The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU welcomes 27 enrollees for the 2022 class of the Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI). MPLI, a collaborative initiative of the Research Institute for Social Equity and the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, is an eight-month experience 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 into leadership legacy and culture, personal leadership, policy and legislative processes, responsible stewardship, public service, and integrity for future leaders. Participants expand their understanding of community change and gain inspiration and practical guidance from seasoned leaders and professionals through a series of intensive sessions.
Nakeina E. Douglas-Glenn, Ph.D., director of the the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute and interim director of the Research Institute for Social Equity, welcomed the class of 2022 and expressed her eagerness to work with the cohort, and applauded their dedication to increasing their leadership and professional skills. The MPLI 2022 class will join an accomplished group of alumni who continue to make significant contributions throughout VCU, the Commonwealth, and beyond.
The 2022 program launched during a two-day session on April 14 and 15 engaging members of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, county administrators, faculty from participating universities and noted leaders and experts from the community for an introduction to pressing equity issues in Virginia and proposed solutions. Participants will continue with a monthly programming schedule through November, engaging and interacting with communities across Virginia and learning about unique strengths and issues facing different regions of the Commonwealth. 2022 program locations include Richmond, Farmville, Lynchburg, Norfolk and Washington, D.C.
Members of the MPLI Class of 2022
For more information contact Nakeina E. Douglas-Glenn, director, The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute at nedouglas@vcu.edu or 804-827-1169.
The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute of The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs was established in May 1999 by the Board of Visitors at Virginia Commonwealth University in honor of Grace E. Harris, Ph.D., upon her retirement from the position of provost and vice president for academic affairs. Harris served the university for more than 40 years in the roles of faculty member, dean, vice provost, provost and vice president for academic affairs, and acting president, becoming the highest-ranking woman and highest-ranking African American in VCU’s history. Following her retirement as provost, Harris served as a distinguished professor in the Center for Public Policy and led The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute.