Announcements

MMASC Women's Leadership Summit 2026
Registration Now Open


Stronger than steel. Brighter than ever.


Early bird registration for the Municipal Management Association of Southern California Women’s Leadership Summit is now OPEN!

Join
MMASC on Thursday, September 17 at the Pomona Valley Mining Company for a powerful experience filled with inspiration, connection, and leadership growth as we shine brighter together.

Secure your spot today and be part of a community that leads with strength, resilience, and purpose.



Join Us for WLG Real Talk – A Space for Honest Leadership Conversations


Grab your coffee and join us every 4th Friday of the month from 9:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m. for an open, practical conversation about the real challenges and rewards of city and public‑sector leadership. 

Our facilitators

Heather Abrams, City Manager, Town of Fairfax

Jorge Garcia, City Manager, City of Pismo Beach 

Debra Rose, City Manager, City of Lake Forest

Maraskeshia Smith, City Manager, City of Sacramento

—will guide a candid roundtable designed to offer insight, support, and practical takeaways.

Whether you’re navigating difficult decisions, managing team dynamics, or simply looking for a sounding board, this is your space to connect with peers who understand the unique demands of public service.

Who Should Attend?
City Managers, Assistant City Managers, and Special District equivalents.

Why Join Us Monthly?
The WLG Real Talk program meets virtually on the 4th Friday of each month from 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m. Each session features a focused leadership topic and an interactive discussion led by rotating facilitators.

Ready to participate?
For more information or to join the conversation, contact Maraskeshia Smith at
mssmith@cityofsacramento.org

Make time for yourself, your leadership growth, and a supportive community that gets it—we hope to see you there!



WLG Book Club Returns in June!


We’re excited to share that the WLG Book Club will be kicking off on Monday, June 22, with quarterly remote meetings designed to fit busy schedules while fostering connection and professional growth.

June’s book selection is
How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith — a powerful guide that explores the habits that hold women back and the strategies that help them rise in their careers.

Whether you’re a returning participant or joining for the first time, all are welcome! If you would like to be part of the Book Club, please contact Natalie Basmaciyan at
nbasmaciyan@newportbeachca.gov


By admin December 2, 2025
Congratulations to our new Board Members for 2026 Debra Rose, President Karen Pinkos, Vice President Lori Sassoon, Member At Large Liz Habkirk, Member At Large Thank you to all who voted. Looking forward to a great year! The post 2025-2026 WLG Board Election Results appeared first on Women Leading Government CA.
By admin November 12, 2025
WLG’s Master Class Series is a 10-session program dedicated to exploring leadership and advancing in local government by building connections.