Building the Next Generation of Transit Leaders
It’s graduation season, and in May, I was honored to be among 15 transit professionals who graduated from the Virginia Transit Association’s (VTA) Virginia Transit Leadership Institute (VTLI). We were the third cohort to complete the program since its launch in 2023.
VTA Executive Director Danny Plaugher says the program was created to build a stronger pipeline of transit leadership.
“Getting that exposure and seeing a little bit, even if it’s a quick snapshot of how other agencies do things, so that we as a community can grow and improve,” Plaugher says.
Building on national models, VTLI is based on a leadership program from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). Noelle Pinkard, Organizational Advancement Officer at Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), was on the committee that developed the curriculum.
“We wanted every participant to walk away with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing public transportation in Virginia, and the confidence to make a difference in their communities,” Pinkard says.
A Network of Transit Advocates
Participants, selected through a competitive application process from transit agencies across the Commonwealth, formed a diverse group. This year’s cohort included people in various stages of their careers, from novices like me to long-time transit advocates. Multiple departments were represented, including marketing and communications, government relations, operations, planning, safety, training, finance, procurement, maintenance, and more.
The program kicked off in September, when Hampton Roads Transit hosted the first session. Participants heard from HRT President and CEO William Harrell, who is retiring later this year.
“The Virginia Transit Leadership Institute is growing the next generation of transit leadership,” Harrell says. “We need strong leaders to advocate for the future of public transit.”
Over the next nine months, I crisscrossed the Commonwealth, visiting transit agencies, planning commissions, and the Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT). The program provided an opportunity to network with other transit professionals, learn how their organizations operate, and gain a broader understanding of the challenges and successes within public transportation. We also heard from senior executives about their leadership journeys.
Fellows also had an opportunity to participate in the VTA’s Transit Advocacy Day in Richmond. The group met with Virginia lawmakers to advocate for public transit. The cohort was even recognized in the House of Delegates and Senate chambers.
Reflections from the Cohort
Cynthia Porter Johnson is the Manager of Grants and Procurement for the Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission and OmniRide. She described her experience as “incredible” and “exceeding all expectations.”
“The opportunity to visit transit agencies across Virginia and see firsthand how transportation services are delivered to diverse communities was truly eye-opening,” Porter Johnson says. “One of the most rewarding aspects was connecting with fellow VTLI participants, learning about their roles, and gaining insight into how they support their respective agencies.”
Porter Johnson says she walked away from the program with personal growth and meaningful connections.
Jeannie Leonard, Director of Transportation at Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia in Norfolk, shared a similar sentiment, calling the experience “insightful and rewarding.”
“VTLI strengthened my understanding of leadership—not just from an operational standpoint, but in terms of communication, collaboration, and supporting both staff and riders effectively,” Leonard says. “Overall, the program gave me a greater appreciation for the role transit plays in connecting communities and the importance of strong leadership within the industry.”
My colleague, HRT Marketing Communications Strategist Katie Fenimore, was selected for the second VTLI class in 2025. She said it was a wonderful experience.
“I visited new cities, tried new transit systems, and met other transit professionals, all working in different roles,” Fenimore recalls. “It was helpful to reflect on what our organization does well and areas where we could improve. Each region, though perhaps different from one another, all need public transit options for their citizens.”
Lessons Learned
Feedback from previous VTLI cohorts has been overwhelmingly positive, according to Plaugher. One of the most valued aspects is hearing senior executives share their personal career journeys, providing insight into the many pathways into public transit leadership.
“Everybody gets to transit different ways,” Plaugher points out. “It’s critically important to convey that no matter how you got here, you’re here and we want to keep you here.”
Plaugher says one of the most important things emerging leaders can do is “get out there and learn a little bit about your own agency.”
This perspective inspired this year’s final project, where fellows interviewed a community partner, a customer, and a colleague, then delivered a three-minute presentation on how public transit impacts their region. The project encouraged firsthand exploration and reflection on transit’s role in the community.
“The incredible diversity of the presentations was one of the most exciting parts,” Plaugher says. “It was inspiring, and I fully enjoyed it.”
“VTLI is one of [VTAs] most exciting programs,” Plaugher adds. “I am hoping the fellows who have gone through the program have a greater appreciation for everything that goes into public transit.”
As I reflect on my experience with the Virginia Transit Leadership Institute, I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from inspiring leaders, connect with talented peers, and gain a deeper understanding of the vital role public transit plays across our communities. The program broadened my perspective and strengthened my commitment to advocating for reliable, efficient, safe, and sustainable public transit. I look forward to applying the lessons learned and continuing to grow as a transit professional alongside this remarkable network.
