Laura Calcote, the Wimberley City Secretary, graduated from the 2021 Texas Women’s Leadership Institute in December. She was one of 20 women executives who were chosen to participate in the program, which prepares and inspires women to become city managers in Texas.
“Ms. Calcote was selected from a very competitive field of local government professionals from around the state,” said Karen Daly, Executive Director, Texas Women’s Leadership Institute.
Calcote completed the coursework and successfully graduated from the institute through participation in virtual and in-person sessions, course discussions, tours and completing assigned books. She also met other Texas women leaders in the city management profession.
“As part of the leadership team, I am honored to continue advancing my knowledge and skills in city management to maximize the service I provide to the citizens of Wimberley. Being among the growing number of women in government leadership inspires me to reach my goals and support those who want to follow in my footsteps,” Calcote said.
Calcote has served as Wimberley City Secretary since November 2017. She manages city elections, board meetings and maintains official records for the city, among many other duties that support the administrative functions of governance.
“The combination of leadership assessments, tours, and case studies provides a well-rounded experience in learning more about the intricacies of the city management profession and creating a network of colleagues who will support each other in the future,” Daly said.
The Texas Women’s Leadership Institute was created by Texas Women Leading Government to increase the number of women who are ready to become city managers. The program is financially supported by the Texas City Management Association and is part of a national trend of academies addressing the lack of female representation in the chief executive role in cities across Texas.
