The Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership Gateway

Why the Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership (VWIL)? This comprehensive four-year program introduces you to leadership for public service, including the military. The program engages students in the study and practice of leadership and requires physical training and participation in ROTC. It is the only all-female cadet corps in the nation and it prepares you to take charge.
Who may apply? The Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership is open to all students in the Residential College for Women. Your academic record and physical fitness may be factors in your selection into the program.
Will I take classes as part of the VWIL program? In addition to your academic schedule you will also take:
- MBC 101: Orientation to College and to the VWIL Program (1 credit)
- ROTC: Army, Air Force, Navy/Marines (1 credit)
- Physical Education: Leadership Challenge, Wilderness Adventure, Advanced Fitness (1.5 credits)
What extra-curricular activities will I be participating in? As a nULL (first year cadet) you will participate in three formations each week; you will march in parades each month; you with attend leadership seminars oriented towards career interests and leadership development. Activities such as drill team, marching band, and Honor Guard are optional. Evening study hours are required.
Where will I live? You will live as a nULL class in Woodson Residence Hall.
Meet the staff. Brig. Gen. Mike Bissell is Commandant of Cadets. Your Director of Leadership Programs and first-year advisor is Velma Bryant ’01. Karen Parker directs admissions and Capt. Julia Ireland (MBC/VWIL ’04) is Chief of Staff.
Beyond the First Year. VWIL is a four-year program permitting you to elect a commission in one of the armed forces if you so choose. You will assume leadership positions in the Corps beginning in your sophomore year and you will earn a minor and a certificate in leadership studies. Corps activities, including physical training, continue throughout the program. You will reside together as a class each year, will be held to a code of professional standards, and will be encouraged to pursue leadership opportunities throughout Mary Baldwin College as well as within VWIL.
How do I apply? Fill out the supplemental application (PDF). For more information contact Karen Parker at 540-887-7020 or kparker@mbc.edu.

“As a VWIL cadet, I have the ‘best of both worlds.’ I get to participate in all MBC activities and have opportunities to apply my skills as a leader in the corps of cadets and in my everyday life.”

Manuela “Wella” Belser ’11
dual citizen of Switzerland and the U.S.