Dear Sisters:

THE APPLICATION DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL MARCH 20, 2015!

Across the nation, AFSCME women are leading the charge to create change for working families. Women leaders know that to accomplish our goals we must actively recruit new members and engage other members to join us, fight for the issues that matter most to members at the bargaining table and in state legislatures, and lift up the voices and stories of AFSCME members to promote the value of public services. As a part of these efforts, we must look to the future, allowing new leadership to emerge. And, we must provide seasoned leaders with the tools and resources they need to get the job done.

That’s why we are excited to announce the 2015 AFSCME Women’s Leadership Academy, to be held from June to December of this year. The Academy, designed for women officers or activists at the local union level, prepares AFSCME women for future leadership roles in our union. Below are the requirements for participation in the Academy and a web address for the Academy application.

This six-month Academy will include:
• A five-day orientation session on June 22-26, 2015, and a three-day closing session in December.
• Completion of a local or council campaign project.
• Frequent contact through social media and webinars.

The national union will pay costs for travel, overnight accommodations (double occupancy), and meals for all formal sessions. Participants or affiliates are expected to cover any release time or lost wages.

Applicants must demonstrate:
• Commitment to our 2015 priorities and to build AFSCME during the next decade.
• Support from your AFSCME local or council.
• Engagement in activities supporting Power to Win goals, for example: organizing new members or increasing member involvement, political action/PEOPLE recruitment, community allies work.

Application/Selection Process:
• Complete the online application here.
• Applications and letter of support must be received by March 20, 2015.
• Your scanned letter of support may be e-mailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Your letter of support may be mailed to: AFSCME Education Department, Attn: WLA, 1625 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036.
• Following review and selection, applicants will be notified by Friday, April 10, 2015.

We hope you take advantage of this powerful opportunity to help build our union.

In solidarity,