Jennifer Byler Institute (JBI)
Mission Statement
The mission of the Jennifer Byler Institute is to increase the number of effective Republican women in public service and party leadership by providing extensive training and support as these women pursue their political and/or professional goals. The successful completion of this political leadership development program will prepare, motivate and inspire women to assume key roles in both political and public service.
The Jennifer Byler Institute is named in honor of Jennifer Byler, a longtime Republican Party leader and former National Committeewoman from Virginia. The Jennifer Byler Institute is modeled after the successful Richard G. Lugar Excellence in Public Service Series, which began in Indiana in 1990.
About Us
The Jennifer Byler Institute is modeled after the successful Richard G. Lugar Excellence in Public Service Series, which began in Indiana in 1990.
Objectives
- To encourage, support and prepare class members to assume leadership positions in Virginia government and politics by providing an intensive seven-month training program.
- To serve as a forum, as well as a resource, for participants to achieve greater talent in the fields of government and politics, and further their public service ambitions.
- To provide qualified participants with access to political and state government leaders responsible for candidate recruitment and appointments.
- To provide a model for women across the Commonwealth to take initiative, become involved politically and gain influence in public policy and service.
- To establish an effective statewide political network which women can utilize to increase their career opportunities.
- To educate women in the business of professional politics and the governing process.
The program fulfills these critical objectives by
- Proving women's existing leadership skills can and should be used in government and politics;
- Introducing members to the people and resources they need to succeed as political leaders;
- Helping members define or refine their own political aspirations.
Curriculum
History of Virginia, Federals and the Republican Party
Party Philosophy
Leadership Skills
Establishing Goals
Making Contacts/Networking
Campaigns and Elections
Fundraising
Intent and Interest
Strategy and Planning
Party Nomination Process
Campaign Finance Laws
Media Relations/Public Speaking
Grassroots Activism
How the Program Operates
Participants are chosen through a competitive application process by the Board of Directors. The Series runs from February through August, meeting the second Saturday of every month. All meetings are held at the RPV headquarters in Richmond, except one meeting on capitol hill in June. There is no fee to participate; participants are responsible for their travel to and from Richmond.
How to Apply
Please contact Camm Tyler for more information.
Our Board
Board of Directors
Kate Obenshain Griffin, Chairman
The Honorable Anne Petera, Secretary
Senator Jeannemarie Devolites Davis
Former First Lady of Virginia Susan Allen
Former First Lady of Virginia Roxane Gilmore
Marty Kilgore
Cathy Gillespie
Additional Founding Members
U.S. Rep. Thelma Drake
Delegate Kathy Byron
Delegate Michele McQuigg
Delegate Melanie Rapp
Delegate Beverly Sherwood
Delegate Terrie Suit
Paula Willoughby, President, VFRW
