Each year, CoVaBiz Magazine asks our business community to nominate young professionals who are leading the way and making a difference in Coastal Virginia. As always, the honorees selected this year came from an impressive pool of nominations and were chosen for demonstrated excellence in their professional endeavors, and for the significant contributions they’ve made to the broader community. We were particularly impressed by the range of businesses and organizations our honorees represent, and by the wide variety of ways our honorees engage with their local communities through mentoring and volunteer efforts. Congratulations to all!
Compiled by Beth Hester | Photography by David Uhrin
About the CoVaBIZ NextGen Awards
To choose the 2024 NextGen Awards honorees, CoVaBIZ held an online nomination period in which exceptional young professionals were nominated by a colleague, relative or friend, or nominated themselves. All nominations were reviewed by a diverse panel. We thank Austin Gregory and Jinal Kothari, two of last year’s honorees who served on this year’s panel. Selections were made based on demonstrated business excellence, community involvement and civic contributions in the
Coastal Virginia region.
Lindsey Anderson
Lindsey Anderson
Executive Director
Vision Driven 757
Lindsey Anderson is an advocate for change. Currently residing in Portsmouth, Lindsey has spent most of her life determined to make the world a better place for everyone. Lindsey is the founder and executive director of Vision Driven 757, an empowerment speaker, youth focused workshop facilitator, children’s book author, and a community advocate. With Vision Driven 757, a 501c3, Lindsey has worked to provide support to the youth of underserved areas and their families through programs, initiatives, and events.
Lindsey says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…the lunch program I created at the start of the pandemic. Lunch on Us, served children impacted from the school shut down, delivering over 8,500 meals and food items to over 200 families in Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Chesapeake. My next big goal is…to expand our team, secure a new location and develop more resources and opportunities for parents seeking support and a safe space to learn and grow, ultimately benefiting our children and their households. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…”We all have gifts. Don’t let fear allow you to deny the world of your greatness.” Something not many people know about me is that…I love musicals! My current favorite being Hamilton and my overall favorite being RENT.
Skylar Bacevich
Skylar Bacevich
Manager of Global Internal Communications
PRA Group
Skylar Bacevich manages global internal communications for PRA Group, Inc., a public company headquartered in Norfolk. She previously managed PRA Group’s public relations and formerly built multi-industry experience at Cecilia Russo Marketing in Savannah, Georgia. Skylar serves as vice chair of the Young Philanthropists Council with United Way of South Hampton Roads; vice president and communication chair of the local University of Georgia alumni chapter; co-chair of PRSA Hampton Roads’ Programs Committee; a member of Downtown Norfolk Ladies; and a student mentor.
Skylar says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…making my department more collaborative. The communications field is fast-moving, and I’ve worked to develop a project management system that allows our team to have visibility on ongoing projects and coordinate communications strategy. This empowers us to leverage our resources and ideas to create the greatest impact with a high degree of messaging consistency across various audiences and channels. My next big goal is…having recently moved from managing public relations to internal communications, my next big goal is to enhance engagement and connectivity across our global organizations through impactful initiatives and campaigns. The best piece of advice I have ever received is… to not take oneself too seriously. It makes every curveball that comes your way more manageable. Something not many people know about me is that…between an undergraduate study abroad and my master’s in contemporary English literature from the University of Edinburgh, not many people know that I’ve lived in the U.K. for nearly a year and a half. While I was there, I wrote a dissertation about the “Harry Potter” series.
Anthony Ball
Anthony Ball
Senior Director of Advancement at the
Raymond A. Mason School of Business
William & Mary
Anthony Ball is the Senior Director of Advancement at the Raymond A. Mason School of Business at William & Mary. Anthony collaborates with alumni, parents and friends of the institution to align their philanthropic passions with the university’s strategic priorities, ensuring critical initiatives receive the necessary funding. He has been an integral part of the William & Mary community, dedicating his efforts to fostering a culture of philanthropy and support. Anthony resides in Williamsburg with his wife, Jacqueline. He holds two degrees from Marquette University, where he received a Jesuit education that has deeply influenced his professional and personal philosophy.
Anthony says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…the impact made by the generosity of the philanthropist I’ve been lucky enough to work with. My next big goal is…continuing to bring more professionals and resources to Hampton Roads to help our students, campus, and community. The best piece of advice I have ever received was…from my father. “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice. Something not many people know about me is that…I grew up with goats and showed them in the 4-H fair!
Ashley Barrineau
Ashley Barrineau
Manager, Princess Anne Library
City of Virginia Beach
Community-centric library service is one of Ashley Barrineau’s passions as manager of the Princess Anne Area Library. She obtained a grant from the Virginia Beach Library Foundation to provide library customers a chance to try their hand at outdoor activities without the steep entry cost of the equipment. Now ghost hunting kits, tents, metal detectors and giant outdoor games can be checked out for free by Virginia residents. Princess Anne is the first library in the United States and possibly the northern hemisphere to circulate surfboards.
Ashley says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…my work changing the perception of libraries as just books and story times. From seed libraries to monthly board gaming marathons to memory cafés, puzzle and plant swaps, libraries are books and so much more. I want the community to see themselves reflected in our offerings and know we have a place for everyone. If you haven’t visited in awhile I know we will surprise you. My next big goal is… growing my coaching role. Often as a woman in a management or executive position it can feel like success in our career equals the expense of one’s family. I want to help other women keep those limiting narratives out and see their value as both a mother and successful career woman. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…know your worth and value, remember you deserve to be where you are and believe in yourself to get where you want to be. Or as my mom says “Shoot for the moon, even if you miss you land among the stars.” Something not many people know about me is that…one of my favorite places I’ve visited is Interlaken, Switzerland, where I enjoyed white water rafting on the Lütschine river.
Barbara Benesh
Barbara Benesh
Founder
B. Grace Design
Barbara Benesh is the founder and a leading figure at B. Grace Design, a firm known for its innovative approach to architecture and design with a focus on sustainability, health, and wellness. She is recognized as an architect, designer, watercolorist, and wellness advocate. Her expertise spans over a decade and includes work in both the United States and internationally. Barbara’s dedication to creating spaces that enhance well-being and support environmental responsibility is evident through her work and the principles that guide B. Grace Design.
Barbara says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…supporting women and mothers in architecture through our innovative firm structure, and enhancing the quality of life for our workforce and clients through our projects and processes. My next big goal is…to help position Coastal Virginia as a hub of health and wellness through our built environment, policies, and infrastructure, supporting strong workforce retention and attraction, and improving quality of life and well-being. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…“If you’re not getting a seat at the table, go make your own.” Something not many people know about me is that…I run an Instagram account for my King Charles Cavalier, Elsie, capturing her daily adventures and building a community around her spunky and playful personality.
Leila Bradley
Leila Bradley
Vice President, Exchange Officer
Towne 1031 Exchange, LLC
TowneBank
Leila Bradley, is a graduate of Old Dominion University with a B.S. in Occupational and Technical Studies. She has worked for TowneBank for 14 years and has been with Towne 1031 Exchange for eight years. Leila earned the Certified Exchange Specialist (CES®) designation from the Federation of Exchange Accommodators in 2023. She is a graduate of the TowneBank LEAD Associate Program and LEAD Hampton Roads.
Bradley volunteered for CHKD from 2011 – 2019 and was a member of the Virginia Beach Jaycees from 2018 – 2020. She joined of the VBSPCA board of directors in 2018 and served as board chair from 2022 - 2023. Additionally, she volunteers for the United Way and the TowneBank Foundation.
Leila says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…the service I have provided to my community through my work at TowneBank and through my time on the board of the Virginia Beach SPCA and as a volunteer for CHKD and the United Way. My next big goal is…to continue to grow Towne 1031 Exchange and become a mentor to future generations. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…from Michelle Obama: “When you’ve worked hard, and done well, and walked through that doorway of opportunity, you do not slam it shut behind you.” Something not many people know about me is that…
I am an avid reader, reading over 50 books per year.
Ashley Brown
Ashley Brown
Founder & Owner
Guided Confident Careers
Ashley Brown graduated from Old Dominion University and has over 10 years of experience professionally helping people get hired. Her passion for developing others to be better business professionals led her to founding Guided Confident Careers. She offers individuals in person and online guidance with resume writing, career coaching and further professional development. Ashley is actively involved in the Hampton Roads community donating her career coaching services to organizations including ODU WIN, The Jaycees, Norfolk-Virginia Beach Junior League and The Bold Babe Society.
Ashley says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…my time assisting the U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF) community, including, Naval Special Warfare in Hampton Roads with their career transition out of active duty into their next career. This transition can be a very challenging and vulnerable time in their lives as well as their families. I’m in awe that they let me in their tight circle, look to me for advice and trust me with their career decisions. My next big goal is…completing a 3.3. mile open water charity swim for The Honor Foundation’s Swim for SOF in Coronado, CA this September! The best piece of advice I have ever received is…take care of your people and your people will take care of you. I learned this in my first career out of college at a young age and it’s stuck with me in how I operate in business every day. It’s important to invest in the people you work with. Something not many people know about me is that…I’ve always wanted to be a business owner. In my high school business class, I created a business plan to open a coffee shop one day!
Seth Caddell
Seth Caddell
Co-owner
Coastal Fermentory
Seth Caddell is trying to redefine how businesses give back to their community. Seth has helped establish and lead the effort for the brewerie’s weekly “Drink Beer and Do Good” events that have benefitted over 70 different local non-profits in the first three years of Coastal’s existence. Under Seth’s leadership Coastal Fermentory has built a reputation for quality, and as an industry leader in charitable partnerships.
Seth says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…The massive amount of positive impact we’ve been able to have via countless partnerships with non-profits making a real difference in our community. Building a business from scratch is one thing, but utilizing that business to make an impact is definitely my proudest accomplishment. My next big goal is… getting our second taproom up and running this fall. Coastal is currently working towards opening our second taproom at the intersection of Bland and Jefferson in Newport News. A second location in less than 4 years is a massive goal and has been a part of our plan from the start. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…success isn’t success if it doesn’t make the world a better place. This advice has shaped the way I lead and where I invest my time. Something not many people know about me is that…I’ve only been in the business world for the last three years, before that I was a full time minister at a local church.
Elizabeth Chapman
Elizabeth Chapman
Partner
Williams Mullen
Elizabeth Chapman’s practice focuses on commercial and multifamily real estate and finance. She represents national, regional and local clients in the acquisition, financing, leasing and disposition of commercial property, including multifamily, office, industrial, retail and mixed-use developments. Elizabeth frequently assists clients with the financing of real property using conventional financing and project finance, and has significant developer representation experience with low-income housing tax credit transactions.
Elizabeth says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…being involved in the affordable housing industry, representing developers in affordable housing and community development transactions, including the transformation of the St. Paul’s/Tidewater Gardens area, which is creating a vibrant, mixed-income community in Norfolk. My next big goal is…I am the president-elect for the Coastal Virginia chapter of CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women). One of my goals for 2025 is to continue to grow our chapter and advance the CREW mission—to accelerate success for all women in the global commercial real estate industry. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…build professional relationships as you would friendships—by showing genuine interest in other people. The value and opportunities that come from authentic professional relationships will define your career. Something not many people know about me is that…my husband and I have three dogs—a maltepoo who “works” as a therapy dog at Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital and two poorly trained but very lovable labradors.
Sydney Covey
Sydney Covey
Senior Manager
STRUCTR
Sydney Covey applies her sustainability and business acumen to craft innovative solutions that align with clients’ sustainability objectives. With a passion for environmental stewardship, Sydney has helped certify over 3 million square feet of sustainable space. Her portfolio includes notable projects like the LEED Platinum and Living Building Challenge-certified Brock Environmental Center and the Elizabeth River Project’s Ryan Resilience Lab. Recognized in 2022 as GreenBiz Group’s 30 Under 30, Sydney is a leader in Virginia’s sustainability community, serving on the U.S. Green Building Council Virginia’s Market Leadership Advisory Board and as Vice President of the Chesapeake Bay Governor’s School for Marine and Environmental Sciences Education Foundation. Sydney shares her expertise as a guest lecturer at several universities, including Virginia Wesleyan, Old Dominion, Norfolk State, Virginia Tech, the University of Richmond and Willam and Mary.
Sydney says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…my impact in Virginia through sustainable construction. Buildings shape our lives for generations, motivating my career choice. My portfolio includes 21-story offices, education centers, hospitals, and food banks, reflecting my contribution to a sustainable built environment and future. My next big goal is…to achieve 5 million square feet of sustainably certified building space in Virginia. With over 3 million square feet of sustainable projects in my portfolio that are actively in pursuit of certification, I am on my way! The best piece of advice I have ever received is “Stop and breathe, don’t stop and leave.” I received this advice virtually from Sydney Cummings. While she offered this advice during my online workout, it resonated with me far beyond my workout. Life, work, or situations can be overwhelming. It’s crucial to pause, breathe, regroup, but never quit. Something not many people know about me is that…I have never been out of the country! While I have a few places on my list including Peru and Rome, I especially want to go to Sydney, Australia because everyone always asks if I have been when I say my name is spelled like Sydney, Australia.
Cedricka Dalton
Cedricka Dalton
Development Engineer Technical Lead
Strategic Systems Programs
Cedricka Dalton is currently a development engineer technical lead for the Strategic Navigation Subsystem of the Trident Missile System Life Extension Program. Currently, she serves on the board of directors for the Access College Foundation. The Virginian Pilot interviewed her for an expert column on the topic of “How Education as a Benefit Can Improve Employee Retention.” The Virginian-Pilot newspaper’s Inside Business recognized her as one of the Top 40 under 40 for Outstanding Business Professionals and awarded her the Women in Business Award.
Cedricka says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…being considered a subject matter expert in combat systems communications. The recognition signifies the depth of my dedication to mastering my field. It’s a testament to the countless hours of study, practical application, and continuous learning. My next big goal is…to obtain my Ph.D. in Engineering Management and Systems Engineering. Alongside my academic pursuits, I’m dedicated to focusing on my small business, MiGirl Helps, LLC, which provides local minority students mentoring, scholarship, and tutoring services. This dual commitment reflects my passion for both academic excellence and entrepreneurial success, positioning me to make significant contributions to both my industry and my community. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…“Dates on calendars are closer than they appear.” Time is the one resource that you can never get back, making it incredibly valuable. This wisdom has guided me to prioritize my goals, focus on what truly matters, and make the most of every moment. By being mindful of how I spend my time, I ensure that my efforts are aligned with my aspirations and that I live a life of purpose and productivity. Something not many people know about me is that… I have never learned to ride a bike nor roller skate. Despite my accomplishments and skills, these childhood activities slipped through the cracks for me.
Kellyn Davis
Kellyn Davis
Project Manager
Atlantic Office Technologies
Kellyn Davis has been a Project Manager at Atlantic Office Technologies for almost six years. Prior to her current position, she worked as a supplemental instructor for developmental math at TCC for seven years. She sits on six boards and committees including the Special Olympics Young Professionals Board, the Virginia Beach JayCees, HRACRE, VSHE and HRNG and is president of her HOA. She enjoys taking her dog to the park (and to work with her), riding her motorcycle, and running the first half of marathons.
Kellyn says: So far in my career, I am most proud of the extensive network I’ve built through networking and volunteering. My journey at AOT has allowed me to give back to the community and foster meaningful relationships. I particularly enjoy connecting individuals who can benefit from knowing one another. My next big goal is…completing my Project Management Professional certification to expand my skill set and take on a leadership role that allows me to drive impactful projects and inspire others. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…to live for the 90-year-old you. When I’m 90 I’d hate to look back and say “I wish I had done x. y, or z.” Something not many people know about me is that…I swam in the Amazon with
Pink Dolphins and (technically) Piranhas.
Jennifer Goff, Ph.D.
Jennifer Goff, Ph.D.
Executive Director
REACH, Inc.
Jennifer Goff, Ph.D. is executive director of Reading Enriches All Children (REACH), Inc. With the organization since 2017, she drives efforts to overcome literacy barriers in Coastal Virginia. Under her leadership, REACH has quadrupled resource distribution and tripled both the operating budget and staff. She launched The Big Free Bookstore, providing free, high-quality books. Her visionary leadership has earned REACH the Giving Back Award from Coastal Virginia Magazine, the Human Rights Award from Virginia Beach, and Best Independent Bookstore. She was named Top 40 Under 40 and received the Darden Alumni Fellowship Award.
Jennifer says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…having created and sustained the only free bookstore in the U.S., which has served thousands of families in Coastal Virigina by providing brand-new and gently used books, school supplies, and in-store programs at no cost. My next big goal is…to become the regional (and future national) leader in book distribution, ensuring every child in the U.S. has access to free, high-quality books and educational resources to promote literacy and lifelong learning. The best piece of advice I have ever received is… “Be the change.” Use your voice and influence to challenge unfair systems and ensure everyone has equal access to resources and opportunities. Encourage those around you to get involved in important social issues and work together to create positive change in your community and beyond. Something not many people know about me is that…I foster cats with Billy the Kidden Rescue. I’ve helped dozens of animals find their forever homes, many of which I bottle-fed and cared for personally.
Sidney “Sid” Hall
Sidney “Sid” Hall
Leader
Historic Hospitality Group
Sidney Hall is the president and owner of Historic Hospitality Group, which includes Riverwalk Restaurant, Water Street Grille, and Waypoint Seafood & Grill in Williamsburg and Yorktown. With a focus on exceptional service and delectable food, Sid has built a reputation for creating memorable dining experiences. His hands-on approach and dedication to excellence ensure that each guest enjoys top-notch hospitality and cuisine. Under Sid’s leadership, Historic Hospitality Group remains a benchmark for quality and service in the restaurant industry.
Sid says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…employing over 150 people within Historic Hospitality Group. My next big goal is…primarily centered around community engagement and optimization. We aim to create meaningful partnerships with local organizations, schools, and businesses to support community initiatives and contribute to local causes. Additionally, we plan to optimize our operations, specifically around buying and guest experience. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…”Hero today, zero tomorrow.” It serves as a powerful reminder that we must rise each day and give our best, as yesterday’s achievements are behind us and the future is uncertain. Something not many people know about me is that…few people know that I spent five years coaching the Jamestown High School wrestling team.
Nefertiti Holas
Nefertiti Holas
Entrepreneur, Broker and Accountant
Ebony Qing Real Estate | ChaNJe Money Matters
Nefertiti Holas, a Grenadian entrepreneur and single mother, holds dual Masters in Accounting and Business Management. She founded ChaNJe Money Matters and has earned accolades such as “ODUAA 40 under 40” and “CoVa Best Of Business Top Female CEO.” With over 20 years in finance, she is honored as ‘Business Person of the Year’, reflecting her leadership, innovation, and mentorship in the industry. Her passion for enhancing community through financial literacy and education sets her apart as a pioneering force.
Nefertiti says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…the company I have built; ChaNJe Money Matters Co. I started my business in my laundry room and today it is locally recognized for CoVa Best Tax Firm and Best Business Accounting Firm. We have helped over 400 clients and business owners take control of their finances by implementing accounting systems and tax strategies to reduce liabilities. My next big goal is…the successful launch of The Game of ChaNJe this year; a board game I developed that teaches, ages nine and up, topics of financial literacy including banking, budgeting, taxes, investing, retirement and personal finance. The best piece of advice I have ever received was…from a past supervisor on accepting criticism. He said, “Receive it in the spirit it was given.” Meaning don’t react with your immediate emotions, disregard the delivery and assess the message. Accepting criticism and taking accountability with grace builds your integrity among others. Something not many people know about me is…chemistry was one of my favorite subjects in college and I was exceptionally good with chemistry experiments and formulas. As mathematical as my mind is, I do have a very creative side and enjoy drawing, painting and crafts.
Arthur Kelly
Arthur Kelly
Program Specialist
Access College Foundation
Arthur Kelly is a communications professional and advisor with over 13 years of experience at Access College Foundation. He has served as the DEI Taskforce chair for the past four years and is known for his exceptional motivational speaking skills at school assemblies, community events, and sports camps such as Paul Webb Basketball Camp and Fellowship of Christian Athletes summer camp. Arthur is also actively involved in various organizations, holding positions such as Board President of Chesapeake Arts Alive!, member of the Old Dominion University Alumni Board of Directors, member of the City of Chesapeake Human Services Advisory Board, and coach for the UNCF Social Justice Scholars and K-12 Fellows program.
Arthur says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…the deep connections I have formed with students and other individuals I have had the privilege to support over my career. Building these relationships and making a positive impact on their lives has been a source of immense satisfaction for me. My next big goal is…to expand my reach and help even more Individuals unlock their full potential through my coaching consulting firm, The Coach Kelly Method. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…to focus on my own growth and progress and avoid comparing myself to others, as it only diminishes my own joy and contentment. “Comparison is the thief of all joy.” Something not many people know about me is that…I have been featured in several local and national commercials and print ads for large corporations such as Casey Automotive, Busch Gardens, Water Country USA, Deitz & Watson, Main Street Homes, and others.
Alexis Majied
Alexis Majied
Chief Communications Officer
Hampton Roads Transit
In her role as Chief Communications Officer for Hampton Roads Transit, Alexis Majied leads all marketing, communications, outreach, transit advertising and business development efforts to engage customers and inspire regional mobility and connectivity through transit. Additionally, she has played a critical role in transit advocacy efforts, encouraging increased support of public transportation by business, community and elected leaders. Passionate about empowering girls and women, Alexis proudly serves on the Board for Girls on the Run Hampton Roads and as a Girl Scouts troop leader.
Alexis says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…my current role as Chief Communications Officer. It has always been a goal of mine and I have worked extremely hard to get here. But now that I am here, I look forward to using this opportunity to make a positive impact on our community. I would like to thank my boss, HRT’s President and CEO, William Harrell, for allowing me the opportunity to serve in my dream job. It has been such an honor to lead alongside such an experienced and respected public servant. My next big goal is…to continue building and cultivating a strong, talented team that plans and executes effective marketing and communications campaigns that are successful in getting more people to try transit. While transit may not work for everyone, we can all find ways incorporate bus, light rail or ferry into a portion of our trips to work, school, shopping or entertainment. Or, at the very least, we can start by carpooling. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…“Don’t let success go to your head and don’t let failure get to your heart.” Something not many people know about me is that…I enjoy watching sitcoms from just about every decade. I Love Lucy, Golden Girls and A Different World are just a few of my favorites.
William Palmer
William Palmer
Associate Attorney
Kaufman & Canoles
William Palmer is an associate at Kaufman & Canoles, P.C. and a member of the firm’s Labor & Employment practice group and Sports and Entertainment Industry team. His practice focuses on employment litigation and counseling on a wide variety of employment matters. He also applies his litigation and advising experience to the sports and entertainment industries where he is regularly engaged to speak and advise on the latest developments in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) legislation, compliance with NCAA regulations, and contract review and negotiations.
William says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…how far I’ve come. I have been a part of a number of firsts: I am the first person in my family to have an advanced degree; I was the first African-American Editor-in-Chief of the Regent University Law Review; and after passing the bar,
I became a first generation lawyer. Along the way, I have been blessed with a supportive community of family and friends who have encouraged me
to pursue my goals despite the odds. My next big goal is…to become a partner at my law firm, an established Employment litigator, and become one of the go-to sports and entertainment attorneys in Hampton Roads. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…“It is not about where
or how you start, it is about how you finish.” Something not many people know about me is that… if I did not become a lawyer, I probably would have pursued music. While I grew up in a sports household and played most sports, I was primarily a band kid, and I was briefly a jazz
studies/saxophone performance major in college.
Lynda Phillips
Lynda Phillips
Vice President, Security Loss
Prevention Specialist
Old Point National Bank
Lynda Phillips plays a vital role in safeguarding Old Point’s customers assets and minimizing loss due to theft, fraud and financial risk.
With a focus on identifying and mitigating security risk, Lynda has established herself as a trusted leader in the fraud and security banking industry. She is deeply passionate about promoting financial literacy and combating elder financial exploitation. Her advocacy for these important causes has inspired positive change and empowered individuals to make informed financial decisions.
Lynda says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…graduating from the Virginia Bankers Association School of Bank Management, class of 2023. In addition to gaining valuable financial management experience and knowledge to take my career to the next level, I was also elected class Vice-President where I had the privilege of assisting in class decision making. I also had the huge honor of being named the sole 2023 honoree of the Faircloth Family Award of Excellence. My next big goal is…to continue establishing myself as a trusted financial literacy voice in Hampton Roads. This includes writing articles, giving presentations, or participating in panels and conferences to share my knowledge. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…my mother always said to me “I hope you dance.” This was a reference to Lee Ann Womack’s song that encourages people to live with wonder, faith, and courage and to dance instead of sitting out. I try to embrace this philosophy every day. Something not many people know about me is I have been an employee of Old Point National Bank for twenty years—that’s over half of my life!
Melissa Ramsey
Melissa Ramsey
Director of Community Relations
Rivers Casino Portsmouth
Melissa Ramsey leads the charge on the casino’s service to the community and dedicates her time to building lasting partnerships. Melissa serves on the board of the YWCA of South Hampton Roads and as the President of GenZoo, the Young Professionals Board of the Virginia Zoo. She also serves on the Executive Committee of the Portsmouth Partnership. She is a current class member of LEAD 757’s 2024 cohort and is a 2023 Lefcoe Alumni.
Melissa says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…building community within and outside of Rivers. Watching the synergy that comes out of having a dedicated team and workplace behind me serving the community is exceptionally gratifying. My next big goal is…to increase my community impact through community connections, volunteer hours, and by coming up with creative ways to engage with changemakers in Hampton Roads. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…to never lose my sense of wonder. My parents always raised me to be imaginative, creative, and open-minded. It has helped me to value people, to value nature, and to value the seemingly small things in life that mean the most. Something not many people know about me is…I’m an introvert by nature. I was painfully shy growing up, and it wasn’t until I was out of college that I started to hone my social skills.
Angela Reason
Angela Reason
Clerk of Court
City of Newport News
Angela Reason is the first elected female and African American Clerk of Court in Newport News. She is committed to community and focuses on modernizing the Clerk’s Office through the enhancement of technology and improvement of customer relations. She is the creator of “Conversations with the Clerk,” a series of conversations focused on educating the public regarding legislation that impacts the community through the Court and different services the Clerk’s Office renders. She is known as the “soccer mom”; balancing family, career, community and politics.
Angela says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…the fact that I am extremely fortunate to have been graced with uncommon favor in my professional career. While I feel that I have not begun to scratch the service of who I was called to be, I am not merely proud, but more so humbled and honored that the citizens of Newport News elected me to serve the city that I know and love. My next big goal is…to successfully lead my eldest daughter in graduating from high school and assisting her in accomplishing her academic and professional goals. The best piece of advice I have ever received is… “Hard work beats lazy talent, any day!” Something not many people know about me is …I have a passion for reading and history.
Amanda Running
Amanda Running
Architect and Principal
GuernseyTingle
In addition to her role at GuernseyTingle, Amanda Running is the mother of three little ones. She has a passion for her family, her home, her work, and her community. This passion for others informed her studies and is the driving force behind her work with GuernseyTingle in public safety design. She is primarily focused on fire station design which combines a sense of home with a commercially functioning building to bring family and community together in a place that promotes health and healing.
Amanda says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…the relationships that I have been able to build to both promote our firm’s work and also to support our local community through the work that I do. My next big goal is… grow, inspire, and support the younger staff in our firm to continue our public safety design work. I love the work that I do and the different public safety departments that I have the opportunity to work with. In order to continue to increase our work and relationships in that community, I know that I need a strong team alongside me. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…that in this line of work, you will never go home at the end of the day with everything “done.” As a goal-oriented person, the fluidity of “done” in a profession where my projects often take many years to go from inception to completion, is something that took me a long time to understand. Being able to balance work and family life requires being intentional about setting the pencil down and not letting questions that remain unresolved overpower the family time and down time. Something not many people know about me is…that I really dislike running. I recently accomplished a goal of mine to complete the six world major marathons, and have already signed up to run the NYC Marathon again this fall. Despite this (and my ironic last name), I strongly dislike running. What I do enjoy is reaching a concrete goal, pushing myself, having a stronger individual control over that work and goal, and the mental and stress relief that running offers.
Justin Saunders
Justin Saunders
Vice President
Hampton Roads Chamber
Justin Saunders supports the region by setting the conditions for businesses to succeed. As Vice President of Membership and Strategic Growth, he is proud to have the largest Chamber of Commerce in the Commonwealth of Virginia which lands at the top 1% of Chambers across the nation. Justin serves on multiple boards, committees, councils and appointments recognized both regionally and nationally. A few include, Board of Directors for the Better Business Bureau, Advisory Council for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, Honorary Commander of the 63rd Intelligence Squadron – United States Air Force and LEAD757 graduate.
Justin says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…helping businesses become the most successful version of themselves. I do so by providing education, resources, tools, and advocacy necessary for businesses to have a fighting chance at accomplishing their goals and achieving ultimate success. My next big goal is…to successfully make the Hampton Roads Chamber the largest and most influential of its kind in the nation. The best piece of advice I have ever received is… “We don’t need a title to lead. We just need to care. People would rather follow a leader with a heart than a leader with a title” – Craig Groeschel Something not many people know about me is…
In the 5th grade, I purchased $3 bags of Dum Dum Pops and sold
individual lollipops to my classmates. I made a profit of $15 per bag, at
8-10 bags per week. Although my principle was extremely impressed and told me I had a future in business, they also informed me that I could no longer operate on school property. That is where my journey began.
Kevin Welsh
Kevin Welsh
Owner
Budget Blinds
Kevin Welsh is a Philadelphia native turned Virginian, with more than half of his life spent in the State for Lovers. Graduating from James Madison University (09) with a BS in Kinesiology and a minor in Business, he has been all over the state. He has spent 11 years in the Window Coverings Industry and seven of those years co-owning eight Budget Blinds franchise territories covering all of Hampton Roads. Kevin is married to his phenomenal wife Lynn, and has two growing children, Conor and Nora.
Kevin says: So far in my career, I am most proud of…the number of people I have helped empower. I believe in teamwork and I have learned throughout my life that to have a successful team, everyone needs to feel empowered to succeed. Owning and operating Budget Blinds has allowed me to do this for our employees, and is now creating opportunities for me to do so in the community. My next big goal is…to focus in on the fatherhood chapter of my life and be the best that I can for my family. At Budget Blinds and in my personal life we/I have expansion plans and goals, but what I know for certain is that those goals need to align with being the best husband, father and family member I can be otherwise none of it is worth it. The best piece of advice I have ever received is…“Don’t ever assume someone else has the same currency or values currency the same way you do in life”. Time is our most valuable resource. Something not many people know about me is…that my dream job coming out of high school and going into college was to become a Gym Teacher.
