Designed Specifically for the Next Generation of Leaders
Beginning in 2026, the Emerging Legislative Leaders Program will be renamed the Melissa Hortman Emerging Leaders Program in honor of the late Melissa Hortman, past Speaker of the House of Minnesota and program alumna.
Hortman attended the program as an emerging leader herself in 2009. During her time in leadership, both as a Minority Leader and later as Speaker of the House, Hortman submitted nominees to the program every year without fail. SLLF could think of no higher honor than attaching her name to this rigorous leadership training. If each attendee departs leading a bit more like Melissa did, their states and our country will forever be better for it.
The program, held every July on the campus of the University of Virginia, in partnership with the distinguished Darden School of Business is designed specifically for the next generation of leaders in our state legislatures.
Up to 50 of the best and brightest state legislators from across the nation take part in 4 days of challenging classroom discussions, led by a team of professors at the Darden School. Since 2005, over 1,000 legislators have benefited from their experience at this program, and a significant number have continued their careers in public service. Many have achieved positions of leadership in their states.
Through this unique program, SLLF and Darden seek to broaden the perspectives of these men and women, instilling in them a clear understanding of their responsibilities as custodians of the public’s trust. We seek to inspire them to meet the challenges of the future with confidence and vigor.
Additional Information
What Attendees Say
“This program exceeded ALL of my expectations & preconceived notions. Removing the political challenges we all face everyday & focusing on how much we have in common will change the face & future of politics. Elected officials have a responsibility to be role models & the SLLF team upholds that same level of professionalism. Thank You Darden, SLLF & all sponsors/donors. Your investment into America is needed & profound.”
Stuart Schmidt, Jr.
Delegate, Maryland
