The W.O.M.E.N. in America Leadership Program (WOMEN OPTIMIZING MENTORING, EDUCATION & NETWORKING) was conceived by a core group of 11 Senior Executive female leaders from various organizations who met at the 2008 FORTUNE Most Powerful Women’s Summit in San Diego, California. These women share a passion for helping professional business women in our country, who are early in their career lifecycle, advance their careers through unique mentorship, education, and networking opportunities. WIA's mission is to enable women to fulfill their maximum potential in the Board Room, the C-Suite, as entrepreneurs, and as leading edge professionals in their chosen profession. WIA's Curriculum focuses on six pillars: 1.) Creating a Leadership Model 2.) Creating Your Personal Brand 3.) Effective Networking (Includes building a personal Board of Directors) 4.) Navigating Difficult Conversations 5.) Career Planning & Transitions 6.) Financial Planning Upon graduating from this 18-month leadership program, women are expected to – and do – actively help other women through a conscious incorporation of “paying it forward” into their leadership style and daily actions.