In the News

Surratt represents the Town of Hillsville through participation in programs including the Virginia Municipal Leadership Institute in partnership with Virginia Tech, which supports women in government and has brought many changes to the town which have benefited citizens.

Prior to becoming superintendent, he completed the Aspiring Superintendents Program sponsored by the Virginia Association of School Superintendents and other partners.

“I was just looking for leadership training and came upon the Virginia Womens Municipal Leadership Institute (VWMLI),” said Pittman. “I was so excited – a group of women but also in the public sector, which is a unique part of the industry different from the private, it checked all my boxes with leadership on the government side, and hopefully a huge support system.”

“It is critical for communities to have leadership that reflects the demographic of their towns, cities, and counties. Inclusive leadership makes for better decision-making and therefore stronger communities,” Svrcek said.

She said the program involved a select group of women in governmental leadership positions, who aspired to be the best leaders they can for their communities. Jackson said in eight monthly sessions, the program provided developmental skills to join together as executive women in local government and make long lasting connections across the state of Virginia.

Round Hill Town Administrator Melissa Hynes recently completed the Virginia Women’s Municipal Leadership Institute, a partnership between Virginia Women Leading Government and the Virginia Tech Roanoke Center to provide women aspiring to become local government leaders with connections, content, tools, and opportunities to further develop their skills and broaden their network.

“VWMLI has allowed me to learn more about local government leadership and it has developed my confidence as a leader in this industry. Above all, the institute has given me a network of strong women leaders who will be lifelong friends and colleagues,” Wagner said.

Warsaw’s assistant town manager, Missy Coates, completed the Virginia Women’s Municipal Leadership Institute, an achievement that Mayor Randy Phelps described as “a very big deal.”

A team of researchers, led by Theodore Lim, will use a National Science Foundation grant to work with Roanoke communities to combat the impact of rising temperatures and promote healing among those impacted by harmful urban planning practices.

The Virginia Women’s Municipal Leadership Institute recently graduated its second cohort, drawn from women in local government across the state.

1,300 kids in grades K-12 attended Roanoke STEAM day, where they got to explore four free exhibits introducing them to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math.

Students from across the Roanoke Valley participated in the annual science, technology, engineering, arts, and math or “STEAM” day.

"What truly sets this experience apart is the emphasis on building meaningful relationships. Through collaborative projects and shared experiences, I have formed connections that will not only support my future endeavors but also enrich my life with lasting friendships," Spencer said.

Sweet Briar student Bivushi Timilsina shares her perspective on the Women Impact Virginia Summit 2023 recently held in Roanoke.

Speakers from a wide range of industries shared their stories of success and struggle and provided tips for how participants could reach their full potential.

Women Impact Virginia connects professional women across the commonwealth and gives them the resources they need to succeed.