Applications to the Virginia Rural Leadership Institute are due by 11:59pm on Friday, February 28!

Encourage Private Sector, Non-Profit, and Government Leaders to Apply Today!

Thank you to all our friends in Rural Virginia who are sending in nominations and helping spread the word about the Virginia Rural Leadership Institute (VRLI)!

VRLI is an initiative put forward by the Virginia Rural Center. It is the first and only program in the Commonwealth that focuses entirely on retaining and attracting rural Virginians, by developing leaders who are innovative, responsible, civic minded and build strong regional communities. Applications are due by 11:59PM Friday, February 28!

VRLI not only invests in rural leadership – the program also has a proven return on investment for rural communities. A key component of the curriculum is the design of a Community Impact Project to be implemented after Graduation. The Community Impact Projects designed by the 2024 VRLI Cohort are already making an impact in their communities – Learn more about the 2024 VRLI Alumni and their Community Impact Projects on our website!

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Over the course of four sessions, Cohort Members will receive professional leadership and economic development training that equips community leaders with the skills they need to lead long-term economic advancement in their community and region. The program also seeks to increase cooperation, collaboration, and coordination across a broad array of organizations and sectors. The sessions for the 2025 VRLI Cohort are:

Session 1 – Southside Virginia

May 7, 8 & 9

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Session 2 – Southwest Virginia

July 9, 10 & 11

Session 3 – Shenandoah Valley

September 17, 18 & 19

 

Session 4 – Middle Peninsula/Northern Neck

October – To Be Determined

For more information about VRLI, please email:

Chandler Vaughan

Virginia Rural Center

Virginia Rural Leadership Institute

VaRuralLeadership@cfrv.org