RICHMOND, Va. - Governor Northam announced the application period for the fourth Virginia Management Fellows (VMF) cohort is now open.
Virginia created the VMF program, which provides salary and full state benefits, in partnership with the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) at Virginia Tech to "meet state government’s needs for future leaders."
The deadline to apply is Wednesday, February 24.
“Through the Virginia Management Fellows program, we are cultivating a new generation of leaders that will continue our legacy of exceptional public service and good governance,” said Governor Northam. “As previous and current Fellows have demonstrated, this fellowship provides the skills, mentorship opportunities, and leadership and management training necessary to enter state government ready to tackle tough challenges and develop innovative solutions that will improve the lives of Virginians across our Commonwealth.”
Officials say the program is designed to create a succession pipeline as state government employees continue to retire in leadership and management positions.
During the two-year fellowship, those accepted will participate in research and study, to understand public administration theories and processes through seminars and lectures designed specifically for the Commonwealth.
Northam announced a new additional program to the fellowship. Fellows will now also take a four-credit graduate level course in public budgeting taught by professors at SPIA in addition to completing a leadership and management development certificate program.
Officials describe the program as a "destination for talent, inclusivity, and excellence that builds on equity and inclusion efforts to address diversity and eliminate disparities in access to state careers."
Applicants must have graduated on or after May 2018 from an accredited institution with a Bachelor’s degree or demonstrate proof of a May 2021 graduation date. Master’s, JD, or PhD degree holders who completed their studies after May 2018 or are currently enrolled as students in degree-seeking graduate-level programs, are eligible.
To learn more about the VMF program, click here.
