IFWE is the International Forum for Women in E-learning presented by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA). Recognizing the role of women leaders in the field, USDLA is proud to present the fifth IFWE Conference which will be held November 27-29, 2012 in Bonita Springs, Florida at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa.

As a forum, IFWE includes open discussions, a voicing of ideas, and a number of presentations involving conversations that include audience participation. It is designed to tap into the resources of the attendees as well as other experts in their profession.

IFWE is an opportunity to share ideas, learn about e-learning programs and products, discuss issues, and gain a better understanding of being a successful leader. It also provides attendees with a wonderful opportunity to establish new relationships and contacts, find a mentor or become a mentor, and visit with old friends involved in e-learning. The format of the event allows attendees to learn about relevant topics from many different points of view.

IFWE is a time for attendees to listen, think, talk, network, reflect, dream and learn.

This gathering allows attendees, at all stages of their careers, to discuss their ideas with each other and with experienced women leaders from corporate, government, education, and consulting fields. The program includes meaningful, keynote and panel discussions, poster and concurrent informational sessions, as well as sessions and networking activities particularly relevant to women. The intimate format makes it possible for all attendees to be actively involved in participating in the IFWE community.

IFWE themes rise above daily operations and decisions and move us to realizations about leadership, life balance, values, inclusiveness, collaboration, and global cooperation.

• The first IFWE event, held in Phoenix, Arizona in 2005, brought 100 women together under the theme Dancing on the Glass Ceiling. The program celebrated the success women have had in leadership roles in distance learning and training.
• The second IFWE conference theme was Riding the Waves of Change and was held in Galveston, Texas in 2006. The program focused on the many changes women go through on their path to leadership. This event was designed to help attendees become expert surfers who rarely have a wipeout!
• IFWE 2007 was just as inspiring with its Catching the Dream theme. The program was designed to inspire attendees to dream of their potential as well as that of their respective organizations. Over 120 women participated in sessions and activities - and each left with her own dream catcher to remember the event.
• The 2010 IFWE theme, Rise to the Challenge! If We Don't, Who Will?, resonated with attendees as they challenged themselves to deliver outstanding e-learning programs while taking care of themselves mentally, physically and spiritually. Attendees virtually connected with colleagues in Berlin during a closing session!

In keeping with the IFWE tradition of selecting a theme that has ties to the conference location, we are pleased to announce that the IFWE 2012 Planning Committee has selected Navigating the Currents of E-learning as this year's theme.

If we share ideas and combine our experiences, what advancements can we fuel?
If we focus on distance learning, what directions can we set?
If we dare to be creative, what freedom can we find?
If we draw upon a woman's way of knowing, what difference will it make?
If we collaborate, what issues can we promote?
If we reach out, how inclusive can we be?
If we don't try something, how will we ever know?