Helping women succeed in public service by enhancing career-building models that develop leadership skills and by networking professional women in government.
Announcing the 2026 VA Women's Municipal Leadership Institute
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 VA Women’s Municipal Leadership Institute!
The Virginia Women’s Municipal Leadership Institute (VWMLI) provides women in local government with the connections and tools to further develop their skills, strengthening the pipeline of women ready to lead communities across Virginia and beyond. The Institute is designed to:
Teach tangible and transformational leadership skills to increase self-confidence, knowledge, and ability.
Provide connection and content to strengthen leadership skills.
Create an everlasting support network among participants, past and present.
Build the pipeline of women leading government in Virginia.
Apply Today! Applications are due January 9, 2026. For more information, view the application details and current program. For any questions, please email VirginiaWomenLeadingGov@gmail.com.
Virginia WLG Officers and Board Members
Officers:
Jerri Wilson, President, Government Affairs Manager, City of Newport News
Olivia Hilton, Vice President, Town Manager, Town of Mt. Jackson
LeAnna Surratt, Treasurer, Town Manager, Town of Hillsville
Amy Southall, Secretary, Community Engagement Director, King George County
Sara McGuffin, Immediate Past President, Town Manager, Town of Amherst
Board Members:
Maddy Adkins, Director of Cultural Placemaking and Events, Town of Vinton
Maggie Mace, Assistant Director of Recreation, Roanoke County
Kirsti Shifflett, Chief Operating Officer, Albemarle County
Bonnie Svrcek, Executive Director, Virginia Women’s Municipal Leadership Institute