Retain Top Talent. Develop Emerging Leaders. Recognize High Performers.
Over the years, Gearing Up has consistently delivered tangible leadership skills, fostering a community of women+ professionals eager to expand their networks, seek mentorship and set achievable goals. Doing so empowers participants to confidently advance in their careers despite systemic barriers. As Gearing Up has evolved into a robust, year-round leadership development program, we are excited to offer ongoing in-person, virtual, and asynchronous programming. These experiences provide more opportunities to connect with others, learn from experts, and implement data-driven strategies to advance women+ leaders at every level.
Empower Women+ Leaders of Tomorrow
Format
- Mix of in-person cohort experiences and virtual sessions
- Includes both cohort-exclusive and public-facing events
- Runs from September 2026 through May 2027
Program Kick-Off
September 23, 2026 (in-person)
Launches the cohort experience with opportunities for connection and growth.
Inclusive Leadership in the Age of AI
November 4, 2026 (virtual)
Explores leadership and inclusion in an evolving workplace.
Three full-day Leadership Intensive sessions
Jan 29, Feb 5, 12, 2027 (in-person)
Provides immersive leadership development and skill-building.
The Gearing Up Awards Luncheon
March 24, 2027 (in-person)
Celebrates leadership achievements and community impact.
Bridging Difference Through Brave Dialogues®
April 14, 2027 (in-person)
Focuses on inclusive communication and navigating challenging conversations.
Reflection Session: May 12, 2027 (virtual)
Allows participants to reflect on their learning and plan next steps.
What if I/my team can’t attend all program dates?
The program is offered in different modalities to accommodate as many people as possible and offer flexibility to the participants. We do understand that schedules may not allow everyone to attend every session and we encourage you to prioritize the Three-Day Leadership Intensive dates in Winter of 2027 and the Gearing Up Leadership Awards Luncheon on March 24, 2027. Learning will also be supported online via Brightspace with recaps, previously recorded content and microlearning modules between sessions.
Is this program only for women?
The program is open to all genders and allies. While it is designed to help women+ break through the barriers that delay promotion and build momentum for long-term growth, Gearing Up offers applicable skills for all leaders, and research shows that developing women+ benefits everyone in the workplace.
Who do I contact if I have questions or need more information?
Please email Cindy Hanshaw, chanshaw@bentley.edu.
Sponsorship Opportunities
$20,000
- Presenting Sponsor Designation
- 20 employee cohort for all virtual and in-person sessions
- 20 tickets to The Gearing Up Leadership Awards Luncheon (March 2027)
- Logo on reserved table
- Exhibit at Success Fair
- Present an Award (optional)
- Microlearning modules access for 12-months
- 20 LinkedIn profile reviews in partnership with FlexProfessionals
- Present session during Leadership Intensive (optional)
- Brand visibility benefits
$10,000
- 10 employee cohort for virtual and in-person sessions
- 10 tickets to The Gearing Up Leadership Awards Luncheon (March 2027)
- Logo on reserved table
- Exhibit at Success Fair
- Microlearning modules access for 12-months
- Present session during Leadership Intensive (optional)
- Brand visibility benefits
$7,000
- 7 employee cohort for all virtual and in-person sessions
- 7 tickets to The Gearing Up Leadership Awards Luncheon (March 2027)
- Logo on reserved table
- Exhibit at Success Fair
- Microlearning modules access for 12-months
- Brand visibility benefits
$5,000
- 5 employee cohort for all virtual and in-person sessions
- 5 tickets to The Gearing Up Leadership Awards Luncheon (March 2027)
- Logo on reserved table
- Exhibit at Success Fair
- Microlearning modules access for 12-months
- Brand visibility benefits
2026 - 2027 Sponsors
Ally Sponsor
Advocate Sponsor
Amplifier Sponsors
