Our Mission

Recognizing the challenges of 21st century governance, we deliver public impact research and multi-sector leadership development to build the capacity of Virginia's communities, organizations, and institutions to serve the Commonwealth.

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Elizabeth Marshall

Marshall accepted into leadership institute

Elizabeth Marshall was recently accepted into the Virginia Natural Resources Leadership Institute (VNRLI), a professional development program for emerging leaders.

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Sorensen class participants

Leadership Development Gears Up for Full Slate of Programs

The Sorensen Institute, LEAD, SEI and Certification are continuing to offer virtual offerings this fall but in-person programs as well.

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Hands praying

New Report: Religious Diversity in Virginia

Senior Demographer Shonel Sen and PhD intern Rebecca Bultman co-authored a new StatChat report that takes a look at the religious makeup of Virginia and its localities.

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Fireworks

Congratulations to Molly, Beth and Jenn

Molly Harlow is the new Interim Assoc. Director of Leadership Development Programs, Beth Bennett is the new Assoc. Director of Certification Programs and Jennifer Nelson is the Assoc. Director of Membership and Engagement.

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Electric Transmission Lines

Electricity Demand in Virginia

In order to successfully transition to renewable energy sources, Virginia will need to plan to meet the substantial growth in electricity demand expected over the next decade.

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Richmond James River Bridge

Weldon Cooper Center partners with Go Virginia Region 3

GO Virginia Region 3 and the Weldon Cooper Center partner to advance economic development in Southern Virginia by expanding resources and the Commonwealth’s network.

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Solar power on building

Cooper Center Offers SolSmart Program to Local Communities

The Weldon Cooper Center now offers the SolSmart Program which makes going solar cheaper, easier, and faster for communities across the Commonwealth.

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Benjamin Wendorf
We collected over 600 testimonials from people across diverse sectors who are using the racial dot map in a variety of ways, often to promote equity and inclusivity in their communities.
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Electric Car Charging

Decarbonizing Virginia's Economy: Pathways to 2050

How can Virginia reach its clean energy goals by 2050? This report emphasizes the feasibility of carbon neutrality for Virginia and explores four strategies to get us there.