ARISE 2026
Unlock your leadership potential
Advance with purpose. Lead with impact. ARISE.
Empower. Connect. Transform.
September 15-18 | San Diego, California
Immerse yourself in a transformative experience designed exclusively for accomplished women of color.
The ARISE 2026 Leadership Experience offers a unique blend of development workshops, cultural immersion and wellness activities tailored to address the distinct challenges faced by women of color in leadership roles.
Download our brochure for full details of this week of empowered growth, networking and self-care
DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE
Unlock Your Leadership Potential Through:
Inspiring Keynotes
Hear from visionary women from underrepresented backgrounds shaping the future of leadership.
Interactive Workshops
Accelerate your leadership acumen by designing your leadership legacy, managing competing priorities and developing the skills needed to navigate the demands of your role.
Strategic Networking
Connect with influential leaders from diverse backgrounds and like-minded peers to expand your professional circle.
Cultural Immersion
Experience San Diego's rich heritage and enjoy wellness activities that help you recharge and prioritize your personal empowerment.
Meet Your Program Leaders
Kimberly A. White-Smith, EdD
Dean and Professor, School of Leadership and Education Sciences, University of San Diego
Niki Elliott, PhD
Director of the Center for Embodied Equity and Neurodiversity, School of Leadership and Education Sciences, University of San Diego
Toya Rattler, JD
Professor of Practice in Human Resources Management and Leadership, University of San Diego
Executive Coach and Leadership Advisor, AG Consulting, LLC
Register now to Join us in SAn Diego
Accelerate your leadership growth, network with like-minded women leaders and acquire the skills needed to thrive in your role. Secure your place today and be part of a transformative retreat designed for your personal and professional empowerment.
ARISE Info Session Registration
Learn what ARISE is all about during a live information session. Meet the team, explore the retreat experience, get your questions answered, and discover whether the program is the right fit for your leadership journey.
Hotel Accommodations
A discounted room rate is available for ARISE 2026 attendees at the Kona Kai San Diego Resort. Reservations must be made via the link below by August 21, 2026, or until the room block sells out. We encourage attendees to book early to secure the leadership experience rate and availability.
Agenda at a Glance
Tuesday, September 15 | Arrival & Community Building
3:00 PM – Registration and Hotel Check-In
4:30 PM – Opening Welcome Reception
Opening Session
- Welcome and Conference Overview
- Introduction to the Week's Goals and Outcomes
- Activity: Collective Resume
- Bringing It Back to Your Personal Leadership Commitments
Evening
- Networking Reception
Wednesday, September 16 | Leading from Within
Morning Session
Fortifying Your Leadership Radiance
- Understanding the science of vagal tone
- Mind-body practices for resilience and well-being
Midday Wellness Experience and Lunch Afternoon Session
Owning and Developing Your Leadership Style
Evening
- Networking Dinner
- Optional San Diego waterfront gathering
Thursday, September 17 | Resilience, Leadership and Connection
Morning Session
Exploring the Impact of Identity Threat and Trauma
- Polyvagal practices for increasing resilience
- Building resilience to workplace stressors through mind-body practices
Midday Session
Managing Critical Conversations
Afternoon Session
Coach-Centric Leadership
Late Afternoon
Leadership Fireside Chat
Networking Experience
Mining the Genius in the Room
- Intentional networking
- Collective problem-solving
- Facilitated reflection and debrief
Evening
- Curated San Diego Experience
Friday, September 18 | Leadership Legacy and Closing
Morning Session
Positioning Yourself for Achievement
- Developing Your Leadership Brand
- Storytelling for Influence
- Communicating with Confidence Through Verbal and Nonverbal Presence
Closing Session
Co-Regulation for Radiant Inspiration
- Reflection and Action Planning
- Personal Leadership Commitments
- Certificate Presentation
- Closing Remarks