Michigan State University has launched a new initiative aimed at propelling women into leadership positions within the business sector. The Dashney Women’s Leadership Accelerator (DWLA), funded by a generous donation from MSU alum Priya Balasubramaniam, is designed to support a select group of women each year from the Broad College of Business through personalized mentorship, workshops, and specialized opportunities.
The DWLA is named in honor of Helen Dashney, a long-time mentor and professor to Balasubramaniam, who has been instrumental in shaping her career since the early 2000s. Dashney expressed her gratitude and sense of responsibility upon learning that Balasubramaniam wished to establish the program in her name. “It is a profound honor to be recognized in such a way by a former student,” Dashney remarked. “I feel a great sense of responsibility to lead this initiative in a manner that reflects her vision and objectives.”
The program’s primary goal is to enhance the representation of women in senior management roles within corporate America. Dashney aims to equip DWLA participants with critical leadership skills that will accelerate their progression into top executive positions. “Our approach is to ensure that women get a strong start early in their careers,” Dashney explained. “By developing a robust skill set early on, they will gain traction and access higher opportunities more swiftly.”
The inaugural DWLA cohort, comprising 14 women known as DWLA Scholars, began their journey in January. While the program maintains a select membership to ensure personalized engagement, its broader impact is anticipated to be substantial. This reflects the “multiplier effect,” where insights and knowledge shared within the program can extend beyond the immediate participants.
Marketing junior Kate Vanderspool expressed her enthusiasm for the program, noting her eagerness to contribute to the network of Broad women alumni. “I’m excited to be a resource for future generations,” she said.
Human resource management junior Kennedi Bryant highlighted the program’s unique approach, emphasizing its focus on interactive dialogue rather than traditional lectures. “It’s an open space for meaningful conversations and learning from each other’s experiences,” Bryant said.
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