Creating space for women to lead and thrive

Faculty and staff from Central Michigan University joined women leaders from across the state for the MI-ACE Women’s Network Leadership Retreat on May 15-16. Designed to support women in higher education, the retreat offered time to reflect, connect and re-energize before the start of summer. 

Misty Bennett, associate dean of the College of Business Administration, attended with her co-institutional representative, Shawna Patterson-Stephens, vice president of University Engagement and Student Affairs office. Together, they helped bring the idea of a campus-based women’s retreat to life. 

Wellness and leadership in one space 

Sessions throughout the retreat focused on professional growth, personal wellness, and shared leadership. A wellness session led by Mel Bailey, who leads Maternal Child Health Services for the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, introduced basic somatic exercises, encouraging participants to reconnect with their bodies and minds. 

“As a yoga practitioner, I appreciated the opportunity to talk about wellness in a professional space,” Bennett said. “It was supportive and judgment-free.” 

Outdoor dance yoga and wellness discussions helped participants explore new ways to rest and recharge, something often overlooked in leadership roles. 

Shared stories and meaningful connection 

For Bennett, one of the most valuable aspects of the retreat was connecting with others on campus. “I’ve been at CMU for 17 years and still met people I didn’t know,” she said. “It’s powerful to realize others are facing similar challenges.” 

These connections helped women across departments and roles feel less isolated and more supported. Through shared stories and honest conversations, the retreat fostered a sense of belonging. 

From conversation to collaboration 

The retreat theme, “Accelerating Action into Practice,” came to life during a lunch and learn session with Provost Paula Lancaster. Participants were invited to share an idea they hoped to implement on campus. Bennett suggested the creation of a campus daycare, and others in the group offered contacts, resources and support.  

These connections helped women across departments and roles feel less isolated and more supported. Through shared stories and honest conversations, the retreat fostered a sense of belonging. 

CBA graphic designer Jayden Ellsworth said the experience left a lasting impression. “I could not be more grateful for the guest speakers that came to share their depth of knowledge, precise expertise, steadfast leadership and their undeniable truth as professionals,” they said. “The entire experience felt remarkably candid and honest. I came out of the MI-ACE Women’s Retreat feeling seen, appreciated and encouraged.” 

Looking ahead 

As the retreat continues to grow, Bennett hopes to expand its reach and impact. One goal is to secure additional resources to support guest speakers from outside the university and offer a broader range of programming. 

Bennett also sees potential for collaboration beyond CMU. She hopes future retreats can include faculty and staff from other institutions, creating a statewide network of support for women in higher education.