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.
Save The Date for our 18th Annual Spring Gala on April 10! Tickets will be available soon for this special event at the historic Altria Theater. Sponsorship opportunities are available—contact Colleen Smith at 434‑982‑4910 to start the conversation.
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.
Shannon Valentine Named Secretary of Transportation
Congratulations to Shannon Valentine - a graduate of the Sorensen Institute Political Leaders Program in the Class 2005 - on being named to serve as Virginia's Secretary of Transportation by Governor-elect Ralph Northam (Sorensen Candidate Training Program, Class of 2007) Shannon also is a highly valued member Sorensen's Statewide Advisory Board. We're proud of you, Shannon!
Now seeking applicants for 2018 PLP
The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership at the University of Virginia is now seeking applications for our 2018 Political Leaders Program!
Sorensen Event at Norfolk's Chrysler Museum
In today's bitter partisan environment, the Sorensen Institute's vision is more important than ever: trust, civility and respect in politics. Join us on Oct. 12 for an evening of drinks, discussion and networking with area political junkies to support the Sorensen Institute.
Sorensen Political Leaders Program seeks applicants from across Virginia
The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership at the University of Virginia is now seeking applications for our 2018 Political Leaders Program!
HSLP 2017, Session B: Day 15
Reported by Chip Maurer (James Monroe High School)
Congratulations High School Leaders Program Class of 2017! We did it!
Today we heard two weeks of hard work recapped in incredible speeches from Lauren Gilbert, Alex White, and Bob Gibson. The Spirit of Citizenship Award went to two deserving members of our class, Choetsow Tenzin and Ted McPhillips. After enjoying two weeks with them I can't think of anyone better to receive these awards.
HSLP 2017, Session B: Day 14
Reported by Andrew Kendall (Craig County High School)
Today started with all of the students meeting in the Dome Room of the Rotunda. We all presented our final policy projects to the class as well as a panel consisting of Lauren Gilbert, Tom Walls, Chris West, and Jacqueline Hixson. Every presentation was well put together and very interesting. The projects presented had to do with criminal justice, education, environment, and public health. Each presentation raised some great points and everyone learned from them as well.
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).