FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

McAllen, TX (April 17, 2026)—Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN), a non-partisan non-profit educating, organizing, and inspiring women to seek public office, will host a Women’s Political Leadership Training in McAllen, Texas on April 17, 2026, at Casa de Palmas.

The half-day event will bring women from across the Rio Grande Valley together to expand their leadership impact—whether they are considering running for office, currently serving in leadership roles, or looking to take the next step in public service.

Designed to provide practical skills and meaningful connections, the training will feature breakout sessions and panel discussions covering topics including leadership presence and media engagement, fundraising strategies, navigating campaign setbacks, understanding pathways to public office, and building strong professional networks. Attendees will also have opportunities to connect with local exhibitors and receive free professional headshots on site.

“We are excited to bring WPLN’s leadership training to the Rio Grande Valley and support the incredible women already making an impact in their communities,” said Larissa Martinez, Founder and President of WPLN. “This event is about giving women the tools, confidence, and connections they need to step into leadership and shape the future of their communities.”

The event is supported by a host committee of women leaders from across the region, including Miriam Cepeda-Gelman, Deborah Cordova, Maribel Guerrero, Morgan LaMantia, Dr. Jennifer Mendoza-Culbertson, Sarah Sagredo-Hammond, and Hidalgo County Commissioner Ellie Torres.

The training will feature confirmed speakers Allison Castle (Castle Communications), Larissa Martinez (WPLN), Morgan Bonwell (Right Strategies), Michelle Phillips, (Lime Rock Resources), and Sara Marie Ridley (Numinar), with additional speakers to be announced.

The Jane Nelson Institute for Women's Leadership at Texas Woman's University will sponsor a table of students from the region to attend this event! Organizations interested in supporting the event can participate through sponsorship opportunities designed to provide visibility among emerging women leaders in the region.

For more information about the event, sponsorship opportunities, or to register, visit: womenspublicleadership.net/events.

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About Women’s Public Leadership Network

Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that educates, organizes, and inspires women to seek public office at all levels across the U.S. and become effective leaders. We are building a community of support for women leaders, offering expert training, mentorship, and insider knowledge to help women pursue public leadership positions in all 50 states. Our national network of leaders and advisors believe in pragmatic, commonsense solutions at every level of government across the country and are at the forefront of policy decisions that will impact businesses large and small, across all industries. Connect with WPLN (@WPLNetwork) on all platforms or visit us at womenspublicleadership.net to learn more.

Contact: Sunita Theiss | media@womenspublicleadership.net