What Would Xena Do? ASWE Knows the Answer

At WCET, we know that leading in digital learning takes strength, strategy, and sometimes even a warrior’s mindset. That’s why we’re thrilled to share this post about the Annual Summit for Women in eLearning (ASWE). ASWE, held in conjunction with WCET 2025, is a post-conference-conference and a growing community dedicated to lifting women up in every corner of our field.

In this post, ASWE champion Darcy Hardy reflects on the origins of this event and delves into how it has grown from its early days as IFWE into the experience it is today. With a nod to the spirit of Xena, Warrior Princess, she reminds us that leadership isn’t just about knowledge and expertise…it’s also about showing up for each other.

We hope you will join us in Denver this fall – let’s call this post our rallying call! Read on to learn how this year’s summit will remind us all of the strength we carry – as we lead, as we learn, and as we live.

Enjoy the read,
Lindsey Downs, WCET

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In 2002/2003, I had the honor and privilege of serving as President of the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA). During my tenure, a few women on the Board of Directors joined me in suggesting USDLA create and host a new conference – the International Forum for Women in E-Learning (IFWE).

We wanted it to be a way to bring eLearning leaders and up-and-coming leaders together to share experiences and best practices while providing an outlet for mentoring and networking. We also wanted an event that would attract eLearning practitioners from all walks of life: Higher Ed, K-12, Corporate, Government, TeleHealth, etc. Course design, marketing, management, multimedia, instructional designers, technologists, faculty, and administrators.

IFWE -> ASWE

The first IFWE was held in 2004, and it went on to be hosted every other year until the pandemic. In 2021, IFWE found a new home with WCET and was re-imagined as the Annual Summit for Women in eLearning (ASWE), continuing its legacy but with a fresh identity and purpose. The full ASWE conference is held in odd-numbered years and is tied to the WCET Annual Meeting. During even-numbered years, WCET hosts a reception for ASWE/IFWE alums to reunite with previous attendees.

ASWE differs from other women-focused, national conferences. Per our motto and recognizing the role of women leaders in digital learning, the ASWE community connects, learns and supports others in digital learning: As We lead, As We learn, As We lean, AS WE live.

Each ASWE Summit includes a curated set of sessions, panels, and workshops that address substantive issues in the digital learning space. In addition, ASWE includes sessions that inspire us to be healthy and productive leaders, with topics such as how to find our voice at the table, ways to balance work and life responsibilities, and tactics for a healthier and less stressful life. The ASWE planners intentionally balance affective and tactical presentations, ensuring that attendees leave with practical strategies and person inspiration. This allows for a truly holistic experience.

Bringing our Vision to Life – a Truly Supportive Community

One of IFWE’s original goals was to provide an environment for mentoring up-and-coming women leaders in the field. We were and are still fortunate to have access to women in leadership roles who could participate in the conference and build relationships with attendees. So much has changed since 2003, yet so much is the same. Women still face obstacles (some self-inflicted) in their road to leadership, and too many, especially younger women, are unsure where to find support (and trust).

ASWE is a safe place to share stories and experiences and know you will have an attentive and supportive audience. One of my favorite examples of this was in 2021 in New Orleans. One of the attendees was preparing to present her dissertation proposal shortly after the conference. Without knowing other attendees, she casually asked around to see if a few would allow her to practice her presentation with them. Next thing you know, I entered a room and found six women actively listening to her presentation and providing feedback. To me, this demonstrates the networking and friendship ASWE provides.

Importantly: ASWE is fun! In addition to the engaging sessions, we enjoy the ASWE Book Club discussions and morning activities such as yoga, running/walking, and meditation. The networking spills into group dinners and our ASWE After Hours, an optional evening of fun times, contests, and movies.

In 2008, Ellen Wagner was the IFWE keynote speaker. She used the fictional character of Xena, Warrior Princess, to make a series of points in her speech that sometimes leadership required a metaphorical warrior’s mindset. She provided the attendees with a “checklist” for staying strong and focused when facing uncertain conditions.

For those unfamiliar with Xena, she was known for fighting evil and defending the defenseless. Her stories elevated how we can care about others and empathize with their situations. Throughout Ellen’s presentation, the audience was asked, “What would Xena do?” in response to various professional scenarios described. 

Xena was a true warrior who fought for the greater good. Leaders in digital learning are a lot like Xena. We are bold, resilient, and guided by purpose. Asking ourselves, “What would Xena do?” is a great way to reflect on how we lead and connect with others. This spirit captures the essence of ASWE perfectly.

At ASWE Rise 2025, we’re bringing together women from across digital learning to celebrate leadership, spark bold ideas, and build lasting connections. This will be our space to connect, grow, and be inspired. ASWE isn’t just a conference! It’s a community. It’s a time to reflect on your journey and celebrate the impact women are making across digital learning.

Join us in Denver this October! We can’t wait to rise together!

This post was written by Darcy Hardy.

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