LEAD SWVA Announces Second Cohort of Regional Leadership Program

2026 LEAD SWVA Cohort

LEAD SWVA, a regional leadership development program administered by the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise), is proud to announce the selection of its 2026 cohort. Fifteen emerging and established leaders from across Southwest Virginia have been chosen to participate in the seven-month program.

The program’s second cohort launched in May at the Southwest Virginia Economic Forum on the UVA Wise campus, where participants joined regional leaders and community stakeholders for a day of dialogue centered on economic growth and the future of the region. The cohort will continue meeting monthly through November, with sessions taking participants to communities and destinations throughout Southwest Virginia, including Wytheville, the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center and Cultural Center and Marketplace, Russell, Dickenson and Buchanan Counties, St. Paul and Big Stone Gap. The program will conclude with a graduation ceremony in November.

The 2026 LEAD SWVA cohort members are:

  • Miana Abshire
  • Dani Babcock
  • Nicole Boothe
  • Liz Daugherty
  • Ryan Dorland
  • Bonnie Eubanks
  • Adam Harris
  • Dianna James
  • Erik Jones
  • Brandi McCracken
  • Erica Miller
  • Maria Mitchell
  • Valeria Reynolds
  • Sabrina Stanley
  • Michelle Workman

LEAD SWVA—which stands for Learn, Engage, Aspire, Deliver—brings together community-focused professionals committed to growing personally and professionally while strengthening the region they call home. The curriculum is designed to enhance communication, problem-solving and team management skills, while deepening participants’ understanding of the complex challenges and opportunities facing Southwest Virginia. Topics include entrepreneurship, workforce development, downtown revitalization and outdoor recreation and tourism.

Each participant will also complete a capstone project, developing and implementing a community impact initiative that addresses local needs and provides tangible takeaways for both the impacted community and the project lead. Cohort members are encouraged to select projects aligned with their personal development goals and interests.

Building on the success of the inaugural cohort, which graduated in November 2025, the 2026 class reflects the program’s growing momentum as a catalyst for regional leadership and connection.

“Effective leadership is critical to the success of any organization or community, and it is vitally important for the future of our region,” said Randall Rose, associate vice chancellor for community and economic development at UVA Wise. “LEAD SWVA provides an impactful opportunity for existing and emerging leaders to develop their skills, increase self-awareness, and build a comprehensive understanding of the region’s economic, civic and cultural landscape.”

Beyond skill development, LEAD SWVA is built on the belief that a strong network of connected leaders is one of the most powerful assets a region can have. Cohort members leave the program with lasting relationships, awareness of regional issues and the tools needed to take meaningful action in their communities.

The program is made possible by the support of the Anne & Gene Worrell Foundation and the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA), whose funding helps provide scholarships and ensures access for qualified residents throughout the region.

For more information about LEAD SWVA, visit www.leadswva.org.