The Virginia Chamber of Commerce Foundation is pleased to present the 2026 Virginia Women’s Leadership Forum on Thursday, March 12, during Women’s History Month.
Join this special event to hear from influential voices of Virginia’s female leaders working to improve the Commonwealth.
This event will also highlight the newly formed Women in Business Industry Council working to advance Blueprint Virginia 2035 priorities.
Through candid conversations and shared leadership perspectives, attendees will gain real-world insights while building connections among women working to improve all facets of life in Virginia.
Highlights
- Thought-provoking conversations with women leading in business, government, and public service.
- Personal leadership stories and real-world lessons from trailblazers across Virginia.
- Networking opportunities with professionals, advocates, and changemakers committed to equity and impact.
- Celebration of women’s civic and economic contributions, past and present.
Sponsor opportunities
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Mary-Michael Wachur at m.wachur@vachamber.com.
Discussion topics
Power, Purpose, and the Path to Leadership
In a business world that’s still catching up on gender equity at the highest levels, this panel brings together some of Virginia’s top female business leaders—from C-suite executives to small business owners and entrepreneurs. These accomplished professionals will share their personal career journeys, offering insights shaped by leadership across organizations of all sizes. From overcoming bias to creating work-life balance to mentoring the next generation, this discussion will provide an honest and empowering look at what it takes to lead, grow, and thrive at every level of business leadership.
Women in the Care Economy: Healthcare, Housing, Education, and Childcare
A dynamic conversation among four women leaders shaping industries that directly impact women’s lives and livelihoods: healthcare, childcare, higher education, and housing. Panelists will share insights from these critical sectors, discuss cross-industry challenges and opportunities, and offer practical perspectives on leadership, influence, and the future of women-centered industries.
Reflecting on Personal Stories of Professional Women
We will break out into small groups to offer attendees an opportunity for more personal discussions of their experiences in the workforce. These small-group conversations are designed to create space for authentic dialog among forum attendees. Time permitting, table leaders will share notable highlights from the breakout sessions.
Blueprint Virginia 2035: How the Business Community’s Recommendations Support Women in Virginia
Co-chairs of the new Women in Business Industry Council share how the recommendations in the newest Blueprint document directly affect women—and how you can lend your knowledge and expertise to help shape the future of women in Virginia’s business community.
Location
The Altria Theater
6 N Laurel Street
Richmond, VA 23220
Parking
The closest and most convenient option is:
VCU West Main Street Deck
801 West Main Street
Richmond, VA 23284
Note: Additional parking garages and street parking are available. Visit Altria’s parking page: Directions & parking.
Check-in
There are no physical tickets distributed. Simply check in upon arrival at registration to receive your name tag, which serves as your ticket for the day.
Dress
Business attire. Our theme color is Blueprint Virginia 2035 Light Blue if you’re feeling inspired to coordinate.
