Richmond is dedicated to the nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Examples of leadership initiatives include:

Leadership Metro Richmond (LMR)
LMR is a distinguished community leadership development program with over 1,000 graduates throughout the Greater Richmond Area. LMR was founded in 1980 to bring together a diverse group of emerging and established leaders to talk about the issues important to the growth and development of the Richmond area. LMR’s mission is to advance the region by educating, energizing, and connecting a diverse group of leaders to serve the community.   

The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute
This Institute sponsors a leadership development program for 25 to 30 Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) faculty members each year. The program is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills, and experience of those in key leadership roles at VCU. During the program, participants examine their own leadership strengths and challenges, meet regularly with a mentor from senior administration, and immerse themselves in real-world team projects.  Recently the institute expanded to include a Minority Political Leadership Institute that provides direction to those seeking to be politically active.   

City of Richmond Citizen Police Academy
Citizens are trained through a series of sessions to understand police work and the challenges of reducing and eliminating crime in neighborhoods.  Specialized academies are held for the Hispanic community and senior citizens.  

Customer Fire Training Academy
The academy helps citizens increase their awareness of fire fighting and acquire a working knowledge of safety procedures related to fire prevention. In 2003, the academy produced a total of 300 graduates.  

City of Richmond’s Citizen Local Government Academy
The academy provides a host of course offerings to empower citizens and to expand their awareness of all aspects of government operations.  Courses include Richmond history and government, budgeting, parks and recreation, economic and community development, utility works, and health and social well-being.