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University of Richmond

Leader-in-Residence Program

Since its founding, the Jepson School has invited local, state and national leaders to play an active role in the Jepson community as leaders-in-residence. This program allows students to interact with leaders in formal and informal settings. Each year's program is tailored to the individual's priorities and interests.

Usually, the honoree offers students multiple opportunities for learning and networking. Students have observed courtroom proceedings, shadowed a mayor through a day's activities and enjoyed a back-stage view of the performing life. The leader-in-residence may also participate in classroom settings, lead discussions, give lectures or host presentations. After a civic leader or scholar spends time interacting with Jepson faculty and students over a semester or year-long partnership, the relationship continues on an informal basis.

  • Leland Melvin, astronaut and University alumnus, is the 2008-09 leader-in-residence. 
  • Leo K. Thorsness, retired Air Force Colonel and Medal of Honor recipient, served in 2007-08. 
  • Walter Witschey, Ph.D., longtime director of The Science Museum of Virginia, served in 2006-07. 
  • Billy Cannaday, Ed.D, superintendent of Chesterfield County Schools, and, later, State Superintendent of Schools for the Commonwealth, served in 2004-05.
  • Eugene Hickok, Ph.D., former United States Undersecretary of Education and Acting Deputy Secretary, served in 2003-04. 
  • Eva Hardy, an executive at Dominion Resources and former high-level state government appointee, served in 2002-03.
  • Gregory Wingfield, CEO of the economic development organization Greater Richmond Partnership, served in 2001-02.
  • The Rev. Dr. John Kinney, dean of the Samuel Dewitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University, served in 1999-00. 
  • Tim Kaine, former mayor of Richmond, now governor of Virginia, served in 1998-99. 
  • Stoner Winslett, artistic director of the Richmond Ballet, served in 1996-97. 
  • Kimberly O’Donnell, Judge, the Richmond Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court, City of Richmond, served in 1995-96Dr. Calvin D. Jamison, currently senior vice president and chief administrative officer of Hampton University, formerly Richmond City Manager and an executive with Ethyl Corp., served from 1994-95. 
  • Wallace Stettinius, business executive; Mary Tyler Cheek, civic leader; Mary Sue Terry and Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf served in 1993-94. 
  • Mary Sue Terry, former Attorney General and Virginia gubernatorial candidate, served in 1992.