Sustaining Leaders.
Leadership Monongalia is dedicated to identifying, developing and sustaining local leaders who will help shape the future of Monongalia County.
About.
Program Co-Directors:
Michelle Hopkins &
Amy Loomis
Leadership Monongalia is an intensive public affairs/leadership development program designed to expand the community’s civic leadership. In a state where retaining talent is just as critical as developing it, this nine-month program equips participants with the skills, knowledge and connections needed to not only lead but to stay and make an impact in Monongalia County.
Program Objectives:
Knowledge Enrichment
Cultivate Involvement
Develop Community Leaders
Enhance Personal Network
The Sessions.
Over the course of nine months, participants engage in face-to-face discussions with experts and key decision-makers in areas of vital concern to Monongalia County. Leadership sessions are broken into topics: Economic Development, Education, Social Services, Arts and Culture, Health Care, Government, Quality of Life, Community and Leadership.
Each session includes on-site visits to local organizations and businesses, where participants engage with industry experts, educators and policymakers. These experiences provide hands-on learning and real-world insights, allowing participants to observe key issues firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping the region.
The sessions are typically on one Thursday per month and an occasional evening commitment. They will all be conducted locally in Monongalia County, except for the Tri-County session, which rotates between Monongalia, Harrison and Marion counties.
Join Us.
Each year, a class of up to 20 cross-sector leaders is selected to participate in Leadership Monongalia. A selection committee reviews the applications of county-wide nominees from whom the final group of participants is chosen.
Those selected will be active in business, labor, education, the arts, government and community-based organizations and will reflect the diversity of Monongalia County. Additionally, the committee will seek individuals likely to utilize their leadership abilities for the long-term benefit of Monongalia County. Although participants will have varied backgrounds and possess diverse talents, they will share one common characteristic: an abiding interest in the future of Monongalia County and West Virginia.
Candidacy is open to all individuals 18 years of age and older, regardless of race, creed, gender, philosophy, disability or employment status. Applicants must have a stake in Monongalia County, either as a resident or representative of a Monongalia County-based business or organization.
Tuition for the nine-month program is $850. Attendance at all sessions will be required for graduation from Leadership Monongalia, so the commitment required is exceptional. Applications for the Class of 2027 will be accepted through August 1, 2026.
Alumni.
Questions? Message Us.
