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

Applying for the program

Applications for the 2025 program will open in the fall of 2024.


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 2025.
  • Commit to a $700 tuition cost. Some employers sponsor their employees to participate in this program as a professional development opportunity.
  • Commit to attending all six sessions (8 a.m.–5 p.m.) on the first Thursday of the month from January through June 2025.

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.

Learn more.

2024 35Under35 Participant Graphic

For any questions, please email Tiffany McShane at tmcshane@unitedwaycassclay.org or call 701-237-5050.

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