FAQs
What is Leadership Prince William (LPW)?
As a community leadership program, we are not entirely unique. Many communities have programs like ours. Some are integrated with/run by the local Chamber of Commerce while ours is an independent organization. Each one is designed to meet the perceived needs of the community they serve.
Leadership Prince William is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that inspires and engages adults and youth to enrich the Greater Prince William Region through collaborative leadership. We operate a Signature Program for adults, continuing education and networking for alumni, and an Emerging Leaders Program for young professionals or those new to leadership. LPW is governed by a Board of Regents and has one full-time staff member.
Programs
Signature
The Leadership Prince William Signature Program offers a grounded, relationship-centered path to serve our community. Across Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park, participants share on-site experiences, listen to local voices, and work together on issues that matter—forming genuine bonds that cross sectors and perspectives. Expect honest dialogue, a broadened understanding of regional challenges and assets, and trust built through action. The network you create becomes a circle that answers the call, makes introductions, and shows up for one another and the community. Graduates leave ready to convene, listen, and lead—collaboratively strengthening a more connected, equitable, and resilient place to call home.
Emerging Leaders
Unlock your potential with Leadership Prince William’s Emerging Leaders program. Gain practical leadership skills, sharpen strategic thinking, and build confidence to lead with clarity. Learn directly from accomplished executives through immersive workshops and personalized coaching. Expand your network with driven peers from Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park who challenge and support your growth. Discover your authentic leadership style, strengthen communication and decision-making, and master tools for resilience and influence. Create a tailored development plan that aligns your values, strengths, and ambitions to your next career steps. Set a clear course for your future—and accelerate both personal and professional growth.
Choosing Your Path with Leadership Prince William
Signature Program ($3800; scholarships may be available)
A 10‑month, relationship‑centered journey for established professionals. You’ll learn in the field across Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park—sharing on‑site experiences, listening to local voices, and working on issues that matter. Honest dialogue, broadened regional understanding, and trust built through action create a network that answers the call, makes introductions, and shows up. Graduates leave ready to convene, listen, and lead—collaboratively strengthening a more connected, equitable, and resilient community. Identified as LPW’s flagship, 10‑month course (September through June) with immersive, full‑day sessions and strong alumni bonds.
Emerging Leaders ($600; scholarships may be available)
An eight‑session, evening program (Mondays, 7–9 pm) focusing on creating and committing to your Individual Development Plan. Unlock your potential with practical tools—communication, decision‑making, strategic thinking—through immersive workshops and personalized coaching. Discover your authentic leadership style, build confidence, and create your plan aligned to your specific values, strengths, and your next career steps. Expand your network with driven peers from across the region and apply skills immediately at work and in the community. Includes a one‑year alumni membership upon graduation.
Bottom line: Choose Signature for a system‑level, 10‑month immersion and powerful cross‑sector network. Choose Emerging Leaders for a focused skills accelerator that fits your weekly rhythm and propels near‑term growth.
Leadership Prince William — Signature Program Sessions
Concise overview of each session. No contact info or links included by request.
|
Opening Retreat (TheMountain) Two days of team-building, reflection, and shared learning set the foundation for the year. Participants establish common language and expectations, get to know the cohort, and begin aligning around community priorities. |
|
Communications Encourages leaders to delve into deepening relationships and trust within teams, while exploring practical tools around Active Listening and building safety. These frameworks will help to shift communication from simply conveying information to fostering community relationships, driving meaningful action and representing the voices of all. |
|
Environment & Open Spaces Explores local natural assets and the policies that guide their use and protection. Site visits and discussions highlight how leaders balance conservation, growth, and long-term resilience. |
|
History &Government Provides context for how regional history informs today’s public decisions. Participants engage with local officials, learn how budgets and policies are set, and identify effective ways to participate in civic processes. |
|
EconomicDevelopment &Tourism Examines how Economic Development focuses on growing the local economy by attracting investment, supporting businesses, and creating jobs. Provides first-hand insight into how Tourism promotes the area as a travel destination to boost local spending, cultural exchange, and community prosperity. |
|
Arts & Cultures Highlights the creative sector’s contributions to identity, connection, and economic activity. Participants meet cultural leaders, explore funding and partnerships, and consider how arts and heritage strengthen community life. |
|
Education Surveys the education-to-career pipeline across K–12, higher education, and training programs. Conversations center on student outcomes, equity, mental health, and collaboration between schools, employers, and community partners. |
|
PublicSafety Offers a behind-the-scenes view of emergency response, policing, and preparedness. Participants examine how transparency, data, and community relationships support safety and trust. |
|
Health & Human Services Maps the systems that support health, housing stability, and social services. Sessions connect public health, behavioral health, and nonprofit work, with attention to access, coordination, and measurable outcomes. |
|
ClosingRetreat Brings the year’s learning into focus and clarifies next steps for community involvement. Participants reflect on growth, share project outcomes, and connect with the alumni network for continued engagement. |
Prepared for informational use.
Why was Leadership Prince William established?
Why would I want to become a Leadership Prince William alumnus?
After completing our Signature or Emerging Leaders Programs, you join a network of passionate leaders who contribute considerable time, talent, and energy to the betterment of the Greater Prince William Area. In addition, you will become more aware of issues in Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park; you will meet other community leaders; and you will find your own unique leadership role in our community.
Both programs teach participants more about themselves, empowering them to better collaborate with others in every area of their professional and personal lives. The Signature Program is designed as an applied leadership curriculum with an emphasis on building awareness of the many facets of our unique community.
We encourage you to visit our Testimonials Page to see what past graduates have to say.
Who is qualified to apply for the LPW Signature Program?
Individuals who qualify for our Signature Program will:
- Demonstrate an interest and willingness to lead;
- Be actively engaged and committed to progress in our community;
- Exhibit personal and professional excellence;
- Live or work in Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park for at least one year prior to the start of the program year (September);
- Be willing to commit the required time to the program (one work day per month, September – June);
- Be committed to using your leadership skills and knowledge for the long-term benefit of the community and Leadership Prince William;
- Be 25 years old or older.
What happens after the program year?
Alumni become part of our growing network of leaders and are encouraged to participate in Leadership Prince William through our committees, Board of Regents, events and activities. Past graduates of the Signature Program can also join Leadership Prince William at various levels of membership and enjoy exclusive benefits. Learn more here.
After having newly embraced their responsibility as community leaders, many have gone on to start exciting new initiatives such as Prince William Living magazine, The Northern Virginia Food Rescue program, the Centerfuse co-working space, and Phase II Staffing & Contracting, just to name a few. Still others, like Prince William County Supervisor Victor Angry and Dumfries Town Councilwoman Cydny Neville, have gone on to run for public office.
How do alumni engage in the community?
Our alumni take their experiences back to their own businesses and organizations to increase their effectiveness. They serve on numerous non-profit boards, committees, and commissions in the region. Alumni stay engaged with Leadership Prince William through participation on committees and the Board of Regents. They also assist in planning programs, serving as speakers and presenters, and mentoring our youth participants.
How is Leadership Prince William funded?
Since Signature Program tuition covers only about half of the Leadership Prince William operating budget, individuals, businesses, and organizations that recognize Leadership Prince William’s role in our region provide generous financial and in-kind support. We also offer programs and events throughout the year, with modest participation fees. We receive several small grants each year from corporate and community foundations. These range from $3,000 to $16,500. Leadership Prince William currently receives no government funding.
How can I support Leadership Prince William?
We accept online donations of any amount. Leadership Prince William welcomes youth program and event sponsors, Signature Program day sponsors, donations, and contributions for scholarship funds. We also need volunteers, speakers, caterers, and event venues throughout the year. Please contact us at 571-765-7568 or send a message here if you are interested in learning more about any of these opportunities.
Do other communities have leadership programs?
Leadership Prince William is one of almost 2,000 similar community leadership organizations around the country and internationally that offer current and emerging leaders the opportunity to cultivate their interest in leadership while learning about current issues and networking with others in their community.