Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What can participants of the VALOR fellowship hope to gain from the program?

A:  According to our vision statement, the Virginia Agriculture Leaders Obtaining Results (VALOR) program will provide a sustainable future for Virginia's agricultural community by maximizing potential for successful growth through a system of networking, collaborative decision-making, and development of strong leaders.  This encompasses industry/rural/community viability by addressing social, political, and economic issues on the local, state, national and international level.  Class members will benefit both from the standpoint of gained and enhanced skills (both intra and interpersonal) as well as articulation of an expanded knowledge of global issues through advocacy and engagement.  

Q: Who will see my application and what will you do with the information shared on it?

A:  Your application will only be viewed by the program director and the selection committee for each class.  All personal information will be kept confidential and applications will be kept in locked files with the director.  Questions you are asked to complete are similar to those used by programs in other states and help us get to know you and your ideas.  It also helps us select a well-rounded cohort group for each class.

Q: What are the seminar dates?

A:  The program seminar dates are outlined in the Calendar for Class VII 2024-26.  These dates have been set for planning purposes.  If they are adjusted, it will only be slightly and any changes will be determined well in advance of the affected seminar.  All changes will also be properly communicated with, and perhaps determined by, class members.

Q: How much does a VALOR Fellowship cost?

A:  Each VALOR Fellow is asked to contribute $5,500 toward the cost of the program, which is valued at approximately $20,000.  Corporate and individual sponsors believe in the value of this program and the potential of its participants to shape the future of our industry, exemplified by support of 75% of program investment.  Class members are permitted to have the tuition subsidized by employers or other entities wishing to invest in their successful involvement with VALOR.  The fee is typically paid in one or two installments, but arrangements may be made differently as individuals are accepted to the program.

Q: Are there any additional costs associated with the VALOR program?

A:  From commencement to adjournment of each seminar, expenses for the program will be covered.  This includes meals, lodging, and ground/air transportation.  Class members will be asked to cover their own expenses incurred while getting to each seminar site.  For example, if a seminar is in a different part of the state from where you live/work, you may have fuel, food, and time to get there.  Most start times will allow travel on seminar day one.  If lodging the night before is necessary, this will be on your own.  For travel out-of-state, we will leave from a location accessible to participants by car.  Additionally, we will offer apparel and other items to class members that will be available for purchase on an optional basis.

Q: What happens after completion of the VALOR Program?

A:  After completing the program, participants will be part of an Alumni group that will encourage and support future classes, engage actively in advocating for agriculture and communities, and increase engagement through leadership roles around Virginia and beyond.

Q: If I can’t participate can I apply to a future VALOR class?

A:  Of course!  VALOR will welcome a new class every two years.  Currently, classes will begin in September of each even year (2016, 2018, 2020 and so on).