Program Details

We are accepting applications for the 2025-2026 RCLI Fellowship. Applications are due July 11.

The RCLI Fellowship is a nine month leadership program for emerging gospel-centered leaders in Richmond focused on civic influence and spiritual formation.

RCLI selects an annual class of up to 30 members from an array of professions and representing diverse denominational and church affiliations.  Monthly, the Fellows explore our region’s issues and consider them from a Christ-centered perspective.  Faculty are talented leaders who bring the issues to life and illustrate what it is to act upon the values of Jesus.

2025-2026 Session Dates + Topics

The monthly topics of the Fellowship are designed to establish an understanding of the issues facing our region and how the ecosystem of our community engages with those issues (government, churches, non-profits, and businesses). We integrate this information with lessons in Christian leadership through Scripture and the practice of spiritual disciplines.

January 10: Education
Public/private overview, school boards, trade schools and workforce development

February 7: Health
Access to healthcare, chronic issues, rise of technology

March 21: Justice
Neighborhood safety, community involvement, police forces, jail systems, interventions

April 11: Immigration
Resources, support systems, processes

May 15-16: Bringing it all Together (retreat)

September 12-13: Setting the Stage (Retreat)

October 4: The Richmond Region
Understanding our context and history

November 1: Development
Transportation, Housing, Land Use, Infrastructure

December: Small Groups

Program Structure

Weekend Sessions

Fellows meet once per month on a Saturday. These sessions feature speakers, activities and experiences – focused on a specific topic and led by city leaders. The weekend sessions in September and May are in-town retreats.

The RCLI Fellowship is a nine month program that runs from September through May. The rhythm and structure of the program is comprised of three elements.

Discussion Groups

Fellows regularly meet in small groups to connect socially, discuss readings and reflect on professional development work. Small groups meet once a month on a weeknight and are overseen by a group leader.

Self-Guided Activities

The Fellowship is designed to motivate you to action. With this in mind, we incorporate personal and professional development assignments, readings and scripture passages, and spiritual discipline practice.

The Ideal Fellow

We’re looking for gospel-centered emerging leaders who have an opportunity for influence. We’re looking for people with a desire to grow, and a hunger to connect with others. RCLI attracts Fellows from all over metro Richmond – people from different cultural backgrounds, denominations, and parts of town.

Apply now for the 2025-2026 RCLI Fellowship.

Our People

  • We unpacked so many topics – and I made friends with people I wouldn't have otherwise have met.

    Vincent White

  • "As someone new to Richmond, the RCLI Fellowship served as a beautiful catalyst for me."

    Kyle Ficker

  • "The relationships were so genuine – I met people who all have a heart for our city."

    Scherra Valentine

  • The RCLI Fellowship was filled with rich content, engaging collaboration, and real-world application. It provided an unbelievable foundation for me.

    Chris Luhrman

  • The RCLI Fellowship taught me that I need the connection, the fellowship, and the perspectives of others in order to be the best version of myself.

    Anna Koehle