We concluded our inaugural Housing Leadership Institute (HLI) cohort this March in Richmond. Over the past 10 months, 15 inspiring leaders from across Virginia—working in affordable housing and community development—have grown together through shared learning, collaboration, and reflection.
On our final morning together, cohort members presented their 3–5 year career development plans—the program’s capstone project—and explored ways to stay connected and continue supporting one another beyond HLI.
That afternoon, we celebrated their accomplishments with the extended HLI community, including career coaches, guest speakers, financial partners, and the friends and families of our cohort members. It was a joyful gathering and a perfect way to say “see you soon” to this remarkable group.
Special thanks to the vendors who made the graduation ceremony and reception such a memorable occasion:
Kent-Valentine House – Venue
Alex Hines Photo & Co – Photography
Soul N Vinegar – Catering
Vyewfinder Films – Video
XLS Entertainment – DJ
As we reflect on our first year, we are deeply grateful to our sponsors—Weissberg Foundation, The Blocker Foundation, and Atlantic Union Bank—for making this program possible. We’re proud of all that this first cohort has accomplished and excited to continue investing in the next generation of housing and development leaders.
