Q: How much does a VALOR Fellowship cost?
A: Each VALOR Fellow is asked to contribute $5,500 toward the cost of the program, which is valued at approximately $20,000. Corporate and individual sponsors believe in the value of this program and the potential of its participants to shape the future of our industry, exemplified by support of 75% of program investment. Class members are permitted to have the tuition subsidized by employers or other entities wishing to invest in their successful involvement with VALOR. The fee is typically paid in one or two installments, but arrangements may be made differently as individuals are accepted to the program.
Q: Are there any additional costs associated with the VALOR program?
A: From commencement to adjournment of each seminar, expenses for the program will be covered. This includes meals, lodging, and ground/air transportation. Class members will be asked to cover their own expenses incurred while getting to each seminar site. For example, if a seminar is in a different part of the state from where you live/work, you may have fuel, food, and time to get there. Most start times will allow travel on seminar day one. If lodging the night before is necessary, this will be on your own. For travel out-of-state, we will leave from a location accessible to participants by car. Additionally, we will offer apparel and other items to class members that will be available for purchase on an optional basis.
Q: What happens after completion of the VALOR Program?
A: After completing the program, participants will be part of an Alumni group that will encourage and support future classes, engage actively in advocating for agriculture and communities, and increase engagement through leadership roles around Virginia and beyond.
Q: If I can’t participate can I apply to a future VALOR class?
A: Of course! VALOR will welcome a new class every two years. Currently, classes will begin in September of each even year (2016, 2018, 2020 and so on).