Leadership Fairfax is still accepting applications for the 2025–2026 class year!
Our programs are designed to inspire, empower, and equip leaders at every stage of their journey. Whether you're a seasoned executive, a rising professional, or an experienced changemaker, there's a place for you in our leadership community. At Leadership Fairfax, we believe in fostering diverse leaders who inspire, develop, engage, and connect across various sectors. Through our nonprofit programs—Leadership Fairfax Institute (LFI), Empowering Leaders Institute (ELI), Inclusive Leadership Institute (ILI), and Youth Leadership Network (YLN)—we empower individuals to address the most pressing local and regional issues. With over 2,500 alumni from Fortune 500 companies, social service organizations, and everything in between, our network actively contributes to Northern Virginia through volunteerism, leadership, and community engagement. |
The Leadership Fairfax Institute (LFI) is a program designed for the most promising established leaders and professionals from the business, nonprofit, and government sectors throughout the Greater Northern Virginia Region. LFI participants will enhance their leadership capacity, build a robust network, and deepen their understanding of the complex issues facing our communities. Throughout this nine-month program, participants will engage in experiential learning, discussion groups, and site visits. They will engage in conversations with leaders and experts, interact with community decision-makers, and gain the insights and tools necessary to address complex regional challenges. The program aims to develop, connect, and inspire leaders to build a thriving and more inclusive community. Leadership Fairfax is the area’s premier civic leadership program, developing visionary leaders and preparing them to make a meaningful impact throughout Fairfax County and the Greater Northern Virginia Region. |
The Empowering Leaders Institute (ELI) is a skill-based program designed to strengthen participants competencies in project management, conflict resolution, negotiation, communication, public speaking, and more. Throughout this 10-month program, participants will receive six individual hours of professional coaching or mentoring in addition to their regular program days. They will connect with professionals from business, nonprofit and government sectors, as well as participate in a community service project. ELI develops engaged leaders at work and in the community, turning potential into powerful performance. |
The Inclusive Leadership Institute (ILI) is a program for leaders living or working in Fairfax County that seek to deepen their understanding of the historical foundations and the consequences of racism in systems and in the Fairfax County community. ILI adopts a unique and structured dialogue approach, guiding participants through a comprehensive exploration starting from understanding the historical foundations, to current systems. Over the 8-month program, participants will delve into the entrenched beliefs, practices, and policies that contribute to racial inequities within systems and identify ways to operationalize equity within their respective organizations and the community. |
Classes begin in Fall 2025!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of a dynamic, mission-driven network shaping the future of Northern Virginia. Learn more about how you can get involved with Leadership Fairfax today and create lasting change in our community. |
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Apply today at www.leadershipfairfax.org
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Date and Time
Thursday Aug 14, 2025 Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
Location
LFI and ELI Application Form
2026 LFI/ELI Application
ILI Application Form
2026 Inclusive Leadership Institute Application