Women’s Leadership Institute, Launch Your Leadership Journey Program

Calling All Female Students

Launch Your Leadership Journey is a free leadership development program offered each Spring semester at Tunxis Community College which offers women the tools they need to be successful leaders in college, in their communities, and in their careers.

The design of the program is experiential and interactive, stretching the students outside their comfort zones to promote leadership growth. It provides life-changing leadership development experiences for women who passionately desire to become leaders.

Application is now open for Spring 2024

Email Monika Chudy if you have any questions about the application.

This program strives to help women build the self-confidence and self-esteem needed to become leaders in their families, colleges, communities, and careers.

Among the topics are addressing gender bias, problem-solving skills, leading with authority, assertiveness skills, addressing conflict, cultural sensitivity, and networking. 

Students chosen to participate in the sessions gain practical experience in leading change by working in small teams to plan and execute a social action project during the semester.  The teams are guided by female leadership mentors and facilitators who are highly experienced, local leaders, leadership consultants, and trainers.

To be selected for the program, students must submit an application which includes a minimum GPA requirement, a written statement that explains their interest in developing leadership abilities, and attend an interview.

Schedule for Launch Your Leadership Journey Program

Kickoff Reception
Friday, January 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Session Dates
Sessions meet on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

January 20, 27
February 3, 10, 24
March 2, 9, 23
April 6, 13, 20, 27

Graduation
Friday, May 3, 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Student Testimonials

Angela Owusu-Sotia
Tunxis Student
Spring 2023 Program

Meriem Zeriouh
Tunxis Student
Spring 2023 Program

“…I learned to listen more to other views and take them into consideration regardless of my own opinion… I have been able to use all the skills learned and applied them to the goals I have set for myself in life. I am grateful to all the wonderful women leaders that came and showed us skills we can use for the rest of our lives. The best part of it all is seeing the wonderful women in person and being able to connect and build a stronger relationship with them and letting each other know that we are present for each other in the future. This program helped me be a stronger thinker and leader in my own way. I am and always will be forever grateful to all the members of LYLJ program…”

Linda Betances
Tunxis Student
Spring 2022 Program

“Ten years ago, I didn’t think I was going to make it out of the abusive relationship I was in, so for me to be able to experience this leadership program deeply means a lot to me. Now I’m able to continue on with my journey of helping those who are experiencing homelessness and domestic violence and that is my dream.”

Anggriyani Soebroto
Tunxis Student
Spring 2021 Program

“ …I have gained lifelong skills that contributed and will continue to be the building blocks for my development as a woman and a future leader. Launch your Leadership Journey…has encouraged, inspired, and empowered me to move toward my goals with confidence and assertiveness. Today, more than ever, I know that I am capable of accomplishing many impressive goals. I have the courage, knowledge and the power to succeed in my life.”

Zina Sadji
Tunxis Student
Spring 2021 Program 

“The program made me stretch outside my comfort zone to promote leadership growth. Each session gave me the ability to learn about networking skills, empowerment, assertiveness and how to develop courage, confidence and presence. Because of this incredible opportunity, I will be more successful in my future career and overall, in my everyday life.”

Marlena Polski
Tunxis Student
Spring 2021 Program

“The part of the Launch Your Leadership Journey program that was most helpful was the exercises that we did in the classroom…I remember every time I left the classroom, I felt empowered to face anything that would come my way. Today I am an intern at a Fortune 50 company, and I will graduate with my bachelor’s degree in accounting in December 2020. I am planning to apply for the Finance Leadership program at Raytheon Technologies, and I am confident that I can get this position because I know I have the skills and confidence that I need.”

Samia Ameur
Tunxis Student
Spring 2019 Program