ARLINGTON - On Tuesday, June 20, 2017, The George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management in partnership with the Virginia Leadership Institute (VLI) will hold "Diversity in NOVA: Creating an Inclusive Regional Action Plan for Community Success", a free panel discussion and networking event that will explore African American engagement in the future of Northern Virginia. The forum will specifically focus on the region's economic development, transportation and affordable housing plans, and how all communities play a role in their success.
The event will be held at The George Washington University, 950 N. Glebe Road in Arlington. Online registration is now open. The panel discussion will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by a networking reception.
With a population of 2.7M, Northern Virginia is a changing, affluent region with a diversifying population. With increased growth, its critical that African Americans, who comprise 11% of the region, are engaged in the discussion about the future development of the region. The discussion will be moderated by Krysta Jones, VLI's Founder and CEO, and feature Phyllis Randall, Chair, Loudoun County Board of Supervisors; John Chapman, Member, Alexandria City Council; and Portia Clark, an Arlington community activist.
"As an alumna of the GW Graduate School of Political Management, I understand the value the program brings to understanding the politics of the region, and the nation," said Krysta Jones. "My graduate education at GW was the impetus for me founding VLI in 2006 to increase the number of African-American elected officials. VLI is committed to ensuring that African Americans are not only at the table, but leading the critical discussions and demanding inclusiveness, as we work together to chart the future of Northern Virginia."
About The George Washington School of Political Management: Founded in 1987 and located in the heart of Washington, DC, GW’s Graduate School of Political Management is the first and foremost school of applied politics, communications, and advocacy, offering master’s degrees in the following disciplines: Legislative Affairs, Political Management, Strategic Public Relations, and Comunicación Política y Gobernanza Estratégica. GSPM provide a hands-on education, not a theoretical exploration.
About Virginia Leadership Institute: The Virginia Leadership Institute (VLI) was founded in 2006 to increase the number of Black elected and appointed officials through training, tracking, mentoring and networking. VLI has impacted over 350 leaders; 30 have run for office, 10 have been elected, and many more have received local and state commission appointments.