Why VLA 2026?

Step Into Leadership with the Virginia Leadership Academy (VLA)

VLA is your gateway to becoming a bold, confident REALTOR® leader—locally, statewide, and nationally. This immersive experience blends high-impact retreats, virtual sessions, and hands-on challenges to help you grow, connect, and stand out.

What to Expect:

  • 7 power-packed sessions (5 in-person, 2 virtual)
  • Top-tier speakers from across the country
  • Team-building adventures that spark collaboration
  • Leadership training that transforms your career
  • Exclusive networking with industry trailblazers
  • Spokesperson coaching, profile analysis, and more

If you’re driven, curious, and ready to rise—VLA is your next big move.

Objectives of the Virginia REALTORS® Leadership Academy:
  • Identify Virginia REALTORS® who have demonstrated leadership potential and have an interest in the REALTOR®
  • Train participants in leadership and volunteer best practices.
  • Motivate participants by increasing their awareness of real estate, association issues, and challenges.
  • Develop a network of leaders across the state that will actively work for the continued growth of the REALTOR® organization at all levels.
Selection Criteria

Members are accepted through a competitive application process that prioritizes commitment to association, industry leadership, and to personal and professional development. Participation in the Virginia Leadership Academy is open to REALTORS® living in the state of Virginia. A maximum of 15 individuals will be selected to participate in the program. As space is limited, applicants who are not selected are encouraged to reapply in subsequent years. Participants will be selected based on their application, geographic location, and other considerations. These potential leaders will have knowledge of or be active in their Local Boards/Associations, and/or be active in real estate specialty areas, affiliated REALTOR® groups, community-based organizations, or other volunteer organizations.

How to Apply 

Current Virginia REALTORS® members are eligible to apply to the Leadership Academy.

Application forms should include as much information as possible; however, answers should be limited to the space available. In addition to a complete application, members are strongly encouraged to provide endorsements from their local association and peers.

If accepted into the Virginia Leadership Academy, members will be required to pay a tuition fee of $2,500. There are scholarship opportunities available for those that seek financial assistance.

Program Policies

Attendance at all Leadership Academy events is mandatory. Those who fail to attend will be asked to withdraw, with no refund of tuition.