K. Renee Horton, Ph.D., a space launch system quality engineer with NASA and a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion in science, technology, engineering and math, will deliver remarks at the 14th annual HIGHER Ground Women's Leadership Conference at Virginia Commonwealth University.

This daylong conference — hosted by the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs — will focus on a theme of “not waiting to lead: inspiring, energizing and empowering women.” It will be held virtually Friday, Nov. 6.

“Women are prepared and eager to lead but often told to hurry up and wait; they set the gold standard for leadership but continue to be relegated to second place,” said Elizabeth P. Marlowe, Ph.D., assistant director of the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute. “This conference is designed to create space for women to break free of restrictive leadership models and take first place.”

The event will feature a variety of speakers and workshops, with a keynote address by Horton.