Evolving recognition program will connect women’s achievements with broader opportunities for leadership development
Insight Publications is expanding its Women of Influence program through a new partnership with the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s Schreiber Institute for Women’s Leadership, bringing greater emphasis to professional connection and leadership development.
Since 2020, Women of Influence has recognized women whose professional achievements and service are shaping Northeast Wisconsin through a feature in Insight on Business and at a live awards luncheon. The partnership builds on that tradition, extending the program beyond annual recognition to foster a broader community of women leaders.
“Leadership takes many forms, and some of the most meaningful contributions happen every day without a spotlight,” said Angela O’Kray, publisher at Insight Publications. “Women of Influence has always been about making sure those stories are told. Through our partnership with the Schreiber Institute, we’re building on that tradition and creating more opportunities for women to connect, learn from one another and continue their leadership journeys.”
The expanded approach comes amid ongoing challenges surrounding women’s professional advancement and workforce participation. According to Deloitte’s 2026 Global Women @ Work report, 45% of women who want to leave their current jobs cite a lack of career progression as a primary reason. More than half say balancing professional and home responsibilities does not feel manageable, yet 80% believe the flexible working conditions that enable both negatively affect career progression in their organizations. The survey underscores the importance of creating opportunities for women to build professional relationships and access support throughout their careers.
Insight will announce the 2027 Women of Influence honorees at Celebrate 2027 on Feb. 10, 2027, an annual event hosted by the UW-Green Bay Schreiber Institute for Women’s Leadership.
By fostering relationships and conversations beyond the annual recognition, Insight and the Schreiber Institute for Women’s Leadership aim to strengthen the community of women shaping Northeast Wisconsin.
“The true power of women’s leadership lies not only in individual achievement, but in our ability to lift one another up. Through this partnership, the Schreiber Institute for Women’s Leadership at UW Green Bay has an opportunity to build the recognition with Insight for our strong community of women who share their experiences, expand networks, mentor emerging leaders and open doors for others across Northeast Wisconsin,” said Barb LaMue, Executive in Residence, Schreiber Institute for Women’s Leadership.
Nominations are now open for the 2027 Women of Influence. Insight invites the Northeast Wisconsin community to nominate women whose leadership, professional achievements and service are making a difference in their workplaces and communities.
The nomination deadline is Dec. 31, 2026. Honorees will be recognized at Celebrate 2027 on Feb. 10, 2027.
To nominate a woman for Women of Influence, visit insightonbusiness.com/submit/nominate.
About Schreiber Institute for Women’s Leadership
UW-Green Bay’s Schreiber Institute for Women’s Leadership is dedicated to engaging, inspiring and empowering the next generation of women leaders to ensure a strong and equitable leadership pipeline. The University established the Institute in 2021, recognizing the region’s growing need for a pipeline of women leaders and the distinct challenges faced by professional women in the workplace. The Institute is a comprehensive leadership resource committed to providing ongoing, forward-thinking networking, education and inspiration to support women as they rise. The Institute presents wide-ranging programs, events, and research, benefiting women with access to experts and supportive networks. Equally important, the Institute works to increase communities’ knowledge and awareness of issues related to women in leadership and advance new knowledge about women and leadership in the State of Wisconsin through benchmarking data on women in business and research about women and leadership.https://www.uwgb.edu/womens-leadership/events/celebrate/
About Insight Publications
Insight Publications is a business media company serving Northeast Wisconsin through print, digital and event platforms. The company connects and informs business leaders, decision-makers and community stakeholders by delivering trusted content, meaningful business connections and programs that highlight the people, organizations and ideas shaping the region. Through its publications, website, newsletters, podcasts and events, Insight provides business leaders with information, visibility and opportunities to engage with the broader Northeast Wisconsin business community.www.insightonbusiness.com
Date posted: November 2, 2026