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Developing the Next generation of AWS Leaders
Developing the Next generation of AWS Leaders
1st Symposium: July 26-29, 2026
2nd Symposium: TBA
Every strong AWS Section or Student Chapter has members who make things happen. They organize events, motivate peers, and keep momentum going. The Leadership Symposium was created to support these high-performing members with tools and resources and connect them to leaders across AWS.
Since 1999, over 700 AWS volunteers have participated at our World Headquarters in Doral (Miami), FL. Many have moved on to hold prominent committee roles within AWS and have even served on the AWS Board of Directors.
Who is Program is For
Who is Program is For
The Symposium is built for active members who show commitment, reliability, and a willingness to step into leadership. Nominations can be put forward by anyone, such as peers, instructors/educators, and even from the candidate themselves (self-nomination) and students are required to submit an application.
- Section volunteers who consistently take on responsibilities
- Members who show initiative and reliability
- Individuals with interest in expanding their involvement at the district or national level
- Students whose activities have produced outstanding school or community achievements, who keep their chapters organized and engaged, or exhibit exceptional leadership skills within their school program or local Section
Inside the Leadership Symposium
Inside the Leadership Symposium
The program is hands-on and designed to give members practical insight into AWS leadership while building a strong peer network.
Key Components:
Applied leadership skills:
Focus on real AWS challenges—managing Sections, organizing events, leading committees, and balancing
volunteer responsibilities with career or school obligations.
Networking with peers:
Connect with members from other Sections and Chapters to exchange best practices, solve common challenges,
and form lasting relationships.
Direct interaction with AWS leadership:
Face time with an AWS Board of Directors Member, the Membership Chair, Symposium Alumni and staff provides insights into how leadership roles are structured and how to prepare for advancement.
Better Understanding of AWS Governance:
Learn how various Committees, Boards, and Districts function and how to navigate them for measurable impact.
The District Nomination and Student Application Process
Nominations
- A District nomination is submitted either by the member or by someone who has seen their leadership in action by the due date.
- A Student nomination form from an educator/instructor or another professional will be attached to the student’s application for the AWS Membership Committee’s review.
- Direct Directors with their District leadership review all submissions and will select individuals who demonstrate involvement, follow-through and potential.
Student Applications
- Each student must apply using a link located in the student information box.
- The AWS Membership Committee will review all applications and any nominations or letters of recommendations submitted to make their selections.
Nomination Type & Eligibility
Nomination Type & Eligibility
AWS District Representatives
Each of the 22 Districts selects one representative per cohort to represent their District. Candidates must be a current AWS Member. Contact your Section Chair or District Director for questions.
Deadline: February 28, 2026
AWS Student Representatives
The AWS Membership Committee selects five AWS Student Representatives for each AWS Leadership Symposium cohort.
Students whose activities have produced outstanding school and community achievements and have exhibited exceptional leadership skills are encouraged to apply.
Applicant qualifications and eligibility requirements can be found on the AWS Student Representative application link provided below.
Deadline: February 28, 2026
AWS Section-Sponsored Representatives
A limited number of slots are reserved for members whose AWS Section has committed to sponsoring their participation.
Please connect directly with your Section leadership to express your interest in participating.
If a Section commits to sponsoring one of its members, the Chair or dedicated Section leader must contact Lori Ortiz at lortiz@aws.org to confirm an open spot or get placed on the waitlist.