Rev. Cory Newell
36, Owner/Lead Communicator for Rev. Cory Newell and Associates, Wedding Officiants and Commonwealth Exterminating Company, INC., Newport News
Business community involvement:
National Association of Property Managers, Hampton Roads Realtor Association, Virginia Peninsula Association of Realtors, International Live Events Association, Virginia Pest Management Association
Civic contributions:
Waterview Civic League President, Rotary Club of Newport News, Hampton Roads Pride, WHRO-PBS Affiliate On Air Talent and Volunteer, Bon Secours Chaplain, Veterans Hospital Chaplain
Something that sets you apart from the crowd?
Being passionate and loving what I do while caring for others is what makes me stand apart from others. I bring a balance of professionalism, personality and fun in everything I do.
What keeps you motivated?
I enjoy Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations Podcast, and the movie The Greatest Showman has inspired me to create, innovate and change. Constantly reading, learning, observing and trying to be as present as possible.
Tell us about a recent accomplishment that you’re proud of.
Becoming Virginia’s No. 1 wedding officiant and the No. 2 wedding vendor in any category in Virginia. Currently I am learning to provide spiritual care in a hospital setting and have met many personal goals. Also, I’ve earned a commission in the United States Air Force.
What’s a challenge you’ve had to overcome to find success?
Honestly, I’ve always been the youngest in the room. There was no shortcut to overcome that except to be the best. Another is marketing on no budget. This caused me to make personal connections and to become an expert networker, both of which helped build my brand and reputation.
Most important aspect you look for in a workplace?
Curate a team environment with high standards of efficiency and systems.
What would you be doing if you weren’t in your current position?
I likely would be suffocating in a church or corporate position.
What new idea or development are you most excited about in Coastal Virginia right now?
I’m so happy that the I-64 is wider on the Peninsula. I’m excited to see the changes in Downtown Norfolk and Virginia Beach Oceanfront. I like the potential of Portsmouth’s efforts to redo their own waterfront.
What do you think is Coastal Virginia’s biggest challenge?
The largest challenges are the tunnels and traffic. The water is one of our best features but causes such a divide for regionalism. Another is the struggle of being a millennial in the workforce, often already a second-class individual simply because of age. Not everyone is created in equal in the eyes of corporate America!
Favorite place in Coastal Virginia to go on the weekends?
My go-to is Paradise Ocean Club at Fort Monroe in Hampton. I feel like I am on vacation every Sunday for about 4.5 hours. Another is Saude Creek Winery in Lanexa for a great glass of wine and beautiful view. All of our waterways and any access point is another.
From his nomination:
“A conundrum but focused, Cory sees things differently and articulates a language of love that changes the world. Cory loves Christ, the church, campus ministry, nonprofits, business organization, marketing, contract law, his family/friends and hiking. He tries real hard to love much, to share everything and to mobilize many. He wears many hats for several ministries, businesses and nonprofits including dishwasher, door greeter, teacher and leader.”
—Justin Wheaton, friend
