Leadership Patrick County
Applications are open for the 2026 Leadership Patrick County class.
Apply now: https://forms.office.com/r/kHaakdd50Z
Leadership Patrick County is a nine month professional development program during which participants learn about assets of community, identify needs, and experience personal and professional growth to enhance leadership capacity and civic engagement.
Enroll in Leadership Patrick County to grow professionally, to learn more about Patrick County and become civically engaged. Cohorts will meet one full day each month, traveling to different communities in the county where you will visit businesses, historical sites, nonprofit organizations and schools. Participants will be expected to attend a sampling of community meetings to gain a greater understanding of committees and initiatives working for the betterment of Patrick County broadly.
Gain skills in team building, collaboration, consensus building, design thinking, and project management as you learn about community needs and devise strategies to address them.
Participants will meet monthly on the third Tuesday of each month (beginning October 2025), during business hours to tour a different locality across the county. An overnight trip to Richmond provides you an opportunity to tour the Capitol, sit in on sessions, meet your senator and delegate, and enjoy a meal with Reynolds family members.
2025 participant testimonials
“Leadership Patrick County was a turning point for me— it deepened my understanding of the county’s assets, challenges, and the incredible people working behind the scenes to make it thrive. The program doesn’t just teach leadership— it cultivates connection, collaboration, and a sense of responsibility to serve. LPC gave me a deeper appreciation for the visionaries who shape our region and the legacy they leave behind. One of the most impactful visits was to Primland, where I saw firsthand how one family transformed a breathtaking view into a world-renowned destination. Their commitment to beauty, sustainability, and hospitality was a powerful reminder that bold ideas, rooted in love for the land, can elevate an entire community. I gained a network of passionate changemakers, a clearer vision for my projects, and the confidence to lead boldly—whether through Rotary or personal ventures in my future. If you care about Patrick County and want to be part of shaping its future, this program is the place to start."
Liz Pierce
"Leadership Patrick County was an amazing networking opportunity. I really enjoyed traveling to different communities and meeting business owners all over the county. I learned a ton about Patrick County and visited businesses I didn't even know existed. I also had a great time being the un-official tour guide for Ararat. This program is perfect for anyone interested in community development, tourism, or civil engagement."
Grace Cooper
I enjoyed my time with LPC. I had the chance to see a lot of the different businesses that we have in our county, and how far they reach out as well. Others should participate because it gives them the opportunity to see more of our beautiful county. My favorite visit was with the coffee shop in Woolwine -- that was my first time there and I really enjoyed it! I gained a more insightful view about where I'm from."
Will Hylton
Prior participant testimonials
“Participating in Leadership Patrick County has been a transformative experience for me as a developing hospitality leader. The connections I made and the insights I gained from my peers have been incredible.”
Santana Lawson, LPC class of 2020
“I truly enjoyed my Leadership Patrick County experience! This program helped me forge new connections, provided me with a greater understanding of my community, and equipped me with fresh skills and ideas to apply in both my workplace and personal life!”
Anna Clark Lester, LPC class of 2014