VWLG selects next executive director of VWMLI

Virginia Women Leading Government (VWLG) is pleased to announce that Carol Steele of Gloucester, Virginia, has been selected to serve as executive director of Virginia Women's Municipal Leadership Institute (VWMLI). Steele most recently served as county administrator for Gloucester County, a position she held for five years, including her service as acting county administrator.

"With more than 40 years of local government experience, leadership roles in several professional organizations, and experience as an adjunct instructor at Old Dominion University, Carol is an excellent choice to lead and manage the institute," said Bonnie Svrcek, current executive director. "Her passion for leadership development and commitment to mentoring future local government leaders make her exceptionally well suited for this role."

The Virginia Women's Municipal Leadership Institute provides connections, education, practical tools, and networking opportunities for women aspiring to become executive leaders in local government. The percentage of female town, city and county managers in Virginia is less than 20%.

Local government practitioners present workshops covering both technical competencies—such as budgeting, strategic planning, and organizational leadership—and essential leadership skills, including public speaking, communication, and navigating the unique opportunities and challenges of executive leadership. There is balance between learning quantitative and qualitative skills.

Steele will work alongside Svrcek during the remainder of the 2026 program before assuming responsibility of leading the institute in January 2027. Each year, the institute selects approximately 25 participants from communities across Virginia, representing both rural and urban localities.

"I am delighted and honored to serve this highly regarded institute and to work with the talented, enthusiastic women who aspire to advance into executive leadership positions in local government," Steele said. "Helping participants develop their leadership skills while building lasting professional relationships across Virginia is an opportunity I greatly value."

The Virginia Women's Municipal Leadership Institute is a collaborative project of Virginia Women Leading Government, a nonprofit professional organization, and the Virginia Tech Roanoke Center. Corporate sponsors also provide valuable support that helps make participation more affordable for each participant and their locality.

Applications for the 2027 program can be submitted online at vwlg.org/apply.

For additional information, please contact Bonnie Svrcek at bsvrcek@gmail.com.