Virginia Government Simulation
October 20–22, 2026 | VCU & Virginia State Capitol, Richmond, VA
The third annual Virginia Government Simulation will be hosted by the Baldacci Institute for Civil Discourse at Virginia Commonwealth University
Additional details will be posted soon. The Intent to Send a Delegation form will open on July 15.
Please see the 2026 Legislative Drafting Manual, which includes the full legislative calendar for the 2026 session.
What is VGS?
Modeled on real-world governance, VGS allows students to:
- Draft and introduce legislation
- Elect party leadership
- Debate, amend, and vote on bills in committee and on the floor
Through hands-on, role-based participation, students develop critical skills in research, public speaking, negotiation and evidence-based decision-making—skills vital not just for public service, but for leadership in any career path.
Who Can Participate?
Undergraduate students from Virginia universities, colleges and community colleges are welcome to participate—no prior experience is required. VGS is a uniquely inclusive space for developing legislative literacy and civic leadership, regardless of academic major or political affiliation.
Event Overview
📍 Location: Virginia State Capitol, Richmond, VA
🗓️ Dates: October 20-22, 2026
🕐 Format:
- Morning committe session
- Afternoon floor debates
- Evenings reserved for social and civic programming (walking tours, networking, etc.)
This year's simulation builds on lessons from past conferences, with expanded committe time, streamlined procedures, and more opportunities for student leadership.
2026 VGS Schedule at a Glance
Note: This is a preliminary schedule; details are subject to change.
Tuesday, October 20
- 9:00–9:30 a.m. — Arrival at VCU or designated location for check-in
- 9:30–10:00 a.m. — Opening remarks and instructions
- 10:00–11:30 a.m. — Party caucus and leadership elections
- 11:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — Speaker election and committee chair appointments
- 12:00–1:00 p.m. — Lunch
- 1:00–5:00 p.m. — Committee session, ending with the Governor’s State of the Simulation Address
- 5:00–6:00 p.m. — Leadership meeting
Wednesday, October 21
- 9:00–9:30 a.m. — Arrival at the Capitol and instructions
- 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — Floor session
- 12:00–1:30 p.m. — Lunch
- 1:30–2:00 p.m. — Delegate/Senator Q&A with students
- 2:00–4:30 p.m. — Floor session
Thursday, October 22 - Crossover Day
- 9:00–9:30 a.m. — Arrival at VCU or designated location for instructions and updates
- 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — Committee meetings
- 12:00–1:30 p.m. — Lunch and travel to the Capitol
- 1:30–4:00 p.m. — Floor session
- 4:00–4:30 p.m. — Official delegation photos
- 5:30–7:30 p.m. — Closing reception with Governor’s signing ceremony and awards