About Us

Women Leading Government

Women fill leadership roles in all arenas of government. A group of California leaders in government who share a strong desire to continue to grow talent and encourage women to excel has come together to form Women Leading Government.

Women Leading Government (WLG) is an initiative started in November 2006 by the Cal-ICMA Preparing the Next Generation Committee. Organized by female managers of California’s cities, counties, and special districts, WLG is designed to assist female managers in their career development, providing professional development, networking, and mentoring opportunities. WLG welcomes all people dedicated to public service and the development of women leaders.

In 2011, WLG approved an affiliation agreement with the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) to strengthen mutual efforts in support of women in the profession. This agreement outlines the ties and collaborative relationship between WLG and ICMA. WLG is an affiliate of ICMA, having been created as part of Cal-ICMA.



WLG’s goals are in alignment with ICMA’s, and both organizations will seek even more opportunities to work together to foster professional management in local government.

Our Mission

To inspire and prepare women to be local government executive leaders and support their success.

Women fill leadership roles in all arenas of government. A group of California leaders in government who share a strong desire to continue to grow talent and encourage women to excel has come together to form Women Leading Government.

Women Leading Government (WLG) is an initiative started in November 2006 by the Cal-ICMA Preparing the Next Generation committee. Organized by female managers of California’s cities, counties, and special districts, WLG is designed to assist female managers in their career development. WLG welcomes all people dedicated to public service and the development of women leaders. In 2011, WLG approved an affiliation agreement with ICMA to strengthen mutual efforts in support of women in the profession. This agreement outlines the ties and collaborative relationship between WLG and ICMA. WLG is an affiliate of ICMA, having been created as part of Cal-ICMA. WLG’s goals are in alignment with ICMA’s and both organizations will seek even more opportunities to work together to foster professional management in local government.

Debra Rose, President
City Manager, City of Lake Forest

Karen Pinkos, Vice President
City Manager, City of El Cerrito

Christine Cordon, Secretary
City Manager, City of Westminster
info@womenleadinggovernment.com

April Mitts, Treasurer
Assistant City Manager, City of Healdsburg
treasurer@womenleadinggovernment.com

Board Members At-Large:
Liz Habkirk, Assistant City Manager, City of Napa
Lori Sassoon, Chief Talent Officer, City of Corona
Marakeshia Smith, City Manager, City of Sacramento
Tanya Spiegel, Deputy Director of Economic Development, City of Rancho Cucamonga

Carlene Saxton, Immediate Past President,  Assistant City Manager, City of Ventura
Pat Martel, Ex-Officio ICMA Liaison, ICMA West Coast Regional Director, Retired City Manager