Kristina Padilla finds community in Yale's Women's Leadership Program

Kristina Padilla M.A., LAADC, ICAADC 🏳️⚧️🌈Mx.Padilla has had a rewarding career promoting mental health and recovery care. Her journey, which included leading California’s innovative Offender Mentor Certification Program, brought her to the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals, where she serves as both the Vice President of Education and Vice President of Strategic Development.

Driven to strengthen her leadership skills, she traveled across the country last year to participate in Yale’s Women’s Leadership Program.

Can you tell me about your career journey and current role?

I've had a really awesome career journey. I started out in education, then moved into strategic development. I'm currently a vice president of both education and strategic development. In my current role, I'm responsible for creating and implementing educational programs and initiatives that help our company meet its goals, in addition to developing strategic partnerships.

What motivated you to participate in the Women’s Leadership Program?

I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn more about how to be an effective leader. The program has been very beneficial and I have learned a lot about myself and my potential as a leader. I was also motivated to participate in the Women’s Leadership Program because of the opportunity to attend Yale on campus and be a part of an elite group of 45 women from all over the world.

What did you enjoy the most about your program experience?

The most enjoyable part of the program for me was the relationships I formed with the other participants. We came from all over the world and had such a diversity of experience. It was great to be able to meet women leaders from so many different fields and countries. Even after the program ended, we've kept in touch and it's been really wonderful.

What learnings from the program have you applied to your organization?

The program taught me a lot about how to leverage my strengths to benefit my organization. I've learned how to harness relationships and use them to achieve my goals. I also have a much better understanding of how to create a self-development plan that will help me continue to grow and succeed in the future.

What would you say to someone who is determining whether the Women’s Leadership Program is right for them?

I would say that the Women's Leadership Program is an excellent choice for anyone looking to develop their leadership skills. The program provides a supportive environment where participants can learn from each other and grow as leaders. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in furthering their career. You will make long-lasting relationships with the participants and learn a lot about yourself as a leader. The program is structured in such a way that you enjoy every moment, session, class, lecture, and professional environment. There's no time like the present to join the Women's Leadership Program. By enrolling, you'll join a community of powerful women who are making waves and breaking glass ceilings. Don't miss your opportunity to rise up and take your rightful place in society.

Registration is open for the April and June sessions of the Women's Leadership Program. To learn more, visit Yale SOM Executive Education's website.