The Jennifer Byler Institute

APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO JANUARY 16, 2009!

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.

One of the most effective leadership training programs in the Commonwealth, the Jennifer Byler Institute is RPV's successful leadership training program dedicated specifically to women. Through the program, women are recruited and trained to participate effectively in politics and government at all levels. The women's leadership training program is named for the late Jennifer Curtis Byler, Republican National Committeewoman for Virginia from June 2000 until her untimely death in May 2001. Jenny Byler was a devoted wife and mother, and a dynamic, passionate political leader, dedicated to building the Republican Party and furthering the principles of limited government and expanded freedom

JBI was founded in 2003 and is headed by the first woman to head the Republican Party of Virginia, Kate Obenshain. Key to success of the program has been the involvement of board members Marty Kilgore and Susan Allen. The program has graduated four classes of women, all trained to take their involvement to the next level--whether it is running for elected office, running campaigns, raising money for candidates, working with the media, or organizing various efforts. Graduates have formed an alumni organization in order to promote JBI, recruit future participants, plan classes and encourage graduates in their advocacy and advancement of Republican principles.

Participants are selected through a competitive process beginning each November, which includes extensive applications and individual interviews. Each year, the program runs one weekend a month for eight months, and includes a meeting in Washington DC featuring Virginia's elected officials as well as other national leaders. Featuring the best political minds in Virginia and beyond, JBI speakers have included Frank Atkinson, Lee Edwards, Betsy Beamer, Bob Gibson and Michelle Easton as well as virtually all of Virginia's current and past Republican statewide elected officials.

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 establish an effective statewide political network which women can utilize to increase their career opportunities

Curriculum

History of Virginia, Federalism and the Republican Party
Party Philosophy
Leadership Skills
Public Speaking
Establishing Goals
Making Contacts
Fundraising
Intent & Interest
Strategy & Planning
Party Nominating Processes
Campaign Finance
Media Relations
Grassroots Activism

Apply for the JBI Class of 2009 Now!

Download, print and mail in your application. Specific directions are listed in the application. Application Deadline extended to January 16:

2009 JBI Application