On February 13, the Richmond Omni Hotel provided the backdrop for an exceptional event, hosted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

The Wilder School's Second Annual Legislative Reception brought together nearly 300 attendees from the public service and legislative sectors, along with talented Wilder School alumni and students shaping public policy and fostering leadership.

View the Legislative Reception in photos

Among our esteemed attendees was the school’s namesake, Governor L. Douglas Wilder, whose insights and legacy added gravitas to the proceedings. 

“I was very pleased to participate with our Dean and school representatives,” said Governor Wilder. The opportunity to meet with representatives of the people and to share views furthers conversations relative to the needs of the people.” 

“These kinds of events allow for a healthy exchange of ideas to review what needs to be done — or what needs to be undone if necessary — in Virginia governance. I congratulate Dean Gooden for furthering the opportunities for us to be so engaged.”
– Governor L. Douglas Wilder 

The event drew a gathering of Richmond policymakers, lobbyists, agency heads, non-profit leaders, and likely gubernatorial hopefuls, including former U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger and Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears.

"This year’s reception underscored the Wilder School’s role as a powerful conduit for policy and leadership,” shared Susan Gooden, dean of the Wilder School. “We are especially grateful to our namesake, Governor L. Douglas Wilder, whose presence and leadership continue to inspire our mission. With everyone from faculty to alumni to likely gubernatorial candidates in attendance, the evening reflected the critical partnerships and exchange of ideas shaping the future of governance.”

Beyond networking, the event explored initiatives underway throughout the Wilder School Office of Research and Outreach,  including the Center for Public Policy, Research Institute for Social Equity, Survey Evaluation and Research Laboratory, the RVA Eviction Lab, and Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute. These centers are recognized, research trailblazers,  blending academic research with actionable solutions to improve policy and governance.

“Collaborations with legislators and policymakers are critical to the research the Wilder School leads on behalf of the commonwealth,” shared Robyn McDougle, associate dean of research and outreach. “Our goal is to continue to develop impactful partnerships to advance sound governance for Virginians.”

“More than just a gathering, the event sparked meaningful dialogue and showcased the extraordinary thought leadership within our Centers and Institutes — where research and engagement are actively driving real-world impact.”
– Susan Gooden, dean of the Wilder School 

The evening celebrated not only cross-sector collaboration but also the vital connections and shared visions that propel local, state and national public service forward. It’s a catalyst for policy discourse and relationship building that the Wilder School looks forward to continuing.