Building upon the annual Distinguished Educational Leadership Awards, The Post established the Principals Leadership Institute in 1997 to offer a broader perspective on effective leadership with specific emphasis on self-motivation. Named in honor of Dr. Vincent Reed, a longtime educator and retired Post executive, each session provides a forum for discussion of the basic personal qualities that underline leadership. Principals from the 19 area public school systems as well as from private schools may apply to attend. (Recipients of The Post's Distinguished Educational Leadership Award are not eligible.)

The Institute features speakers who focus on ways for school principals to achieve a more defined sense of self while encouraging an exchange of creative and innovative ideas to empower them to lead. The Institute also provides formal and informal discussion settings to share problems and concerns, and offers opportunities for participants to hear from nationally known leaders. Following the initial two-day summer Institute, there are three additional full-day sessions held throughout the year. There is no charge for the Institute.