Leadership West Virginia started in 1991 with the first class.
If you, or someone you know, may benefit from, contribute to, and be interested in experiencing Leadership West Virginia, please submit a nomination. Program information and an application will be forwarded to each nominee. Self-nominations are encouraged, however, employer support is required for acceptance into the program. Learn more
Participation in Leadership West Virginia is determined by a competitive online application process with the number of applicants exceeding the number of available openings. A selection committee of members of the board of directors reviews all Leadership West Virginia applications. The committee is particularly interested in the extent to which the applicant has been involved in his/her community and in the applicant’s interest in continuing and/or expanding involvement at home and on a broader scale. Applications will be accepted until November 15, and applicants will be notified about acceptance by the end of January the following year.
You may view the application here, without logging in, and review what information you will need to complete the application.
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A copy of your submitted application will be emailed to you as soon as you submit your application. If you would like to keep an additional PDF copy of your application for your records, please be sure to click the PRINT (OR SAVE AS PDF) button before you submit your application! Once you click the SUBMIT APPLICATION button, you will no longer be able to view, edit, or print your application. Only an admin will be able to view, edit, or print your application for you.
A selection committee reviews the applications of statewide nominees from whom the final group of participants is chosen. Those selected must have demonstrated skills and experience in civic activities, public affairs and in their professional careers. Although the selected participants will be from different regions, have varied professional backgrounds and possess diverse talents, they all must have one common characteristic – an abiding interest in West Virginia and her future.
The program is held over the course of eight months and classes meet two days a month (Thursday and Friday) with optional activities to be available the Wednesday afternoon/evening prior. Participants travel to several parts of the state and locations vary year to year. Plan on sessions in Charleston, Eastern Panhandle, New River Gorge, Morgantown, Wheeling, Lewisburg and other locations. Each session is made of three segments; a specific topic important to WV, leadership training, and getting to know the area we visit.
The average size of a class is 50 people.
If accepted into the Leadership West Virginia Program, you will be billed for the tuition fee of $3,000. The fee covers costs for all required program events excluding lodging, transportation, and meals en route. Tuition is non-refundable.
Leadership West Virginia seeks to have class diversity among all ethnic groups, ages, genders, professions, backgrounds and geographic areas of the state.
Yes. Scholarships are available for partial tuition and full-tuition scholarships. One full scholarship is available for K-12 professionals and one for city or country government employees. Scholarships are based on need indicated in the application.
