WOMEN LEAD Florence Academy:
Global Perspectives on Women in Leadership
May 10-13, 2026
Building on the success of previous gatherings, the Gonzaga University Women Lead Florence Conference is a distinctive leadership retreat designed for women seeking global perspectives and professional growth. Set in the historic and culturally rich city of Florence, Italy, the conference offers an immersive environment for reflection, learning and connection.
Participants engage with distinguished speakers, participate in hands-on workshops and enjoy curated excursions that highlight the region’s vibrant history and artistic legacy. The conference fosters meaningful dialogue and connection among professional women from the Spokane community and beyond.
Attendees explore contemporary leadership themes, exchange insights and leave with renewed inspiration and practical tools for personal and professional impact, all while building a network of women from across the globe.
Registration is now open for the 2026 event.
2026 Program Itinerary (Subject to Change)
| Sunday, May 10 | Monday May 11 | Tuesday, May 12 | Wednesday, May 13 |
| 9 AM - 12 PM | 9 AM -12 PM | 10 AM - 3 PM | |
| Workshop | Workshop with Denise Hossom | Guided Tour: Antinori Winery | |
| Speaker: Consul General Daniela Ballard | A conversation with Antinori President | ||
| Speaker: Carlotta Ferrari, Destination Florence | Albiera Antinori, plus lunch at | ||
| Buffet lunch at GIF | Rinuccio restaurant | ||
| Guided Tour: Accademia Galleria | |||
| 4 PM - 6 PM | 3:30 PM - 5 PM | ||
| appertiv social | Guided Tour | ||
| Scuola del Cuoio (Leather School) | |||
| meeting with Francesca Gori | |||
| 6 PM - 8 PM | 6 PM - 8 PM | ||
| Guided Walking Tour | Italian Cooking Class | ||
| with Cristina Bibbiani |
Get a glimpse of the experience by exploring highlights from the April 2025 event.