Women in Leadership Circle

UC Berkeley’s Women in Leadership Circle (WILC) is an inclusive community for Cal alumnae in the Bay Area. Established to bridge the gender gap in leadership roles, WILC provides a dynamic platform for women to build lasting relationships, hone their leadership skills, advocate for themselves, and foster professional and personal growth.

Started as a pilot in 2017 and formally launched in 2020 to coincide with the “150 Years of Women at Berkeley” celebration, WILC has welcomed hundreds of Cal alumnae who are — or aspire to be — leaders in their respective fields. Members enjoy the benefits of intergenerational mentorship and deepen their understanding of important issues of the day.

Circles hold at least two campus-organized events a year alongside smaller events organized by regional circle co-chairs. These gatherings may include:

  • faculty lectures
  • dinners
  • workshops
  • house parties
  • networking receptions
  • Cal game watch parties
  • and more!

Through these events, WILC provides a regular forum for alumnae to gather, learn, and connect.

Berkeley Social Sciences within the College of Letters & Science manages WILC, providing access to leading experts in economics, sociology, political science, and other fields. However, the program is open to all alumnae of the College of Letters & Science and other colleges and schools at UC Berkeley. Each Circle is distinct, reflecting the unique perspectives and culture of the region’s alumnae.

Your college years are a powerful influence on the rest of your life. Similarly, your connection to UC Berkeley should continue to enrich your life long after graduation.

Are you interested in joining one of our Circles? Read the FAQ below then contact Callum Rutherford.

Attendees at a Cal women's basketball game hold a pink breast cancer research sign that says "Cal: United in the Fight"

WILC members cheer on the Cal women's basketball team in 2025.

Cal Circles Event

Emi Nakamura, Chancellor's Professor of Economics, discusses inflation in a Women in Leadership Circle event.

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Peninsula Circle

The beaches and cliffs of the Pacific Ocean near Montara, CA

The Peninsula Circle offers opportunities to engage with other proud Cal alums who are just out of easy commuting range to campus. This group specializes in professional networking opportunities and faculty talks.

Our inaugural Circle began in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties, reclaiming rival turf near Stanford. In 2017, UC Berkeley’s Division of Social Sciences launched a listening tour across California to learn more about the needs of our alumnae. We called it Women in Leadership and were thrilled with the turnout and feedback. Stemming from this effort, we brought women from the university together to form a community of women supporting campus and each other for a pilot program in the Peninsula timed to the 150 Years of Women at Berkeley anniversary.

Seventy alumnae participated in the pilot Circle, which has now grown to over 100 members. Even amid a pandemic, the group held a virtual student career forum, mentored 47 students, produced an equity and inclusion guidebook, and met every other month on Zoom. Every person surveyed reported back that the Circle helped them feel more connected to each other and to UC Berkeley.

Meet our Peninsula Co-Chairs

Dee Dee Dickey

Dee Dee graduated with degrees in social sciences and law. After a career in environmental law, Dee Dee became a coach for professionals who want to thrive at work and in life. She is a lifelong learner passionate about helping people and organizations reach their potential. Read her interview!

Mindy Morton

Mindy Morton majored in political science. Today, she is a partner with the Procopio law firm and litigates intellectual property, internet, and healthcare disputes. Mindy sang with the University Chorus and the Glee Club at UC Berkeley and serves as the class of 1994 Reunion Chair. Read her interview!

Britt Sellin

Britt Sellin

Britt majored in psychology, leading to a 30+ year career in human resources. She has held a variety of senior roles at Cloudera, VMware, and Sun Microsystems. Britt is passionate about giving back to the community and encouraging people to be the best they can be. Read her interview!

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North Bay Circle

A view of Tiburon, Belvedere, and Mount Tamalpais from Angel Island

Following the successful Peninsula Circle pilot, WILC expanded to the north in early 2021. Our North Bay Circle covers a large region that includes Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma counties. Many of our events take place in Sonoma or Marin counties.

The North Bay Circle places more emphasis on social and professional connections and on forming friendships with alumnae of all generations. Membership has blossomed, now reaching around 140 people.

Meet our North Bay Co-Chairs

A woman wearing a green shirt and white jacket smiles

Cynthia Larsen

A political science alumna with a law degree, Cynthia has worked in K-12 education. She currently serves as the Director of the Academic Support Center at Marin Catholic High School. Cynthia is interested in gender equity and helping marginalized students. Read her interview!

Stephan and Staci Pastis

Staci Pastis

Staci is a history alumna who serves as the president of the Cal Alumni Club of Sonoma County. Her research and writing skills led her to work with Fortune 500 companies, local historical societies, and museums. Her philanthropy allows her family of four alums to honor their past while fueling future generations’ dreams. Read her profile!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is expected of Circle members?

We strive to create a positive, collaborative, and respectful environment. UC Berkeley has a diverse network of alumnae, and members must be comfortable engaging people with different backgrounds and viewpoints.

We ask that members commit to a full year of participation (understanding you may miss the occasional event) and commit to fiscally support UC Berkeley at a level that is comfortable for you. If you do not have a preferred campus beneficiary, we recommend finding your department’s annual fund on Give to Berkeley...

What do the regional co-chairs do?

Regional co-chairs are volunteer leaders who set the overall culture and goals for their Circle. They invite their contacts, welcome new members, and help plan events. Regional co-chairs also relay participant feedback to campus.

I would like to host a circle event or meeting. What does that entail?

Hosting an event means opening up your home to other women in the Circle and providing drinks and snacks. Please discuss your idea with one of your Circle’s regional co-chairs, who are experienced managing similar events for this audience. They will ask clarifying questions and put you in contact with campus staff.

I would love to mentor students. Is there a mentorship component?

Many alumnae have expressed interest in mentoring students, and we would love to help you connect. We can partner together to map out a plan for the year ahead. Our Peninsula Circle’s Mentorship and First Gen subgroup, for example, held virtual career forums and mentored dozens of students. Some Circle members also take part in the Social Sciences Career Readiness Internship Program, which includes mentorship, training, internship placement, and career roundtables. Please discuss your ideas with your Circle’s regional co-chairs.

Can I bring my spouse, friend, or family member to WILC events, even if they’re not women?

Yes! Though WILC focuses on building a strong women’s network, we welcome all respectful guests of our members.

How do I join?

Thanks for your interest! Applicants start by filling out an interest survey. Your personal information will not be shared with any third parties. Our intent is to ensure that the Circle is a good match for your interests and expectations.

Please email Callum Rutherford to begin the process of joining WILC. Welcome aboard!