Wilkinson Scholarship for Leaders
 2026 Aspire Leadership Conference

The Wilkinson Scholarship applauds administrative professionals seeking to grow their leadership capacity and make a lasting impact on the profession. This opportunity honors Char Wilkinson, a dedicated IAAP member for over 50 years and the Foundation’s first Philanthropist of the Year. Scholarship recipients will attend the 2026 Aspire Leadership Conference and participate in high-impact sessions designed specifically for administrative professionals.

Scholarships Include:

• In-person registration to Aspire Leadership Conference
• Four nights of hotel accommodations
• $700 travel allowance
• 25 CAP Recertification Points

Attendees will participate in powerful, engaging sessions designed specifically for administrative professionals. Featured topics include: Authentic Professional Presence, Foundational Self-Awareness and EQ, and Crucial Conversations 2.0. Sessions are led by an executive trainer and facilitated by experienced administrative professionals who guide discussions and help translate key insights through an “administrative lens,” ensuring practical application in your current role.

Candidate Criteria

All candidates for the Wilkinson Scholarship for Leaders are expected to meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be an active IAAP member for at least the past two consecutive years.
• Hold an active Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) credential at the time of application.
  *Please note: This is a requirement for scholarship eligibility only. The Aspire Leadership Conference is open to all administrative professionals.
• Current IAAP board members and leadership roles such as chairs and chair-elects, and anyone who has received any foundation scholarship in the last three years, are ineligible.

Application Information (Closed)

Applications Open: April 1, 2026
Applications Close: April 30, 2026
Recipient Notification: May 25, 2026

Interested applicants will complete a written application. All applicants will be notified via email.

Questions

Staff Contact: Danelle Hermesch
Email: danelle.hermesch@iaap-hq.org