The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute

Applications are open for the Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI). Join us for this eight-month program that kicks off with a trip to Washington, D.C., on September 11th at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Conference!

The Minority Political Leadership Institute is designed specifically for individuals interested in issues important to minority communities, including community economics, political climate, civic engagement, and equity. It has been crafted to support current and emerging leaders like yourself in honing your skills, expanding your network, and advancing your professional journey.

Program Highlights:
● Leadership Workshops: Engage communities across Virginia in intensive and interactive program sessions and your understanding of the nature of leadership, public policy processes, and community change.
● Networking Opportunities: Meet and directly interact with state legislators, senior elected officials, appointed officials in the governor’s office, local officials, and leaders across the Commonwealth.
● Personalized Development: Assess and enhance current leadership skills in relationship to community needs, coalition building, conflict resolution, transformational leadership, cross-cultural competencies, and creating a vision for progress.
● Impactful Projects: Actively participate in the development of legislative solutions to address relevant issues impacting the minority community.

Key Dates:
● Application Deadline: September 2, 2024
● Program Start Date: September 6th (virtual)
● Duration: September 6, 2024 - April 11, 2025

We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you to this transformative program and supporting your journey as a leader.

Learn more and apply here: https://gehli.vcu.edu/programs/minority-political-leadership-institute/

Huge congratulations to our LUEP Director, Will Cockrell, for being named Educator of the Year at the American Planning Association, Virginia Chapter, Conference! Your dedication and tireless commitment to inspiring students is truly remarkable. Here’s to celebrating a champion of education who makes a difference every single day!

Will Cockrell, adjunct professor of Urban and Environmental Planning at the University of Virginia - School of Architecture, Senior Planner with EPR P.C., and the GEHLI Land Use Education Program Director, has been impacting students’ lives for over a decade. He is committed to their personal and professional development. One student comment says it best, “Professor Cockrell is very passionate and experienced in the planning field. His understanding of how local government shapes daily life, in everything he sees, is fascinating, and it's a skill I aspire to attain.”

Help us congratulate and celebrate Will!

Applications are open for the 2024-25 MPLI Program. Join us or share with your colleagues for this UNcommon Program for Today's Leaders!

The Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI) is designed to promote leadership development for individuals interested in issues important to minority communities, including community economics, political climate, civic engagement, and equity. MPLI offers insights regarding leadership legacy and culture, personal leadership, policy and legislative processes, responsible stewardship, public service, and integrity for future leaders. Each program year, participants engage and interact with communities across Virginia and learn about unique strengths and issues facing different regions of the Commonwealth.

We would love to have you join us for this worthwhile program that kicks off in Washington, D.C., on September 11th for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Conference!

Learn more and apply here: https://conta.cc/3WumefY

Congrats to our Program Coordinator, Ron Jones, on being elected to the VCU Staff Senate! Your passion and voice will be a huge asset to the VCU Community, and we are excited to see the positive changes you’ll bring to the table!

Exciting news! The Minority Political Leadership Institute is back and ready to empower the next generation of leaders. Join us in shaping the future with innovative strategies and fresh perspectives.

More details will come very soon, but applications are open!

Learn more and apply here: https://gehli.vcu.edu/programs/minority-political-leadership-institute/

The Application Deadline for the 2024 CMI Fall Course has been extended! Snag the last few spots for the Commonwealth Management Institute Fall session—applications are due August 8th! Join us or share with your colleagues!

CMI is a valued avenue for professional development for managers in Virginia state and local government, academic institutions, public, private and nonprofit organizations. CMI is about affecting positive change - in self, in others, and in your agency, and promotes the exchange of information, the development of creative ideas, and cooperation and future collaboration among program participants.

The CMI program offers a variety of leadership workshops and assessments catered to the needs of managers throughout the Commonwealth:
- 360-Degree Feedback Assessment
- DISC Assessment
- Recruiting, Onboarding, and Retaining Happy Employees
- Do the Right Thing: Ethics
- Difficult Conversations
-- and more!

"At some point in a state worker's career, they should be required to take a VCU professional development course. This class expounded on issues that are weakening agencies every day. I was allowed to listen and learn new strategies and skills which I plan to implement during the course of my career." -- CMI Participant

Learn more and apply here: https://conta.cc/4flCrg1

Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being over material or superficial gains. Protecting your peace is essential for a fulfilling life.

Congratulations to the Commonwealth Management Institute (CMI) graduating class of Summer 2024! Your commitment to the commonwealth, creative thinking, and personal growth have made a significant impact. GEHLI wishes you success in your promising futures as you embark on pioneering endeavors and continue to inspire as accomplished leaders.

Help us congratulate the CMI Summer 2024 graduates:
- Carolyse Andrews, Department of General Services
- Kathy Andrews, Department of Veteran Services
- Angela Beyke, Department of Transportation
- Daniel Cherkis, Virginia IT Agency
- Eryn Clarke, Department of Social Services
- Samantha Cohen Allen, Department of Veteran Services
- Yolanda Crewe, Virginia Community College System
- Ashley Daniel, Virginia State Corporation Commission
- Danyel Derricott, VCU Parking and Transportation
- Denise Dowdy, Department of Juvenile Justice
- Julianna Drumond, Department of the Blind and Vision Impaired
- Calvin Edwards, Department of Social Services
- Robert Gilstrap, Department of Education
- Samantha Glass, Department of Forensic Science
- Kathryn Goodman, Department of Health, Blue Ridge Health District
- Nathanial Griffin, Department of Labor and Industry
- Vickisha Harris, The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute
- John Henry, Department of Veteran Services
- Joseph Herring, Virginia Housing
- Linda Hines, Department of General Services
- Amelia Hulth, Department of Conservation and Recreation
- Scott Jaeger, Virginia IT Agency
- Christina Kohlbeck, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
- Jennifer MacArthur, Department of Criminal Justice Services
- Ann Majors, Motor Vehicle Dealer Board
- Jimmy Powell, Department of Taxation
- Robin Pulkkinen, Department of Emergency Management
- Terry Short, Department of Transportation
- Gene Stewart, Department of Emergency Management
- Alicia Styles, Department of Fire Programs
- Katie Vugdalic, Department of Emergency Management
- Heather Wheeler, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
- Aaron Wothe, Department of Corrections
- Andrew Wright, Department of Rail and Public Transportation
- Aisha Yededji, Department of Taxation

Only a few spots remain for the 2024 CMI Fall Course! Join us or send a member of your team for this dynamic development course.

The Fall 2024 Commonwealth Management Institute (CMI) is open for registration! CMI is a valued avenue for professional development for managers in Virginia state government. CMI is about affecting positive change - in self, in others, and in your agency and promotes the exchange of information, the development of creative ideas, and cooperation and future collaboration among program participants.

The CMI program offers a variety of leadership workshops and assessments catered to the needs of managers throughout the Commonwealth.
- 360-degree Feedback Assessment
- DISC Assessment
- Recruiting, Onboarding, and Retaining Happy Employees
- Do the Right Thing: Ethics
- Difficult Conversations
-- And more!

This program provides an excellent opportunity for professional development and networking while offering CEUs and SHRM PDCs. Learn more and apply by this Friday, July 26th, 2024.

Learn more and apply: https://conta.cc/4cDDAO5

Relying on others for validation can undermine your own sense of self-worth and autonomy. Recognizing your value and accomplishments independently can lead to a more fulfilling and confident life. It’s important to cultivate self-awareness and self-acceptance, rather than seeking constant external approval.

-Worth

Understanding rather than fearing allows us to approach challenges with curiosity and openness. When we seek to comprehend our experiences, we can transform fear into knowledge and growth. This mindset encourages resilience and empathy, fostering a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us.

Please join us in congratulating Elizabeth Povar, Principal of the RiverLink Group, on her appointment to the Board of Trustees of Senator Frank M. Ruff Center for Rural Virginia by the governor's administration! As a graduate of our VEI program 2004 and our CMI program 2000, we are so proud to see her continue to thrive and her accomplishments!

The importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges encourages a mindset of continuous progress and determination, no matter how difficult the circumstances.

Please join us in congratulating Phyllis Palmiero, Chief Financial Officer/Chief Operating Officer, Collegiate School, on her appointment to the Board of The Virginia College Building Authority by the governor's administration! As a graduate of our VEI program in 1997, we are so proud to see her continue to thrive and her accomplishments!

Many valuable things in life—a skill, a relationship, personal growth, or success—often require time, effort, and dedication. Striking towards something meaningful can be just as necessary as the result as it teaches patience, perseverance, and resilience, all crucial personal and professional development qualities.

Today, we celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave. As fireworks light up the sky and we gather with friends and family, let's remember the spirit of independence that brought us together as a nation.

May your day be filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Let's honor the courage and sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom and continue to strive for a brighter future for all.

Wishing everyone a safe and spectacular Independence Day!

A powerful reminder that while personal growth and healing are individual journeys, they don't have to be solitary ones. Seeking support from others can provide valuable perspectives, encouragement, and guidance along the way.

Today, we celebrate the incredible life and legacy of an outstanding leader, mentor, and trailblazer. Dr. Harris unwavering commitment to education, community service, and social justice has inspired countless individuals to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in the world.

Dr. Harris' remarkable achievements, including being the first African American woman to serve as a dean and later as the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at VCU, continue to pave the way for future generations. Her dedication to fostering inclusivity and empowering others is truly commendable.

On this special day, we honor her life, legacy and memories as we continue to foster future leaders in the making!

Congratulations to the Higher Ground Leadership Development Program Class of 2024!

We were thrilled to celebrate your leadership journeys, which were showcased through your remarkable portfolio presentations. Your dedication, hard work, and passion have truly shone through. We were also deeply inspired by the words of wisdom from our keynote speaker, Dr. Carmen Foster, who reminded us of the power and impact of visionary leadership.

Moreover, the connectedness and sisterhood formed within this group are a testament to the strength and unity that come from shared experiences and mutual support. As you move forward in your careers, may you carry the lessons learned and the bonds formed into your future endeavors.

Congratulations, HIGHER Ground, class of 2024:

- Misha Adams, ReefPoint Group
- Saidah Adkins, United Methodist Family Services
- Turqueya Asante, People ROI, LLC
- Chequana Boisseau, J. Sargent Reynolds Community College
- Cynthia Boone, Charles City County
- Patra Brodie, City of Richmond Public Utilities
- Shawna Brown, Virginia State University
- Neisha Brown, Virginia State University
- Porlan Cunningham, Petersburg City Public Schools
- Archana Dash, Virginia State University
- Kelly Green-Bloomfield, St. Joseph's Villa
- Ashley Hill, City of Richmond - Department of Utilities
- Brenda Hornsby, Virginia Department of Social Services
- Elizabeth Hunt, VCU
- Alesia Johnson, St. Paul's Baptist Church
- Mette Lauridsen, University Hospital of Southern Denmark
- Makeba Lindsay D'Abreu, MissionSquare Retirement
- Mylam Ly, Virginia IT Agency
- Tameika McCoy, University Counseling Services
- Kimberly McDougle, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
- Jasmine Merricks, VCU Police Department
- Raya Nickerson, Town of Dumfries
- Nichole Palmer, Virginia State University
- Elizabeth Patterson, Virginia Lottery
- Demmie Pennix, VCU School of Nursing
- Danielle Pierce, Virginia Commonwealth University
- Samantha Ray, VCU - School of Education
- La'Shawn Reid, Virginia Lottery
- Ellen Robertson, Richmond City
- Susheela Shanta, New College Institute
- Molly Tiet, Tactiq
- Evan Ward, VCU
- Rochelle Williams, City of Richmond
- Lauren Withrow, Boatwright Memorial Library, University of Richmond
- Abigail Zaremba, Virginia Commonwealth University- Procurement Services

Leadership is not just about holding a position of authority or commanding others, but about inspiring and empowering those around you. When your actions encourage others to dream bigger, expand their knowledge, achieve more, and grow personally and professionally, you demonstrate the qualities of a real leader.

The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute and the VCU Wilder School applaud and express our pride in a Virginia Executive Institute (VEI) group project for impacting the commonwealth!

As part of a culminating activity, four VEI participants' ideas have resulted in Virginia House Bill 342, which now provides guidelines for state agencies, allowing them to possess and administer naloxone or other opioid antagonists.

In the fall of 2023, a group in the VEI class presented a project focused on educating the public about the risks of Fentanyl and the importance of providing Narcan to state agencies. The goal was to allow employees of those agencies to possess and administer Narcan as needed. The presentation by this group, nicknamed The Fighting First, was well-received, and they were invited to present their work at the Attorney General's office in December 2023 and also at the Opioid Abatement Authority.

This group's success can be attributed to the combined knowledge and experience of
- Zacc Allen: Chief Information Officer, Information Technology Unit, Department of Corrections
- Mike Alston: Director, Human Capital & Development Division, Department of Medical Assistance Services
- Allen Blair: Senior Talent Management Consultant, Department of Human Resources Management
- Tiffany Yacomeni: Branch Chief, Court Services & Offender Supervision Agency

Fighting First, we are extremely proud of you and your accomplishment. Thank you for making a direct impact on Virginians!

You can read the full story here in the right “In the News” column: https://pmg.vcu.edu/

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day, and Emancipation Day, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Celebrated on June 19th, it marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced General Order No. 3, proclaiming the freedom of enslaved people in Texas. This event occurred more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation had officially outlawed slavery in the Confederate States.

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It symbolizes freedom and equality. Embracing the past and empowering the future. Happy Juneteenth!

While the journey of inner work is deeply personal and cannot be fully undertaken by anyone else, it doesn't imply that one must go through it in isolation. The presence of supportive relationships and professional guidance can significantly enhance your ability to heal and grow.

The Grace E. Harris Leadership Team and the Class of 2024 are deeply grateful to our June speakers for their invaluable contributions to the HIGHER Ground Leadership Development Program. Cherry Dale enriched our understanding of financial wellbeing, Marcelle Davis inspired us with her session on Leading with G.R.A.C.E. (featuring a creative Lego activity), and Amy Armstrong enlightened us on Appreciative Leadership.

A special thank you to Terry Worrell, our program facilitator, for closing out the classes with impactful activities that brought the class closer together as they concluded their final class days.

The dedication and expertise by all of you has made a lasting impact on the class’s leadership journey.

Congratulations to the Virginia Executive Institute (VEI) graduating class of Spring 2024! Your dedication, hard work, dynamic presentations, and innovative spirit have been influential. Here's to your bright futures, the groundbreaking ventures you'll create, and the inspiring leaders you've become.

Help us in congratulating the Spring 2024 VEI class:
- Alexis Aplasca, Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
- Robert Arons, Department of Social Services - Office of Research and Planning
- Seth Austin, Department of Health
- Jeanine Black, Department of Social Services
- Stacey Brown, Department of Wildlife Resources
- Aubrey Chigwada, Department of Human Resource Management
- Montwrace Cunningham, Department of Veterans Services
- Aubrey Granderson, Department of Criminal Justice Services
- Denise Hayes, Department of Corrections
- Kimberly Jones, Department of Social Services
- Allison Lawrence, Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus
- Amy Martin, Department of Wildlife Resources
- Richard Matthews, Virginia Information Technologies Agency
- Clay Mountcastle, Virginia War Memorial
- Ty Parr, Department of Social Services
- Kathryn Perszyk, Department of Environmental Quality
- Dominique Prophet, Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency
- Sarah Rogers, Department of Health Professions
- Kelli Spriggs, Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency
- Pam Stephenson, Department of General Services
- Albert Stokes, Richmond Police Department
- Zuhairah Tillinghast, State Corporation Commission
- Keith Tisdell, Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
- Michele Watson-Crone, Department of Veterans Services
- Steven Williams, Department of Motor Vehicles
- Nancy Wilson, Department of Taxation

Let’s celebrate together and keep pushing the boundaries of innovation!

See more about this VEI class here: https://wilder.vcu.edu/news-and-events/news-articles/virginias-top-public-service-leadership-program-continues-a-tradition-of-excellence-and-problem-solving.html

We are excited to announce that the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute Professional Development Courses are open for Registration! Develop yourself or your colleague in one of our enriching leadership development courses. Apply and learn more here https://myemail-api.constantcontact.com/Upcoming-Professional-Development-Programs---Join-us-or-send-a-member-of-your-team.html?soid=1101398927357&aid=IpLZXlU5avM

The Fall 2024 Virginia Executive Institute (VEI) is open for registration! Join us or consider sending members of your agency. The Virginia Executive Institute exemplifies the commonwealth’s commitment to the professional development of its executives for more than four decades. Starting in 1981, more than 1,500 leaders in Virginia state government are VEI graduates, forming a vast network of excellence. Only a few spots available; Applications are due June 28th https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=JE3CMWCNWTHHLL9F

Congratulations to all the graduates of the Spring Fundamentals For Supervisors Program! Completing this program is a significant achievement and a testament to your hard work, dedication, and commitment to professional growth. As you step into your roles, may you continue to inspire, lead, and make impactful contributions to your teams and organizations. Best wishes for a successful and fulfilling journey ahead!

Timilehin Adedokun, Department of Health
Justin Anderson, State Corporation Commission
Jonathan D. Banberger, Department of Criminal Justice Services
Donnell Bradley-Oliver, Henrico Department of Health
Jamie Brooks, Department of Labor and Industry
Jillian Bullock, Department of Energy
Dana Byrd, Virginia Commonwealth University
Catrina Case, Department of Accounts
Joshua Davis, Department of Fire Programs
Katlin DeWitt, Department of Forestry
Princy R. Doss, Department of Labor and Industry
Terri Michelle Evers, Department of Criminal Justice Services
Chrissandra Fowlkes, Department of Social Services
Darlene Gibson, Department of Energy
Ruth P. Green, City of Richmond Department of Social Services
Sherry Green, Department of General Services
Shannon Gulasky, Department of Accounts
Diane Haldane, Department of Labor and Industry
Shavon Hinton, Department of Social Services
Kaitlin Hopingardner, Department of Labor and Industry
Kathryne M. Hudson, Department of Forensic Science
Brittney Kanard, Department of Education
Esther Kim, Department of Accounts
Meredith Lee, Department of Assistance Services
Megan Light, Virginia529
Tiffany Loving, Department of General Service
Justin H. Marshall, Department of General Services
Donnitria Mosby, Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Virginia Fair Housing Office
Ellen D. Oakey, Department of Elections
Cameron Parris, Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation
Teresa Reed, Department of Forensic Science
Ilaria Righetto, Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Dominic Scala, Department of Labor and Industry
Robert M. Steele, Department of Fire Programs
Megan C. Sturgill, Department of Energy
Briana R. Thomas, Department of Health
Victoria Thomas, Virginia529
Gloria Warriner, State Corporation Commission, Bureau of Insurance
Erin T. Weaver, Department of Health Profession
Ariel Wood, Virginia Commonwealth University Health

The Grace E. Harris Leadership team is thrilled to share that one of our incredible HIGHER Ground participants, Councilwoman Ellen Robertson, is featured in today's edition of the Virginia Mercury! 🎉

Congratulations, Ellen, on your outstanding work and dedication in commissioning this much-needed report. Your efforts are truly making a difference! 🙌

The article, titled "‘Not a level playing field.’ New report highlights home value disparity for Black Richmonders" by Charlotte Rene Woods, sheds light on the significant disparities in home values within Richmond's neighborhoods. According to the report from Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME), commissioned by Ellen, homes in areas with 30% or more Black residents are valued 17% less on average compared to neighborhoods with fewer Black residents.

As Thomas Okuda Fitzpatrick, HOME's director, aptly states, “This report demonstrates that housing is not a level playing field for Black and white Richmonders.”

This important work is crucial in addressing and understanding the ongoing challenges faced by our communities.

🔗 Read more about the article here https://ow.ly/rgGz50S7pGY