Leader-in-Residence Program

Since its founding, the University of Richmond's Jepson School of Leadership Studies 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.

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 backstage view of the performing life. The leader-in-residence may also participate in classroom settings, lead discussions, give lectures, or host presentations.

Recent Leaders-in-Residence

  • Philip S. “Sam” Deloria, a Yankton Dakota descendant, a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe of Fort Yates, North Dakota, and a lifetime advocate for Native American peoples and politics 
  • Dr. Tracy Fitzsimmons, Shenandoah University’s 16th president and the institution’s first female president since its founding in 1875
  • Rodney Robinson, 2019 National Teacher of the Year and Senior Policy Advisor for Richmond Public Schools
  • Ayesha Rascoe, White House reporter for National Public Radio, and Michael Paul Williams, columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch
  • Jennifer McClellan, Virginia state senator and former member of the Virginia House of Delegates, 2018-19