Identify Develop Encourage Advance Support

Women
In Higher Education

Are you new to academia and looking for ways to connect with other scholars in or outside of your field of expertise? Need to jump-start your career and are looking for mentors to guide you? Then SCWHE events are a wonderful opportunity for you!

2026 SCWHE Annual Conference

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Benefits

You become a member of SCWHE when you support, participate and/or contribute to SCWHE activities. There are no membership dues.

Be a part of a dynamic group of individuals who support the advancement of women – Get involved in SCWHE!

Network with higher education professionals

Participate in a variety of development training workshops for your personal and professional growth

Identify
a mentor

Communicate with your counterparts at other SC institutions

Meet
women leaders

Attend the annual conference to learn about current issues and trends facing higher education

ACE Women's Network Partner

SCWHE is a partner of the American Council on Education Women’s Network, which provides the national direction for women’s leadership development and career advancement.

Valuable professional development

National System

Advancing women in higher education

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Expert Team

SCWHE 2026 Annual Conference

About the Conference

Welcome to the 2026 SCWHE Annual Conference!

Join us on Thursday, February 19 and Friday, February 20, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Columbia for the 2026 SC Women in Higher Education Annual Conference. This year’s theme is Voices of Change: Learning, Lifting, & Thriving in Higher Education.

This in-person event is a great opportunity to connect with women in higher education and gain valuable insights from experts in academia, administration, and student affairs. Institutional Representatives will begin Thursday morning with a pre-conference workshop. All others may begin check-in on Thursday between 11:00am-12:00pm. Conference sessions will conclude at 4:00pm. On Friday, we will begin with a continental breakfast at 8:00am, and sessions will take place from 9:00a.m.-2:00p.m.

Don’t miss out on engaging sessions and inspiring keynote speakers. Whether you’re a seasoned higher education professional or just starting out in your career, there’s something for everyone at the 2026 SCWHE Annual Conference.

Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to see you there!

SCWHE Virtual Series

About the Session

The middle isn’t a waiting room; it’s a leadership proving ground. Through candid conversations, practical strategies, and interactive reflection, participants will explore the business of higher education, strengthen their leadership presence, expand their influence, and lead with wisdom and intention—maximizing their impact today while preparing for what’s next.

About the Presenter

Shelia Higgs Burkhalter, affectionately known as “Shiggs,” currently serves as Vice President for Student Affairs at Winthrop University. She is also the Founder and CEO of Shiggs B International, LLC, a leadership development and coaching company helping leaders lead with clarity, courage, and purpose.

A speaker, three-time bestselling author, certified Executive Coach, and 2023 NASPA Pillar of the Profession, Shelia brings more than three decades of leadership experience to her work, including 16 years in executive leadership.

Institutional Reps

Who are the Institutional Representatives? They are the backbone of SCWHE. They are volunteers at educational institutions across the state who actively promote the mission and goals of SCHWE among their institutions. Is your education institution represented? If so, drop your rep an email and make a commitment to meet and share what is new. Is your institution not represented? Email an Executive Board Member to find out how to become an Institutional Representative.

Join Us