35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program
About the program
United Way of Cass-Clay’s 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program’s goal is to inspire local women from all backgrounds to make a difference, help them realize their leadership skills and energize their collective power as women in our community. The program includes sessions, led by local leaders, covering topics such as goal setting, communication, personal growth, board leadership, public speaking, conflict management, and other leadership-focused topics.
Our mission:
- Strengthens leadership skills and confidence of female leaders
- Enhances the impact of women across our workplaces, homes, and community
- Inspires collaboration and unity
Applications Information
Applications are now closed for the 2026 program. Additional information and application timeline for the 2027 program will be available August 2026.
The program is most successful when we have a variety of backgrounds, industries, and skill-sets represented. To be eligible to apply you must:
- Be a woman living or working in Cass or Clay counties.
- Be 23-35 years of age at the start of the program in January.
- Commit to a $1,000 tuition cost. Most employers sponsor their employees to participate in this program as a professional development opportunity. Limited partial scholarships are available.
- Commit to attending all six sessions (8 a.m.–5 p.m.) on the first Thursday of the month from January through June.
United Way is committed to fostering opportunities for women of all backgrounds to experience the program. If you fit within the criteria above and are interested in growing as a leader, we’d love for you to apply!
A limited number of partial scholarships are available upon request. Please see the application for more information.
Benefits to Participants & Employers
This program strengthens participants’ leadership skills and confidence – which helps them grow as individuals, as well as enriches their contribution within their workplace. Participants enhance their skills to:
- Connect with a diverse network of dynamic young women and local leaders.
- Expand knowledge of the community and opportunities to serve in volunteer leadership positions.
- Become re-energized, motivated and equipped to sharpen their skill set.
- Gain confidence and skills to lead in current and future positions at their companies.
For any questions, please email Tiffany McShane at tmcshane@unitedwaycassclay.org or call 701-237-5050.