Women in Mission

Institution Name: Seattle University

Program Contact Name: Jennifer Tilghman-Havens

Program Contact Email: tilghman@seattleu.edu

Program Contact Phone Number: (206) 228-4471

Short Program Description:

The Women in Mission (WIM) program was developed to serve Seattle University’s women-identifying faculty and staff—specifically, to deepen their engagement, commitment, and collaboration in the Jesuit mission. Program components include monthly “Ignatian Inspiration” lunches, an annual retreat, service activities, a Women’s Ignatian Leadership series, and other activities.

“Women of Color in Mission” (WOCIM) is a Women in Mission subgroup that gathers women faculty and staff of color (and allies) for supportive, prayerful conversation. The groups gather several times per year, including for a retreat.

Program Goals/Intended Outcomes:

1. Build community, belonging and connection among faculty and staff.
2. Inspire women to work and lead with the Ignatian tradition as their foundation.

Women in Mission Website

How long does it take to complete the program?: 1-3 Hours

Total Program Length: Varies

Key University/Other Partners: Women in Mission Advisory Committee

Funding Source(s): Endowment

Other Stipends: None

Assessment Data:

The following are answers to the question, “How does your experience of WIM/WOCIM gatherings affect your professional formation and work at Seattle University?”:

1. “WOCIM gatherings have deepened my connection to the mission, strengthened my sense of community, and created valuable opportunities for interdepartmental connections across campus.”
2. “My mental/emotional capacity for work increased as I engaged with WOCIM — I have the bandwidth and opportunity to connect with women who share similar values and identities. I feel seen, represented, and appreciated.”