The objective of Leadership New River Valley is to assist in the development of community leaders by providing participants from diverse backgrounds with an understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and issues facing the community. The program will also foster the development of leadership skills and techniques in an environment that encourages the establishment of new relationships and communication networks between the participants.
LNRV is an 11 month program. One day each month beginning in February, the class will meet to explore, in depth, an aspect of our community. Topics range from history and culture to public safety and everything in between. There is not a single aspect of life in Montgomery County that is not covered in this course. Participants will apply class learning to a project directed toward community building. Participation is mandatory with no more than two absences permitted. Attendance is strictly enforced. Participants who do not meet the attendance requirements will be automatically dropped from the program with no portion of the tuition refunded.
- Enhance your leadership skills
- Increase your value to your organization and community
- LNRV informs members and citizens about community issues that affect Blacksburg, Christiansburg and Montgomery County
- LNRV provides forums for dialogue between participants and community leaders
- LNRV establishes a networking system among emerging community leaders
- LNRV enhances your opportunities to participate and engage in various leadership roles in the community
We do have sponsorship opportunities for Leadership NRV, a nationally recognized model. Businesses and organizations that sponsor a day have the opportunity to speak to a wide range of participants. Businesses and organizations that send an employee through have the benefit of providing professional development for their employee, connecting with the community and giving back.
Leadership New River Valley is proud to have accepted 30 applicants for the 2026 cohort.
This program will assist in the development of community leaders by providing participants with an understanding of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and issues facing our community. LNRV will also foster the development of leadership skills and techniques in an environment that encourages the building of new relationships among class members, Chamber Members, community leaders, and program speakers.
For any questions about applying for future cohorts, please email lnrv@montgomerycc.org.
Leadership Team
Board Liaisons
Whitney Stokes
Terri Welch
Paige Guynn
Deans
Angie Marcolini
Stephanie Byers
Marissa Bowman Smith
Carie Kingery
Class of 2026
Alan Waters
Antonio Bolden
Brandon Howery
Brandi Womack
Bryce Darkis
Carrie Williams
Chris Womble
Christina Galardi
Eden Harrison
Emily Kamienski
Emma Baker
Frances Coberly
Hunter Howery
James Nolen
Jami McQuain
January Gerow
Jennifer Cankosyan
Jillian Waller
Josh Rosenfeld
Kaleigh Butler
Keith Canales
Marilyn Ortega
Morgan Phillips
Rachel Novick
Richard Stokes
Samantha Marcum
Shawn Weems
Shayna Lyle
Thomas Sproul
Will Hobbs
