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.
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.