A Division of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public AffairsThe Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute

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20th Annual HIGHER Ground Leadership Conference - Friday, November 6th, 2026

Join us for the 20th Annual HIGHER Ground Leadership Conference on Friday, November 6th, 2026 at the Richmond Marriott. Celebrate this historic year with our nation’s 250th birthday and Virginia’s first female Governor engaging in and gathering around the idea of making history through our theme “With Grace, We Rise:  Breaking Through to HIGHER Ground.”  We hope you will join us for this meaningful and memorable celebration of making history through leadership, progress, and possibility. 

Registration

  • Early-Bird Rate through September 1st: $275
  • Regular Rate from September 2nd - October 28th: $325
    • The registration fee includes a continental breakfast, lunch, program materials, and conference swag.
Register By: October 28th, 2026

Register Now!

 

With Grace, We Rise: Breaking Through to HIGHER Ground 

“With Grace, We Rise:  Breaking Through to HIGHER Ground” honors both the enduring power of grace and the remarkable legacy of Dr. Grace E. Harris, a visionary leader who made history not only through achievement, but through character, resilience, dignity, and the commitment to lift others on the journey to HIGHER Ground.  

As we celebrate historic moments in our nation and Commonwealth, this theme calls us to lead with purpose, rise above division and limitation, and create pathways and possibilities for future generations. Together, we gather to explore how grace-centered leadership can inspire progress, transform communities, and move all of us toward HIGHER Ground.

Whether you are a seasoned executive, an emerging leader, or someone simply curious about cultivating leadership in yourself and others, the HIGHER Ground Leadership Development Conference provides:

  • Interactive workshops that provide practical strategies for leading with confidence, resilience, and grace;
  • Opportunities to strengthen relationships within the HIGHER Ground community and expand your network of champions and support;
  • Encouraging environment designed to renew your perspective, restore your energy, and strengthen your leadership venture; and
  • Powerful conversations inspired by the theme, “With Grace, We Rise: Breaking Through to HIGHER Ground,” and the enduring legacy of courageous leadership.

Together at this auspicious conference and through the spirit of grace, resilience, and community, we will break through to HIGHER Ground. 

Engage with leaders, tap into your potential, make new connections, and build leadership skills that last!

Guided by the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute, participants will explore the latest and innovative practices in leadership excellence.

  • Narrative-driven discussions
  •  Interactive panels with industry leaders
  •  Workshops
  •  Regional and national speakers highlighting timely issues
  •  Individualized strategic reflection activities
  •  Action planning for practical takeaways
HG Staff and Planning Committee - Fall 2025

When and Where

  • November 6, 2026
  • 8:00 AM-1:00 PM
  • Richmond Marriott Downtown, 500 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219

 

Register Now!