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The Snelling Center for Government invites members of the public, nonprofit and private sectors to apply for admission to the Vermont Leadership Institute.

The application process is highly competitive, with up to twenty-six associates selected on the basis of their professional achievements, demonstrated interest in the community, and potential for leadership.

Desired Applicant Qualities:

  • Committed to Vermont
  • Curious about the issues facing Vermont
  • Committed to learning and growing
  • Values inquiry and dialogue

The Snelling Center is a non-partisan organization. As such, we encourage applicants from a variety of perspectives, and we welcome ideological diversity.

The VLI Class of 2025 will begin its training in September of 2024. Most session days take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with at least one overnight per session. Each session requires some advance preparation and some follow-up. Because of the interactive and interconnected nature of their time together, VLI Associates are expected to make a full-time commitment to the program and to their own learning and development.

Tentative 2024-2025 Session Dates:

  • Thursday and Friday, September 26 & 27, 2024
  • Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday, October 21, 22, & 23, 2024
  • Thursday and Friday, December 5 & 6, 2024
  • Thursday and Friday, January 9 & 10, 2025
  • Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, February 3, 4, & 5, 2025
  • Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, March 19, 20, & 21, 2025
  • Thursday and Friday, April 24 & 25, 2025
  • Friday and Saturday, May 30 & 31, 2025

*Please note this is a tentative schedule. Locations will be updated prior to Session 1 and as the program progresses.

The VLI 2025 Application Process:

    • Submit an application by Sunday, May 12, 2024. (Deadline now extended to June 1, 2024!)
      • Include a nonrefundable $25 application fee.
    • Submit two letters of recommendation (emailed to tasha@snellingcenter.org).
    • Participate in an interview, in-person vs. remote TBD.
    • Confirm your participation in July.

The following interview also provides a more in-depth overview of the program’s history, philosophy, curriculum and more.

Tuition

Tuition for the 2024 – 2025 year is $9,250 for double occupancy, and $10,250 for single occupancy, which includes food and lodging.

Information about Financial Aid: Avenues for tuition assistance

Frequently Asked Questions