Everyone’s a leader somewhere. Maybe it’s at home, coaching a youth sports team, or volunteering in the community. That’s the belief behind Leadership Mon, a nine-month program designed to help Monongalia County residents discover their leadership potential—and use it to better the place they call home.
Running from September through May, Leadership Mon connects participants with local leaders, institutions, and issues through a full day of immersive programming each month. But this isn’t your typical sit-and-listen seminar.
“You actually experience it every single month,” said Michelle Hopkins, Former Leadership Mon Co-Director. “From higher education to healthcare to economic development—we step outside our silos to learn more about what makes this community tick.”
A new chapter, same powerful mission
This year marks a transition in leadership. After several years of passionate guidance from Michelle Hopkins, the program now welcomes Rachelle Beatty as co-director.
“Michelle’s commitment was unmatched,” Beatty said. “Those are very hard shoes to fill, but I’m going to do my best.”
That spirit of personal growth and community connection is a hallmark of the program. Many graduates speak to how the experience deepened their understanding of the region—and themselves.
Shayla Klein, a former journalist turned advertiser, described how Leadership Mon helped reconnect her to her roots in public service. “I missed that part of myself. This was the opportunity to figure out how I could put my skill set to good use here in Morgantown.”
More than a leadership program—it’s a community
The program fosters deep connections across professional and personal backgrounds. Alongside meaningful conversations and site visits, participants build lasting friendships.
“You’ll learn about the good and the bad in our community,” said Beatty. “But most of all, you’ll leave with lifelong friends, new perspectives, and a deeper self-awareness of what you have to offer.”
How to apply
Applications for the next Leadership Mon cohort are open January 1 through August 1 each year. To apply, visit leadershipmon.org, click the “Applications” tab, and complete the online form.
Whether you’re new to the area or looking to make a bigger impact where you already live, Leadership Mon offers a place to grow—and give back.
