The Virginia Executive Institute (VEI) exemplifies the commonwealth’s commitment to the professional development of its executives for more than four decades. Starting in 1981, more than 1,500 leaders in Virginia state government are VEI graduates, forming a vast network of excellence.

Institute Objectives

VEI provides a dynamic forum for leaders of today and tomorrow to be part of an impressive network of state executives who have committed to developing their leadership strengths and becoming change agents for Virginia's future.

The VEI gives participants opportunities to:

• Re-examine and develop their leadership vision.
• Advance their skills in inspiring others around core mission and goals.
• Dialogue about current issues facing state government.
• Challenge themselves to achieve new levels of excellence in public service.
• Interact with leaders who are fostering change within the commonwealth.
• Build a lasting network of colleagues for cooperation and collaboration.

This program provides an excellent opportunity for professional development and networking while providing CEU's and SHRM PDC's.

Who Should Participate?

VEI is for executives and leaders in state, federal, and local government who are committed to developing their leadership strengths and becoming change agents for Virginia's future.

Each VEI class is limited to 32 maximum participants. In order to meet one of the goals of the program (increasing networking opportunities), we accept no more than two participants from any one agency per session.

All applications require the following documents:

• Current resume
• Nomination letter or nomination form signed by an agency head, director, cabinet secretary, or other designee addressed to Robyn McDougle, Associate Dean of Research and Outreach, VCU Wilder School 
• Completed online application

Apply now

VEI Leadership Challenge Presentations

A key feature of the VEI is the opportunity to discuss and address real issues being encountered by state government. As part of the VEI experience, each participant works in a small group on a critical problem facing the commonwealth. This project provides an opportunity to practice using tools and techniques featured at VEI while proposing a solution to a critical leadership challenge.

Graduation presentations are held at the Virginia State Capitol, where VEI participants present on key issues facing Virginia State government to representatives from the Governor’s cabinet, agency heads, deputies, and invited colleagues.