What is Lead Virginia?
Each year Lead Virginia offers an unparalleled opportunity for a select group of leaders to surround themselves with the Commonwealth’s most experienced and talented professionals. Modeled on the theory of social capital, this nonprofit and non-partisan organization immerses participants in the distinct regions of the Commonwealth. Lead Virginia attracts senior level professionals who seek a deeper understanding of the issues and opportunities facing Virginia. Participants interact directly with local and state leaders to examine each region’s unique responses to the issues of Economy, Education and Health. Surrounded by deliberative and dynamic regional leadership, each class learns that leaders must embrace their role in advancing Virginia’s future and engage in that shared responsibility.
What We Teach — What You Learn
Every Lead Virginia class creates a unique bond as they step outside of their professional niches and share the experience of exploring Virginia’s diverse regions, each with its distinct opportunities and challenges. This forms a strong network statewide of high performing, solutions-oriented leaders who become a priceless resource to our businesses and communities – creating a virtuous cycle benefiting the regions and the Commonwealth.
Lead Virginia classes forge the resource of social capital through an important network of relationships and insight that leaves each participant better prepared to lead their business, community and Commonwealth. Alumni continue to gain insight and strengthen this powerful resource with alumni events throughout the year.
Lead Virginia alumni currently serve in hundreds of state and local appointed, advisory and elected positions throughout the Commonwealth. Governors look to Lead Virginia alumni as a rich resource of citizens with a balanced, statewide perspective for service on gubernatorial boards and commissions. Alumni are transforming their communities through the deep reservoir of talent and expertise they bring to their communities and their Commonwealth.
Incorporation and Nonprofit Status
Lead Virginia incorporated in March 2005 as a charitable and educational organization. It is nonprofit and nonpartisan and maintains an office in downtown Richmond, Virginia. Lead Virginia is recognized as exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions to Lead Virginia are deductible under Section 170 of the code and Lead Virginia is qualified to receive tax-deductible bequests, devises, transfers or gifts under section 2055, 2106 or 2522 of the Code. Lead Virginia's Employer Identification Number is 59-3806367.