The Virginia W. Harris LEAD Academy (LEAD Academy) is the vision of National President Virginia W. Harris. It is the first of its type aimed at organizational sustainability for the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (NCBW).

The LEAD Academy is a venue where NCBW members who represent the next generation of organization leaders and who are interested in moving into chapter and national leadership positions, are appropriately trained for their roles, adhering to the NCBW Mission Statement. Building upon the legacy of Founder, Mrs. Edna Beach, training is mission-driven. Preparing future leaders not only is vital to the sustainability of NCBW and its affiliate chapters, but essential to ensuring an ongoing, cohesive organization that retains its relevancy in the 21st century and beyond. Participants are taught processes from top down, and bottom up, to ensure management consistency throughout all NCBW chapters. The LEAD Academy practices the servant leadership model – “lead with respect.”

This 13-month leadership development program is for members ages 30 to 50 years, who primarily are at mid-level attainment in their careers. Candidates have demonstrated a commitment to NCBW through prior participations in programs, advocacy or civic engagement efforts at either the chapter or national level. The LEAD Academy is limited to 12 participants who are selected in accordance with the application guidelines.