Shannon Mantaro, Executive Director/Chief Officer of the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University, has been selected to join an elite network of more than 8,000 professionals as a member of the Leadership Texas Class of 2025.
“Mantaro is one of 90 outstanding leaders competitively selected from across the state to participate in one of the longest-running statewide leadership development programs in the U.S. Throughout this year-long program, participants will broaden their perspectives on Texas’s critical issues, gaining insight through visits to three major cities and engaging with experts, government officials, and thought leaders. These experiences will enhance their leadership capabilities and strengthen their confidence in driving positive change within their organizations and communities.”
Leadership Texas, the flagship program of Leadership Women (LW), is designed to expand participants' understanding of cultural, social, and economic shifts while equipping them with the knowledge and networks necessary to navigate and lead in a rapidly evolving landscape. Since its inception in 1983, Leadership Texas has provided a platform for leaders to explore challenges beyond their industries and spheres of influence, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnected forces shaping the state.
The theme for the 2025 program year is “Navigating Leadership Challenges Ahead: Guiding the Future of the Lone Star State.” Participants will travel to Houston, Abilene and the Rio Grande Valley to explore how each city is addressing key opportunities and challenges. “By engaging with community leaders and innovative thinkers, participants will gain valuable insights that will inform their leadership approach for years to come,” noted Heidi Murray, LW’s Chief Operating Officer.
Through the generous contributions of LW Sponsors, Leadership Texas continues to provide the most up-to-date leadership development programming. LW proudly recognizes Walker & Dunlop, Texas Instruments, and PepsiCo as sponsors.
Interested candidates for next year’s program are encouraged to visit the LW website – www.leadership-women.org – for additional information and application details.
Leadership Women, Inc.
Leadership Women, Inc. (LW) is a national leadership organization with thousands of graduates across the country. Established in Austin, Texas in 1974, LW is dedicated to advancing leadership through programs that connect, inspire, empower, and equip professionals to make a lasting impact. Leadership Texas, launched in 1983, remains a cornerstone program, with additional initiatives such as Leadership America, Leadership Pipeline, Leadership Encore, and Leadership International, each designed to foster leadership excellence across various career stages and development.