Joanne Goodwin () received an invitation from the White House to attend a day-long conference focusing on girls' leadership and civic education. She will be joining a select group of educators, scholars, and elected officials to examine how to promote civic learning and engagement, as well as encourage the participation of women and girls in democracy. In addition, the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University will host a meeting of national network partners, which educates college women about the political process and effective leadership. UNLV's Women's Research Institute of Nevada was the first institute in the Southwest to be invited to join the network more than 10 years ago. Today, the network has grown to 23 partners.