National League of Cities’ Women in Municipal Government Summer Conference highlights leadership development, public safety and collaboration among women local elected officials
BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — Women local elected officials and municipal leaders from across the country gathered in Broken Arrow, Okla., June 24–26 for the National League of Cities (NLC) 2026 Women in Municipal Government (WIMG) Summer Conference.
Hosted under the theme “LeadHERship Delivers,” the conference brought together women leaders to share best practices, strengthen professional networks and explore solutions to challenges facing communities nationwide. Conference programming focused on leadership development, wellbeing, personal and public safety, preventing and responding to domestic violence and strengthening civic leadership.
Attendees also participated in discussions highlighting municipal-tribal collaboration, community resilience and the contributions of Native American women leaders serving communities across Oklahoma and the nation.
“Broken Arrow is honored to welcome women leaders from across the country for the 2026 Women in Municipal Government Summer Conference,” said Debra Wimpee, Mayor, Broken Arrow, Okla. “Local government is where leadership meets action, and this conference highlights the important role women play in strengthening communities, solving challenges and building opportunities for residents. We are proud to showcase our city, share Oklahoma hospitality and host conversations that will inspire the next generation of local leaders.”
Hosted under the leadership of 2026 WIMG President Lisa Ford, Ward 2 Councilor of Broken Arrow, the conference immediately followed the Oklahoma Chapter of Women in Municipal Government retreat, demonstrating the city’s continued efforts to elevate women serving in local government across the country.
“The theme of this year’s conference, ‘LeadHERship Delivers,’ reflects what women leaders do every day in communities across America,” said Ford. “Women in local government are leading with purpose, building consensus, addressing complex challenges and delivering results for residents. I’m especially proud that we gathered in Oklahoma, where leaders from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives came together to learn from one another and strengthen the future of local leadership.”
Attendees had the opportunity to explore local projects supporting economic development, including New Orleans Square, a revitalization project focused on mixed-use development and community activation; Sunset Amphitheater, an entertainment venue designed to expand cultural and economic activity in the region; and the Broken Arrow Senior Center, a community space that enhances services, engagement, and quality of life for older adults.
“Oklahoma’s unique history and strong connections to Tribal Nations made Broken Arrow a meaningful place to host this conversation. Women leaders, including Native American women serving their communities, bring valuable perspectives on resilience, collaboration and service. This conference creates an opportunity to share those experiences, build relationships and explore how local leaders can work together to create stronger, safer and more inclusive communities,” said Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid, Tempe, Ariz., Second Vice President, NLC.
Women in Municipal Government is one of six constituency groups within NLC and serves as a forum for communication, networking and leadership development among women local elected officials.
Learn more about NLC’s Women in Municipal Government constituency group.
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The National League of Cities (NLC) is the voice of America’s cities, towns and villages, representing more than 200 million people across the country. NLC works to strengthen local leadership, influence federal policy and drive innovative solutions. Stay connected with NLC on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.
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