LTI APril 20-22, 2026 Register HERE

APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP HERE BY 2/25/26

Leadership Training Institute (LTI) is the premier leadership development experience for professionals in the parks and recreation field. Designed for both emerging and seasoned leaders, LTI is an exclusive opportunity to expand your leadership capacity, deepen your professional network and reignite your commitment to public service.

This immersive two-day program is intentionally structured to challenge participants, foster personal growth and strengthen leadership skills that translate directly back to the workplace. LTI goes beyond traditional professional development—participants are fully engaged in a retreat-style environment that emphasizes collaboration, reflection and shared learning.

At the heart of the LTI experience is connection. Networking is woven into every aspect of the Institute, creating meaningful opportunities to build relationships with peers from across the state which is increasingly beneficial as professionals continue to navigate evolving challenges in our field. Many participants leave LTI with not only new perspectives, but a trusted support network that lasts throughout their careers.

LTI is hosted at Wintergreen Resort, a stunning mountaintop setting that enhances the retreat experience and encourages participants to step away from daily distractions and fully engage. Attendees stay in smoke-free, co-ed homes designed to promote group interaction, teamwork and relationship-building. Each participant has a single-occupancy bedroom, with shared bathrooms among housemates (generally of the same sex). All educational sessions, social events and house activities are mandatory, reinforcing the immersive and collaborative nature of the Institute, but there will also be some time set aside for leisure activities. Participants are encouraged to carpool and should be prepared for steep, curvy rural roads and changing mountain weather conditions.

Why Leadership Training Institute?

• Proven Career Impact
  Over 90% of Directors and Upper Management professionals in Virginia parks & recreation departments are LTI graduates—making it one of the most influential leadership pipelines in the field.
• Unmatched Setting
  Experience leadership development in a true retreat environment at a mountaintop resort, where setting and space enhance learning, reflection and connection.
• Engaging, High-Energy Learning
  LTI is known for its dynamic, interactive sessions—featuring hands-on activities, games and engaging presenters that challenge you to discover and strengthen your leadership style.
• Powerful Networking
  Build lasting relationships with professionals from across the commonwealth, exchange ideas, grow your confidence and develop a support system that extends far beyond the Institute.
• Professional Certification
  Earn .6 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain certifications or support your path toward professional certification.
• All-Inclusive Experience
  Registration includes condo accommodations (single bedroom), three meals, educational and interactive sessions, networking events       and CEUs—allowing you to focus fully on learning and growth.

LTI is more than your typical conference—it’s a defining professional experience that shapes leaders, strengthens careers and connects the future of parks and recreation. We hope to see you “on the mountain!”