Mariam Ismail, digital projects coordinator with Virginia Tech Publishing and University Libraries at Virginia Tech, has been selected for the 2026 cohort of the Virginia Library Leadership Academy (VALLA), administered by the Virginia Library Association.

Ismail was one of 22 participants chosen from more than 85 applicants across the commonwealth. Selected applicants demonstrated a strong commitment to VALLA’s core values of equity, accessibility, inclusivity, personal growth, and community building.

A photo of a group of academy participants with a large backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
A group of participants who attended the three-day in-person leadership academy. Photo courtesy of Mariam Ismail.

As a part of the development program, Ismail attended a three-day, in-person leadership academy in March, which will be followed by a yearlong experience focused on mentorship, professional development, and individualized leadership growth. 

“I leave the academy with a renewed commitment to leading with creativity, accountability, and integrity, and with a stronger understanding of how libraries can serve as spaces for public good,” said Ismail. “This experience reinforced that library leadership happens at every level and plays a critical role in strengthening our communities, our colleagues, and the future of our profession.”

VALLA is a competitive leadership development program designed to cultivate emerging leaders across library types. The cohort represents a diverse mix of academic and public library professionals, along with a library school student, bringing a range of perspectives and lived experiences to the program.

“As I continue to shape my professional trajectory, I now have a clearer framework for thinking about growth and impact in a human-centered way,” said Ismail. “I will carry forward the lessons, conversations, and sense of purpose that this academy fostered.” 

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