The Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce has named Peter Stephenson chairman of the Leadership Isle of Wight program, which begins in January.

Stephenson has been the Town Manager for Smithfield since 1996. He is a graduate of Iowa State University and received his Master of Planning from the University of Virginia.

The Lead program will give him an opportunity to incorporate his extensive knowledge of public policy and community service skills through his extensive involvement in professional development programs throughout the Commonwealth, Chamber officials said.

While in Smithfield, Stephenson has served as Lt. Governor of the Capital District Kiwanis, president of the Virginia Local Government Management Association, served on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Downtown Development Association, and is a graduate of the Senior Executive Institute, University of Virginia.

“Having been involved with Leadership Isle of Wight since its inception, it is my pleasure to serve as the chairman of the planning committee for the upcoming Class of 2013,” Stephenson said. “Many of our community leaders are graduates of this Chamber program, which has had a very positive impact here in Isle of Wight County,” said Mr. Stephenson.

To apply for the Leadership Isle of Wight program, send an email to mmarchant@theisle.org or call the chamber office at 357-3502. The class will be limited to 25 students.