

• Shared Viewing Experience: Gather with others to watch the virtual forum together, creating a sense of community and shared purpose. 
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with colleagues from various departments, fostering relationships and collaboration. 
• Interactive Components: Enhance the experience with in-person activities such as networking breakfasts, mindfulness breaks, and facilitated discussions about the forum's content. 
• Engagement and Focus: By participating in a watch party, attendees can stay more engaged and focused on the event, minimizing distractions that often come with virtual attendance. 

Meet the Moderators

Kimberly Funderburk president of government, education, and health systems, Cigna Healthcare

Meet the Panelists

Amanda Serock, MPA township manager, Concord, Pennsylvania, and member of the SheLeadsGov Committee

Jessica Whitley assistant to the borough manager, State College, Pennsylvania, and member of the SheLeadsGov Committee

Betsy C Keller, CM, SPHR, SHRM-SCP chief administrator, El Paso, Texas