Leadership in Government Seminar

The University of Richmond School of Professional & Continuing Studies is pleased to offer our Leadership in Government Seminar. Enhance your ability to navigate the complexities of public sector leadership and make a significant impact within your organization and community.

The Leadership in Government Seminar offers a targeted training experience for state and local government employees, focusing on the distinct challenges and opportunities of public sector leadership. This program covers the foundational principles of leadership and strategic planning and the nuances of crisis communication and ethical budgeting.

Designed to foster effective leadership skills, this seminar empowers participants to drive meaningful change, innovate within their roles, and lead with confidence and integrity in a government setting.

The seminar’s structure reflects a commitment to real-world applicability, with each module building upon the last to create a cohesive and powerful learning experience. Participants will gain practical skills and strategies and develop a strong ethical foundation to guide their personal leadership style.

Instructional Team

The Leadership in Government Seminar is lead by a distinguished instructional team of former heads of state executive agencies, individuals who have navigated the complex challenges and opportunities of leadership at the highest level of Virginia government.

These professionals bring a wealth of experience, insights, and practical knowledge to the seminar. Their backgrounds include public administration, finance, legislative management, and strategic planning.

  • Todd Haymore, Former Virginia Secretary of Commerce & Trade
  • Bill Leighty, Former Chief of Staff to Governors Mark Warner and Tim Kaine
  • Bill Mims, Former Justice of the Virginia Supreme Court, and Attorney General of Virginia
  • Chris Piper, Executive Director, Virginia Public Access Project
  • Dena Potter, Director of Communications, Virginia Department of General Services
  • Dr. Tom Shields, Associate Dean, University of Richmond SPCS

Course of Study

Hosted on the University of Richmond campus, the Leadership in Government seminar is structured as a blend of interactive lectures, case studies, group discussions and practical exercises.

This intensive seminar is designed to accommodate the schedules of busy professionals, requiring a 5-day commitment. The Seminar begins at 12 p.m. on Monday and concludes at 12 p.m. Friday.