Women+ in Technology
Women+ in Technology
Welcome to the Big Ten Academic Alliance Women+ in IT Community!
The WIT peer group was created in 2018 and sponsored by BTAA CIOs to strengthen recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in IT across the Big Ten. This diverse group has been created to expand connections among members and provide a place for respectful dialogue, timely questions, and broad sharing of best practices and insights.
This group is open to staff, researchers, faculty, and administrators at Big Ten Academic Alliance universities.
WIT+ Mentorship Program
Are you interested in growing your career or helping others grow theirs? Applications for both mentors and mentees for the 2026 cohort are now being accepted!
Program Details
- Runs January–July 2026
- Open to all Big Ten staff and faculty (make sure to register with your .edu email!)
- 1-hour commitment to monthly mentoring sessions
- Monthly (option) drop-in sessions and a new Teams networking group
Note: Applicants can submit a form for one or both roles; please ensure you can commit to the time required.
Priority deadline: Apply by November 10, 2025, or until capacity is reached. Pairings will be made based on the order of submission and the availability of compatible mentor/mentees.

Save the Date: Virtual Mini-Conference - Resume-Building
📅 February 25, 2026 | 🕚 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM CST
Join us for an engaging virtual mini-conference designed to elevate your resume and help you shine. Whether you're refreshing your resume or preparing for your next big career move, this session will provide:
- Actionable strategies to highlight your skills and experience
- Expert insights from industry professionals
- Inspiration to help you stand out in a competitive job market
Don't miss this opportunity to gain practical tips and boost your confidence as you take the next step in your career.
More details, including registration information, coming soon.
Coffee Catch-ups
Join us for a series of engaging conversations designed to spark ideas and strengthen connections across the Big Ten. These sessions are a great way to learn, share, and grow together.

November 19, 2025
10:30 - 11:00 a.m. CT
Pace of Digital Change and Keeping Up
Facilitated by: Jennifer Swaney, University of Michigan
Discuss the biggest challenges and best strategies for keeping up with rapid digital change in higher education IT, and how we can support each other through these transformations.

December 17, 2025
10:30 - 11:00 a.m. CT
Network and Brainstorm Coffee Catch-Up Topics
Facilitated by: Renee Petrina, Indiana University
Before the holiday break, let's gather to network and brainstorm Coffee Catch-Up topics.

January 21, 2026
10:30 - 11:00 a.m. CT
Self-care!
Facilitated by: Sarah Cross, Northwestern University
Let's start off the new year with some self-care. What is your self-care mantra for this year, and how will you engage with it?
Staff Contacts
Lori Frost
Program Manager
Programs Team
Phone: (217) 333 9228
Email: ciosupport@btaa.org
