In fall 2023 and into spring 2024, Vaughn Garland, Ph.D., Youth Education Manager at the Mary and Frances Youth Center and friend of VPOST, solicited the expertise of community partners, program staff, and regional experts in youth development to design an 80-hour, three-semester curriculum that is now the management program.

He also formed a partnership with VCU Continuing and Professional Education to develop the pathway for registration and credentialing of the certificate. CPE works closely with the Division of Community Engagement to ensure the program addresses local issues and aligns with VCU's educational mission.

"The certificate strengthens connections between trained professionals and the community while fostering meaningful, long-term careers in this vital field." - Vaughn Garland, Ph.D.

The first cohort of the Advanced Certificate in Youth Development Management Program will soon graduate! Registration is open for the next cohort until August 7th.

To learn more about this certificate program, and the work from VCU's Division of Community Engagement, check out this article here.