The inaugural class of the Neighborhood Leadership Institute graduated on February 28, 2008 at the Stratford Courtyard Conference Center. The 18 neighborhood leaders took center stage before city and county officials, non-profit organizations, higher education professionals, business leaders, and concerned citizens, and laid out their plans for progressive projects that will lead to stronger neighborhoods.

Dr. Barbara Board, Virginia Cooperative Extension District Director gave an inspiring keynote address on the traits of a great leader.

The class, organized into 4 project teams, presented summaries of the project work they have done while in the program.  Many of the projects focus on increasing the organization of neighborhood association, watch programs, etc.  Dr. Martha Walker, Community Viability Specialist for Virginia Cooperative Extension and class instructor, presented the graduates with their plaques, and a John C. Maxwell book on leadership.

Congratulations to our inaugural class:

Michael Amick Matthew Bowles Clarice Coleman Nancy Combs Susan Dalton Debbie Flinn Shannon Hair Jo Ann Hickson Maxine Jackson Afiya Jones Phyllis Jones Jacqueline Menefee Dexter Miller William Pavord John Roberts Hester Toomer Robin Williams Sandy Williams