As part of our 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025, Virginia Humanities established an advisory group of young professionals working at the intersections of Virginia’s history and culture. Founding members will bring fresh perspectives and energy to further enrich our mission in all corners of the state.

The Emerging Humanities Leaders Council will play a crucial role by shadowing board committees. This engagement allows members to gain firsthand experience in governance, strategic decision-making, and the inner workings of the organization. We look forward to the unique contributions each member of our Emerging Humanities Leaders Council advisory group will bring, propelling us towards a future of meaningful impact throughout the commonwealth.

Roles & Responsibilities

  • Strategic Planning: Assist the Virginia Humanities Board in understanding the perspectives of a younger audience and provide insights into how the humanities impacts this demographic, ensuring that the organization’s mission will resonate with next generation leaders.
  • Networking and Outreach: Actively engage with diverse stakeholders, fostering connections with young professionals, scholars, and organizations to enhance the visibility and impact of humanities-related projects.
  • Resource Mobilization: Contribute to fundraising efforts by identifying potential donors, sponsors, and grant opportunities to secure financial support for humanities programs and initiatives.
  • Program Development: Provide insights and expertise in shaping relevant and impactful programs, workshops, and events that contribute to the intellectual and cultural enrichment of the community.
  • Advocacy: Advocate for the importance of humanities in various forums, promoting awareness and understanding of the value the humanities bring to society, education, and individual development.

Time Requirement: Two-year term limit. A two-hour meeting each quarter in addition to joining the two-day Virginia Humanities Board meeting each quarter. To be eligible, group members should be between the ages 20-40 years old.

We are still accepting applications for founding members. Please complete the following application to be considered for an Emerging Humanities Leaders Council member position at Virginia Humanities. All information provided will be kept confidential:

Emerging Humanities Leaders

Young woman with long brown hair, wearing a black shirt with white trim, smiling outdoors.

Mallory Bernstein

Fairfax

Dr. Adolph Brown IV

Richmond

Sam Florer

Richmond

Geston Pierre

Newport News

Grace Ann Roberts

Charlottesville
Smiling woman with blonde hair wearing a gray blazer and black shirt

Clarissa Sanders

Spotsylvania

Shane A. Woods

Staunton
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