Why apply to the 2026 McGrath Leadership Program?
By Beth Solomon
Applications for the 2026 Margaret McGrath Leadership Program are still being accepted. Are you considering applying to the Margaret McGrath Leadership Program, but not sure what to expect? See below for insight from graduates who are current leaders of the League of Women Voters of Broward County.
Dana Bee, a graduate of the 2025 program and the Membership Onboarding Chair, explained, “I joined the League in June of 2024 and applied to the leadership program for 2025 because I wanted to learn more about the League and build community. I am truly amazed at the impact the League has locally, regionally and nationally and its rich history. I wanted to make a difference and was not quite sure exactly where I fit in. We all have passions and ideals and want to find the right course of realization. (After completing the leadership program), I am chair of onboarding, a new division of membership committee with the goals of welcoming new members and helping find connections and build engagement…We are stronger together.”
According to Beth Solomon, a graduate of the 2025 McGrath Leadership program and Assistant Treasurer of the 501(c)(4) Advocacy Fund, “Program participants learn about national, state and local League functions and connect with current League leaders and community representatives. The goal of the Program is to enhance participants’ leadership skills and prepare participants for future leadership roles.”
When asked whether the Leadership program met expectations, Karen Strangwayes, a graduate of the 2025 McGrath Leadership program and the current Co-Chair of the LWVBC Women’s Rights Committee, exclaimed, “I was so excited that the training surpassed my expectations, so much. I not only learned about the mission and the inner workings of the League, but the networking and the connections that I made were incredible…and I loved the lively debate and though-providing conversations.”
Julie Long, a graduate of the 2025 program and a Board member who is active in the Environmental Program, said: “I applied to the program because leaders I respected within the organization suggested it would be helpful. Although I was aware of (the Program), I would not have applied without that nudge. I am glad I did.”
Graciela Hopkins, a 2024 graduate and 2025 Program leader, said that she most appreciated the “exchanges between experienced members and new members.”
For Agustina Sklar, a 2024 graduate and 2025 Program leader and Chair of the Housing Program, “understanding the inner workings of the League,…the way financing, committees and legal organize…and the overview of the Bylaws” were most valuable. She also commented that, “meeting the (other) women (in my leadership class) was super special!”
Natalia Ramirez, a 2025 graduate and Education Committee Co-Chair, commented, “The leadership program was the perfect vehicle for building relationships with other members, and for gaining insight into what it really takes to run such an important organization.” Beth added, “Participation was a unique and valuable experience. Not only did our class learn about the amazing programs operated by the knowledgeable leadership of the League of Women Voters of Broward County, we had the opportunity to hear from civic-minded local representatives about the way they represent and support Broward County.”
Natalia concluded, “I deeply appreciated the nurturing environment facilitated by the (program) leaders. I would absolutely recommend the program to anyone wanting to learn more about making a difference in their community—come as you are!”
McGrath Leadership Program - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Margaret McGrath Leadership Program? The leadership program prepares participants for future leadership roles designed to sustain, grow, and diversify the League of Women Voters of Broward County. Expect to meet with League leadership and a series of elected officials who will speak to the leadership class during the nine-month program. Plus, you will learn about the League’s 100+ year history, along with the programs operated by the League at the federal, state, and local levels.
What is the time commitment? The program consists of five three-hour sessions (followed by lunch) once each month beginning in January. In addition, participation in at least one local League business meeting and one national or state business meeting is required.
Where are the sessions? In-person program sessions are hosted at local libraries in Broward County. Participation in League state or local business meetings is generally on-line.
Who was Margaret McGrath? Margaret McGrath was a long-term member of the LWV, first in Pittsburgh and later in Broward County. Margaret was passionate about politics, government and advocacy. She served on the Board of Directors of the LWVBC Education Fund and as Chair of the Legislative Advocacy Committee. Her sudden death in 2023 prompted our League to establish a Leadership program in her memory and as her legacy.
Do I need to pay for the Leadership program if I’m selected? Participants are not required to pay to participate in the program. This opportunity is made possible through the generous support of donors to the Margaret McGrath Leadership Program and by the Skirt Foundation.
I’m convinced! How do I Apply for the 2026 Margaret McGrath Leadership Program? Simply complete and submit an application available herby November 15th: https://form.jotform.com/252948086620059
Must I be a Member of the LWVBC to Apply? Yes, and it’s easy to become a member here: lwvbroward.org.
Who can I contact with any additional questions? Send any additional questions to leadershipprogram@lwvbroward.org.