Bringing economic prosperity to rural communities throughout Virginia.
Joined July 2014
- Tweets 3,013
- Following 1,374
- Followers 1,489
- Likes 1,040
869 Photos and videos
“Whatever issue you are passionate about, be sure to talk with each other — not at each other.”
Martha Moore, Senior VP of Governmental Relations for the @VaFarmBureau , brought a powerful perspective to the #VRLI cohort on advocating for farmers and rural priorities.
1
43
Her message was clear: it starts with relationships. Engage with legislators the same way you would your local boards — get to know them and stay involved.
Her advice for making real progress? “Don’t just tell them about your issues — learn about their issues.”
20
“We dove in headfirst.”
Ashley Wind led a tour of Wind Vineyards, which she and her husband Tyler have co-owned since the vineyard’s founding in 2021.
1
68
She described their vision for the space as more than a winery — it’s a destination designed to draw both locals and visitors to Tappahannock, serving as a community gathering and entertainment hub that hosts concerts alongside its wine offerings.
37
With every graduating class, #VRLI’s alumni network grows stronger — and they continue to pay it forward to the current cohort.
1
63
Last night, VRLI graduates joined the 2026 cohort for an alumni reception at Old Rappahannock Taphouse — sharing advice, encouragement, and stories of where the program has taken them. Thank you for joining us!
40
The 2026 #VRLI cohort got a masterclass in media training from Stephanie Heinatz, Founder and Managing Partner of @ConsociateMedia — covering how to show up prepared, confident, and on message. She even put them through some live interview practice!
1
27
Stephanie and Consociate Media have been invaluable partners to VRLI and the Rural Center, helping amplify and share our work with broader audiences.
16
Thank you to Delegate @HillaryPughKent for speaking with the 2026 #VRLI cohort.
It was especially meaningful to hear from her in Richmond County — the community where she was born, raised, continues to live, and proudly serves in the General Assembly.
1
82
We are grateful for her continued support of VRLI and appreciate her returning each year to invest in the next generation of rural leaders.
44
Welcome to Warsaw!
Assistant Town Manager Missy Coates and Town Treasurer Julia Blackley-Rice welcomed the cohort to a town that’s been completely transformed — made possible through smart investments, committed local leadership, and a deep community partnership.
1
58
Liz Povar, Principal at the RiverLink Group and CFRV board member, spoke to the power of building a strong network and the impact it can have on driving meaningful change.
1
53
A longtime friend of #VRLI, Liz has been a fantastic mentor to cohort members — and will be doing so again this year!
45
"What makes it all worth it are the strong relationships you build along the way."
Greg Huff — co-owner of the Essex Inn and 1710 Tavern, chef, and president of the Tappahannock-Essex Chamber of Commerce — knows a thing or two about wearing multiple hats.
1
64
He joined us to talk about revitalizing historic buildings in Tappahannock, navigating grant funding, and how that work has boosted tourism, deepened community ties, and honored the town's rich history.
44
A special shoutout to Nate Parker, who has graciously hosted us every year since VRLI was founded.
And look who’s back! Mayor Gladding joined us for a second straight day, participating in both Day 1 and Day 2 of our Tappahannock visit.
36
A bright and sunny day on the Rappahannock River!
Captain Daniel Kurdziel of Tip-Sea Charters and Nate Parker of June Parker Marina took the #VRLI cohort out on the water this morning.
1
1
73
They got a firsthand look at what makes this river so special — including its history, its economic impact, and the communities that depend on it every single day.
Featuring a special guest: Rivah Dog Oliver!
1
33
Last night, the #VRLI cohort gathered for dinner at 1710 Tavern and we were glad to have Mayor Gladding join us to welcome the group to Tappahannock!
1
69
Mayor Gladding has been a supporter of VRLI since the very beginning. As he wraps up his final year as Mayor, we appreciate his continued support for the program and the folks coming through it.
34