Center for Women’s Global Leadership, Rutgers University

Leadership Succession, Strategic Transition, and Organizational Capacity Building

The Center for Women’s Global Leadership (CWGL) at Rutgers University, an internationally recognized hub for women’s rights advocacy, was preparing for a foundational leadership transition. With the impending departure of its esteemed founder, CWGL faced the dual challenge of sustaining its global impact while ensuring internal stability, continuity, and long-term institutional capacity. The organization needed a thoughtful succession strategy that aligned stakeholders and prepared the infrastructure for new leadership.

Challenge

Cora Group led a strategic advisory initiative focused on guiding CWGL through this pivotal period of change. In close collaboration with the founder, senior staff, and Rutgers University leadership, we designed a multifaceted engagement that included:

  • Strategic planning and team-building sessions to align internal and external stakeholders around a shared vision for the Center’s future

  • Executive coaching for current and emerging leaders to build capacity and confidence during the transition

  • Governance advisement to strengthen organizational structures and clarify roles and decision-making processes

  • Active support of the University-led leadership selection process, including participation in committee meetings and development of reports and recommendations

Our approach prioritized collaborative discovery, inclusive dialogue, and practical planning to ensure CWGL’s legacy and impact would continue to thrive.

Solution

This initiative successfully positioned CWGL for sustained influence and operational strength in the global women’s rights space.

Key outcomes included:

  • A smooth and values-aligned leadership transition that honored the organization’s legacy while embracing future potential

  • Clearer strategic priorities and internal alignment across staff, leadership, and university partners

  • Strengthened governance and infrastructure to support decision-making, collaboration, and future growth

  • Renewed commitment from stakeholders and staff, ensuring CWGL remains a leading voice in global gender justice and human rights

The Center emerged from this transition well-equipped for its next chapter, with stronger internal cohesion and a sharpened focus on its mission and global role.

Outcome