Community Health Center University Leadership Program

VCHA logo

The Community Health Center University (CHCU) Leadership Program is leadership program offered in partnership with Virginia Community Healthcare Association (VCHA) and the Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (VAFCC). Registration for the program is managed through VCHA.

This one-year program targets emerging leaders from community health centers, free health clinics and other safety-net providers across Virginia. Participants study a curriculum that includes both in-person and remote seminars and practical activities. The program offers learning experiences, resources, and support to develop and strengthen leadership skills for emerging leaders.

The CHCU Leadership Program consists of learning sessions (virtual and face-to-face meetings) and one-to-one leadership coaching throughout the year. Face-to-face sessions are held on the University of Richmond campus. The program addresses the demands for developing leaders in healthcare organizations to help support the growth of their organization’s operations, succession planning, and leadership development in participants.

Program Sessions

The CHCU Leadership Program comprises the following course sessions:

  • Leading Change/Case Studies
  • Trauma Informed Care
  • Resilience
  • Communication Skills
    • Difficult Conversations
    • Talking to the Press
  • An Overview of Data and Analytics
  • Strategic Thinking and Planning
  • Budgets and Planning
  • Financial Modelling for Healthcare
  • HR and Legal Perspectives
  • Ethics, Quality and Compliance
  • Future of Healthcare in the US
  • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB)
  • Dealing with Disruption

Instructional Team

Earn the CHCU Leadership Program Badge

CHCU Leadership Program badge

In addition to earning a Professional Certificate from the University of Richmond, students who complete this program successfully will earn the CHCU Leadership Program badge. Once earned, you can share this badge on your website, digital resume and social media profiles to demonstrate to employers and colleagues that you’ve completed the program’s outcomes.