Empowering the next generation of women in education leaders

On April 13, USC Rossier hosted the Women in Leadership and Virginia Archer Melbo Networking Event. The theme was “Breaking Barriers: Women Who Lead and Inspire,” where education leaders shared personal stories of resilience, advocacy and growth, and offered candid reflections on navigating leadership as women in education. The event emphasized mentorship, courage and the importance of building networks that empower future generations of women leaders.

Honoring the legacy of Virginia Archer Melbo, the Women of the Dean’s Superintendent Advisory Group (DSAG) is committed to holding events tailored for female leaders. Through inspirational gatherings featuring current or retired female superintendents, the group provides invaluable guidance and shares stories that inspire and motivate the next generation of women leaders. 

Moderated by Catherine Kawaguchi EdD ‘14, the panel included Kimberly White EdD ‘04, dean of education at San Diego University; Monica Oviedo MS ’99, EdD ‘04, superintendent of Whittier Union High School District; and Melissa Moore EdD ‘14, retired superintendent of El Segundo Unified School District.

Key insights from the panel discussion:

Leadership often begins when someone else sees your potential first

Panelists reflected on how mentors and colleagues encouraged them to pursue leadership roles they had not initially imagined for themselves. Moore shared that she never planned to become a district leader until an HR administrator suggested she would be good at administration. Oviedo and White recalled how professors and principals planted the seeds for future opportunities simply by expressing confidence in her abilities. Panelists stressed the power of someone saying, “You can do this.”

The common message was clear: mentorship matters and women leaders should actively identify and encourage talent in others.

Women leaders must advocate for themselves—especially in spaces where inequities persist

Candid conversations about salary equity, promotions and leadership opportunities were discussed. White recalled discovering that a male colleague in the same administrative role was earning considerably more despite having fewer qualifications than her. She described negotiating compensation packages by researching comparable salaries and refusing to settle for less than her value.

Panelists acknowledged that women are often perceived differently when they self-advocate. They encouraged attendees not to shrink themselves or wait until they feel fully prepared before pursuing advancement.

“Do not place artificial limits on yourself,” Moore said. “The only one who can truly speak for yourself is you.”

Authentic leadership matters more than fitting traditional expectations

Speakers reflected on pressures women often face to conform to traditional leadership norms.

White shared how an early mentor advised her to tone down her personal style and appearance in order to be taken more seriously. Instead, she chose to lead authentically and remain connected to the communities she serves. “I can’t wait for spaces to become affirming for me to show up as my full self,” she said.

Panelists encouraged attendees to embrace leadership styles rooted in empathy, humanity and community-centered values rather than trying to emulate outdated models of authority.

Difficult conversations require courage, clarity and compassion

From navigating employee issues to handling politically charged community conflicts during the COVID–19 pandemic, panelists spoke about the emotional demands of leadership.

Moore recalled receiving public criticism after issuing a statement of compassion and support for students following the murder of George Floyd. Despite the backlash, she said community support and staying grounded in her values helped her persevere. White emphasized the importance of separating decisions from personal worth during difficult conversations. Oviedo encouraged attendees to spend the time listening and seeking understanding. "Talking with the school to see whether there was an opportunity to resolve the issue, in a way, felt like a win-win for everyone,” she added.

Throughout the discussion, panelists stressed that effective leadership requires listening carefully, leading with empathy and remaining focused on students and community needs even during moments of disagreement.

Women should dream bigger and help others rise with them

The event concluded with a strong call for women to imagine themselves in leadership positions—even if those roles once felt out of reach. Drawing inspiration from Afrofuturism, White encouraged attendees to “dream yourself into a future that was not originally designed for you.” 

Speakers also emphasized the responsibility leaders have to open doors for others. Whether mentoring younger colleagues, building leadership pipelines or advocating for women in their organizations, leadership is a collective work rather than individual success. The panel reinforced the importance of community, mentorship and courage, and reminded attendees that leadership does not happen alone.

“We need fierce women in these roles,” Moore said. “There are future superintendents and deans in this room.”