Overview
As part of our inaugural Leadership Roundtable program, we're excited to launch a new opportunity for Rising Leaders and LGW members to connect in meaningful ways. Leadership Roundtables are small, facilitated group experiences that bring participants together for guided conversation, mentorship, shared learning, and real-time problem-solving.
Each Roundtable centers around a specific theme and will include up to six Rising Leaders. The Roundtable will be led by an experienced LGW member who brings both expertise and lived experience to the conversation. Roundtables will meet quarterly in September, December, March, and June for 90 minutes. Participants commit to all four sessions, allowing for deeper connection, trust-building, and meaningful growth over time.
How It Works
Getting started is easy. Review the available Leadership Roundtables and submit the sign-up form by Monday, August 10, 2026, ranking your preferred Roundtables in order of interest. While we'll do our best to place you in one of your top choices, placements will be based on participant interest, availability, and each Roundtable's capacity, with priority given to active Rising Leaders. Participants will receive their Roundtable placement by Monday, August 17, 2026, along with next steps and meeting details.
As a member of our inaugural Leadership Roundtable cohort, you'll have the unique opportunity to help shape this new leadership experience while building meaningful connections through mentorship, shared learning, and authentic dialogue.
What You Will Gain
- Personalized mentorship from an experienced LGW member
- A trusted peer group for discussing real leadership challenges
- Expanded relationships across the LGW network
- Practical insights you can immediately apply in your work
- A confidential space for honest conversation and feedback
Roundtable Tracks
- Networking & Relationship Building
Nancie Lynch (’16)
CEO, Richard & Nancy Marriott Family FoundationsBuilding strong relationships is at the core of impactful leadership. This Roundtable focuses on developing authentic, strategic connections that support both personal and professional growth.
Participants Will Gain:
- Approaches to networking with intention and authenticity
- Strategies to build and maintain meaningful professional relationships
- Confidence navigating rooms, events, and opportunities
Featured Co-Mentor:
Dates:
- Wednesday, September 2, 2026
- Wednesday, December 2, 2026
- Thursday, March 11, 2027
- Wednesday, June 16, 2027
Time: 12-1:30pm
Location: Bethesda, MD
- Industry-Specific Guidance
Jennifer Gennaro Oxley (’22)
COO, The Capital CollectiveGain insight into navigating your industry with greater clarity and confidence. This Roundtable explores trends, challenges, and opportunities while helping participants position themselves for growth.
Participants Will Gain:
- Industry insights and emerging trends
- Guidance on positioning and advancement
- Real-world perspectives from an experienced leader
Featured Mentors:
Session Dates:
- Wednesday, September 23, 2026
- Wednesday, December 9, 2026
- Wednesday, March 10, 2027
- Wednesday, June 9, 2027
Time: 12-1pm
Locations:
- Washington, DC (9/23/26, 3/10/27)
- Falls Church, VA (12/9/26, 6/9/27)
- Career Navigation & Advancement
Kelly Darnell (’14)
COO, American Clean Power AssociationWhether you are seeking your next opportunity or thinking long-term, this Roundtable focuses on navigating career decisions with intention. Participants will explore how to advocate for themselves, identify opportunities, and make strategic career moves.
Participants Will Gain:
- Clarity in career direction and decision-making
- Tools for advancement and self-advocacy
- Insight into navigating transitions
Featured Mentor:
Session Dates:
- Wednesday, September 9, 2026
- Wednesday, December 9, 2026
- Tuesday, March 16, 2027
- Wednesday, June 16, 2027
Time: 6-7:30pm
Location: Washington, DC
- Leadership Development
Mary Brown (’09)
Co-founder & Executive Director, Life Pieces To MasterpiecesThis Roundtable draws on the Color Me Community (CMC) framework—an experiential, art-infused approach to leadership and human development. Participants will engage in a four-part process—connect, create, contribute, and celebrate—while building self-awareness, trust, and shared accountability.
Participants Will Gain:
- Greater self-awareness as a leader
- Tools for leading through complexity and change
- Reflection and feedback in a trusted environment
Featured Mentor:
- Sybongile Cook ('23)
Session Dates:
- Thursday, September 10, 2026
- Thursday, December 10, 2026
- Wednesday, March 10, 2027
- Thursday, June 10, 2027
Time: 12:30-2pm
Location: Washington, DC
If you have questions about the Leadership Roundtables, please contact Shayla Hines-Graham, Director of Development and Engagement, at shinesgraham@lgwdc.org.
Register Today!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible to participate?
Leadership Roundtables are designed for active Rising Leaders who are looking to deepen their leadership skills, expand their network, and learn from experienced LGW members. Preference will be given to active Rising Leaders.
- What if my first-choice Roundtable is full?
If your first choice reaches capacity, we will consider your remaining ranked preferences. We encourage you to thoughtfully rank all of the Roundtables that interest you.
- Can I participate in more than one Roundtable?
During the inaugural year, participants may join one Leadership Roundtable to ensure as many Rising Leaders as possible have the opportunity to participate.
- What if I can't attend one of the sessions?
Because Leadership Roundtables are built on trust and continuity, participants are expected to attend all four sessions whenever possible. If an unavoidable conflict arises, please notify your facilitator in advance.
- What happens during a Leadership Roundtable?
Each session is facilitated by an experienced LGW member and focuses on discussion, peer learning, mentorship, and collaborative problem solving. Participants are encouraged to share experiences, ask questions, and explore leadership challenges in a supportive environment.
- Are Leadership Roundtable discussions confidential?
Yes. Leadership Roundtables are intended to be a trusted space for candid conversation. Participants are expected to respect the confidentiality of discussions and create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing experiences and perspectives.
- Is there a cost to participate?
Participation in Leadership Roundtables is included as a benefit for active Rising Leaders. There is no additional fee to participate.