Through a variety of programs - for high school and college leaders to first-time political candidates and influential business and community leaders - the Sorensen Institute has established itself as a powerful and effective force for restoring public confidence in our political system. At the heart of every Sorensen program are three central themes: ethics in public service, the power of bipartisanship, and a concentrated study of public policy issues.
Meet the esteemed alumni who completed our program and continued on to improve their communities.

Our leadership development programs focus on Virginia residents interested in becoming active in public service.

Know someone who would be a good candidate for a Sorensen program? Tell us about them!

This award will be presented annually to the individuals who model the spirit and mission of Sorensen through the trust, civility and respect they have consistently shown toward others. They create sustainable efforts toward the betterment of a more decent and tolerant civic life and culture for the people of the Commonwealth.
PLP 2018 Profile: Aaron Edmond
Name: Aaron C. Edmond
Birthplace and/or where you grew up: Birthplace: New Brunswick, New Jersey
Grew Up: Somerset (Franklin Township), New Jersey
Sorensen Institute Leadership Luncheon: A Forum for Decision Makers
PLP 2018 Profile: Cathy Copeland
Name: Cathy Copeland
Birthplace and/or where you grew up: Fort Wayne, Indiana
Where do you currently call home? Harrisonburg, Virginia
Now Accepting Applications for 2019 Political Leaders and High School Leaders Programs
The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership at the University of Virginia is now seeking applications for our 2019 Political Leaders and High School Leaders Programs!
PLP 2018 Profile: Ken Heath
Name: Ken Heath
Birthplace and/or where you grew up: Marion, Virginia
Where do you currently call home? Marion, Virginia
Four New Sorensen Events This Fall
Check out the Sorensen political links page to discover new insights into politics in Virginia. We seek out new informational resources and frequently update the page with new links so bookmark it for later (or set it as your homepage if you like).