Annual Report
July 1, 2021 - December 31, 2022
The Weldon Cooper Center is pleased to share this annual report highlighting just a few of our successes. We, like so many, weathered the second half of the global pandemic, emerging leaner and with lessons learned. Throughout 2021 and 2022, we kept our focus on our mission and vision, as described in our first strategic plan, Reimagining Public Service. Guided by the values of access, collaboration, and impact, we have made significant strides in providing services designed to build strong communities across Virginia.
“The Weldon Cooper Center makes real the promise that democracy is delivered through everyday actions and decisions by public servants and policy makers across the commonwealth. This is a tangible expression of the center’s role as an experiential, practical arm of the Karsh Institute of Democracy.”
Ian Baucom, UVA Executive Vice President and Provost
Cooper Center Strategic Plan
Through this plan, the Center aims to build on historical strengths, while joining forces with diverse stakeholders and leaders working to improve public life in Virginia and beyond.
The Energy Transition Initiative (ETI)
ETI conducts high quality research to inform policymakers and provides research-based resources, tools, and guidance to help Virginia localities navigate solar development.
SEI/LEAD Program Redesign
Based on conversations with local government leaders, VIG retooled SEI and LEAD programs to create a highly interactive experience, focused on the skills today’s leaders need.
Student Internships
The Cooper Center offers students hands-on, policy-relevant internships in public service, both within the Center and in organizations throughout the Commonwealth.