L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs

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Many of us who knew and loved her weren’t able to gather and celebrate her life and legacy. As we approach the third anniversary of her passing, HOME will host a celebration of life to remember Dr. Velma J. Ballard.
News / September 13, 2023

HOME of VA celebrates the life of Wilder School alumna Dr. Velma J. Ballard

Dr. Velma J. Ballard (’15) was a lifelong learner, resilient student, and empathetic, compassionate human being who, like many Wilder students, cared deeply about improving the world around us.  She sought to increase equality and equity in myriad spaces, particularly education, the workplace, and housing.

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These talented graduate students are gaining career experiences with our partners: Capital Region Airport Commission, Dinwiddie County, HOME of VA, Virginia Dept. of Corrections, VCU Center for Public Policy, VCU RVA Eviction Lab, and the Greater Richmond Transit Company. Here's to a great year of research and public service.
News / September 8, 2023

Empowering tomorrow's leaders: The 2023-24 Wilder Graduate Scholars’ Fellowship Cohort at the Forefront of Public Affairs

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is proud to introduce the accomplished members of the 2023-24 Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship Program. This year's cohort brings together 14 inquisitive minds from multifaceted backgrounds and academic programs. Established in 2006, the Wilder Fellowship remains a pivotal bridge in connecting our exceptional master's students with state agencies and nonprofit organizations.

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Eric Campbell leading students in the Athenian Oath during a convocation ceremony honoring MPA students at Syracuse University's Maxwell School. The oath's guiding principle,
News / September 8, 2023

From Churchill's Heartbeat to Leadership's Pulse: The Journey of Eric Campbell

Eric Campbell stands as a pillar in the Wilder School, merging academic theory with hands-on practice. But his narrative has many dimensions. As Harrisonburg, Va.'s first African-American city manager, his impact radiates from Richmond's Churchill roots to the dynamic streets of Charlotte and Dallas, painting a tale of relentless leadership, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to community enrichment.

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News / August 21, 2023

Welcome to the 2023-24 Academic Year!

Dear Wilder School Alumni, Friends and Supporters, Welcome to the 2023-24 academic year! As we step into the Fall semester, we do so full of pride for our numerous achievements and in anticipation of yet another first-class year at the Wilder School. 

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“Our recent Wilder School poll showed Virginians are concerned about the costs of living,” said L. Douglas Wilder, who served as the 66th governor of Virginia. “I’ve always had a one-word definition for politics — money — and the people are likewise focused on inflation and the skyrocketing cost of living.” Photo: Getty Images
News / August 8, 2023

VCU Wilder School Commonwealth Poll: Virginians see inflation and rising cost of living as most important issue facing the state

Virginians also cite concerns about climate change and artificial intelligence.

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The Wilder School's poll asked Virginians about a potential presidential race between President Joe Biden and Gov. Glenn Youngkin, as well as their approval ratings and recent Supreme Court decisions
News / August 3, 2023

VCU Wilder School Commonwealth Poll shows Virginians favor Youngkin over Biden for president

In a hypothetical political showdown between Virginia Governor Youngkin and President Biden, a new Commonwealth Poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University unveils an unexpected preference among Virginians. Youngkin's rising approval, contrasted with a divided sentiment on Biden, portrays a complex picture.

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Shifting demographics, increased education demands in new jobs and rising tuition expenses are creating a perfect storm of challenges in higher education.
News / July 31, 2023

Higher education expert Peter Blake explores the “perfect storm” facing our nation

How must colleges and universities successfully adapt in a rapidly changing environment? It’s a perpetual challenge that Peter Blake, director of  State Council of Higher Education for Virginia confronts as a key player in the commonwealth. During a recent Wilder School Lunch and Learn virtual seminar, Blake explored the uncertain future of higher education and offered strategies and opportunities for transformation.

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Elsie Harper-Anderson, an associate professor at the VCU Wilder School, was instrumental in shaping a new RAND Corporation study that explores the post-COVID-19 entrepreneurial surge. The research underscores the pivotal role local governments play in fostering thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems across six U.S. cities.
News / July 19, 2023

A new report by the Wilder School’s Elsie Harper-Anderson highlights the role of local governments in successful entrepreneurial ecosystems

A post-COVID-19 entrepreneurial surge in local governments sparked a RAND Corporation report, co-authored by Wilder School's Elsie Harper-Anderson. Surveying six U.S. cities, the report emphasizes the overlooked role of local governments in nurturing entrepreneurial ecosystems. Highlighting the variable allocation of support based on each city's economic objectives, the study calls for a deeper understanding of local government's influence on entrepreneurship.

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Peer Recovery Specialist Joy Bogese and Officer Travis Adams conversing on a ride along. Credit: Rolynn Wilson for WRIC ABC 8News.
News / July 11, 2023

From Chains to Change: Joy Bogese's Transformation from Addiction to Advocacy

Joy Bogese (M.S. '06) found redemption not amidst academic credentials, a thriving career, or middle-class comforts, but inside an unwanted haven: a jail cell. This was the battleground for her transformative victory over drug addiction. Emerging as a symbol of resilience, she's now a peer recovery specialist at Project Recover. Her past, once a source of anguish, now equips her as a formidable agent of change in the fight against addiction and reforming law enforcement attitudes.

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Keith Rogers, a dual VCU alumnus and Wilder School M,P.A. graduate, was recently named city manager in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. (Contributed photo)
News / July 5, 2023

South of the (Virginia) border, VCU alum Keith Rogers Jr., '10 M.P.A., takes the lead as city manager

With two VCU degrees, a decade in Richmond government and a stint in N.Va., Rogers is now leading Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

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