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The 2024 Leadership Exchange brought together 70 regional leaders for a 3 day exploration of this expanding region. Tampa was chosen because of its many similarities to Hampton Roads. From a thriving tourism economy, to an international airport that has doubled in size and a booming entrepreneurial ecosystem, Tampa is solidifying itself as one of the best places to live and work in the United States.

During the 2024 Leadership Exchange or LEX as the Chamber refers to it, attendees had the opportunity to hear from the regional leaders and change makers who have been instrumental in the city’s growth. From the former mayors of Tampa and St. Petersburg and how they collaborate across city lines to the economic development leaders attracting new businesses and those who are driving tourism, attendees had the chance to learn directly from those making an impact. They discussed sports, art and culture and the impact on tourism, learned about the programs Tampa has in place in regards to affordable housing, and had an airport dialogue between Tampa’s CEO and our very own, Mark Perryman from the Norfolk International Airport.

The goal of the annual LEX is to learn from a region that is currently prospering so that attendees (including 9 elected officials) can bring back information to put into action for Hampton Roads. This goal was surely met on this trip as leaders convened to discuss all that was learned and experienced that can be brought back and applied to Hampton Roads.

The Hampton Roads Chamber wants to thank all of the supporters, attendees, sponsors and advocates of these yearly trips. The support from the business community for these impactful exchanges is tremendous!

The post Learning & Leading in Tampa appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Mayor West specifically addressed concerns about the future of Greenbrier Mall, explaining that while there are many ideas and discussions about the future of the property, there are no firm plans at this time. However, the city has seen “significant infrastructure improvements” in that area, including the new Three Oaks Industrial Park on Volvo Parkway according to the mayor.

Local updates continued with announcements made about historic South Norfolk, which will soon see growth through the new municipal building and will consolidate many local offices and services, including the City Treasurer, Commissioner of Revenue, 2^nd Police precinct, and others. In addition, Mayor West shared that the Dr. Clarence V. Cuffee Community Center is coming to South Norfolk, which will provide not only a swimming pool, but family activities, therapeutic programs, and more.

Beyond the business success of the City, Mayor West congratulated the Chesapeake School System, both public and private, for its tremendous success in offering a balance of “college-prep, vocational, and career-focused education. Such educational success is central to how Chesapeake’s youth will write Chesapeake’s future story.” For local healthcare, it was shared that Chesapeake is welcoming the new Western Branch Community-based Outpatient Clinic, the Veteran’s Affairs Healthcare Center, as well as new mental health programs for the Chesapeake Regional Jail.

It was also stated that Chesapeake’s city parks and trail systems continue “to grow and prosper.”  There was the opening of Newton’s Neck Park and progress in the development of Blue Heron Landing Park. The city is also actively working on new trial plans “to connect and expand existing trails and new pathways” so “walkers of every speed and riders of every sort have a growing menu of options in Chesapeake.” The mayor also spoke on Chesapeake’s diverse history and spoke on the relocation of Cornland School as well as the groundbreaking of the Historical Village.

Mayor West concluded his speech by remarking on how far Chesapeake has come from its beginning in 1963 when South Norfolk and Norfolk County came together. He explained that Chesapeake is a city built on unity and the “willingness” to “find common ground, to work together, and to build a great City.”

The Hampton Roads Chamber would like to thank Mayor Rick West for sharing exciting future endeavors, business updates, and community accomplishments with our audience at this highly-anticipated Chesapeake State of the City.

Special thanks to all of our sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor: TowneBank
Member Spotlight Sponsor: Chesapeake Regional Healthcare
City Host Sponsor: Dollar Tree
Series Platinum Sponsors: ADP and Bon Secours
Building the Future Sponsor: The Franklin Johnston Group
Series Silver Sponsors: ABNB Federal Credit Union, BayPort Credit Union, Dominion Energy, GEICO, Hampton Roads Workforce Council, Langley Federal Credit Union, Sentara Health Plans, Verizon
Host Sponsor: Chesapeake Conference Center
Decor Sponsor: Premier Events of Virginia Inc.
Series Media Sponsors: WTKR News 3 and Two Twelve Media

The post Chesapeake State of the City Celebrations appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Both Mayor Dyer and City Manager Duhaney spoke about the power of collaboration. City Manager Patrick Duhaney shared appreciation for Virginia Beach City Council and city staff.  Mayor Dyer continued, “Together with my 10 colleagues, each representing unique districts across our great city, our Focused Action Plan covers three overarching key focus areas – Govern, Envision, and Invigorate.”

Virginia Beach Emergency Management and Public Safety teams were highlighted for their efforts after the EF-3 tornado touched down in the Great Neck area on April 30, 2023. Public safety acknowledgements continued with the announcement of the 50th anniversary of the Virginia Beach Emergency Medical Services’ Emergency Coronary Care Program. Not only are they the only volunteer pre-hospital advanced life support team in the nation, but also the first cardiac tech program in Virginia.

Praises continued for the Virginia Beach Fire Department as 56 new graduates joined the department and over 40,000 service calls were responded to. Virginia Beach police were highlighted as Mayor Dyer proudly reported that violent and property crimes as well as motor vehicle larceny were down compared to 2022.

The City Manager went on to share that the 5/31 Memorial Commission has been working on a memorial design that will be constructed in honor of those whose lives were lost on that tragic day. “When completed, this memorial will be a thoughtful and lovely place on our municipal campus where everyone can reflect and remember,” shared City Manager Duhaney.

The Mayor and City Manager gave special thanks to community and city leaders like Ken Stolle, who just retired as Sheriff after a long and faithful career dedicated to the city, and Rocky Holcomb, who stepped down from City Council to take the position as the new Sheriff of Virginia Beach. The Mayor also acknowledged the recent passing of two other significant community leaders, Dr. Clarence Holland and Reverend Dr. Pat Robertson.

The recent success of the city, as supported by its dedicated leaders was shown through its impressive nationwide rankings for 2023. It was shared that Virginia Beach was listed as the third safest large city, the fourth best city for veterans and their families, the fifth best large city for newlyweds, and one of the Top 100 places to live, along with many other impressive rankings involving quality of life, city services, and other local benefits.

The Mayor and City Manager then continued with how the city leaders could “envision” the future of the city. It was shared that Virginia Beach’s future would be secured by projects like flood protection initiatives, multiple significant construction projects, and increasing educational opportunities. City Manager Duhaney explained that they recognize and understand the need and great importance of having an educated workforce prepared for the growth of new jobs, such as those in the data science industry. This goal is supported by partnerships with Virginia Wesleyan University and Old Dominion University.

There was also the exciting announcement of the new Transatlantic Subsea Cables that would connect directly with the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, providing incredible improvements to internet connectivity that will further push the City toward having the best infrastructure and economic opportunity available.

City Manager Duhaney and Mayor Dyer further illustrated the explosive economic growth in the Virginia Beach business community through the expansion of existing businesses in addition to the introduction of “new ventures” to the city. For example, Virginia Beach native companies such as DOMA Technologies, Acoustical Sheetmetal Company, and DroneUP have all seen incredible growth in the past year, as have national and international companies like ThayerMahan, Correll Group, Chorus Intelligence, and KPMG. Virginia Beach has also welcomed new companies to the region, such as LEGO, ZIM American Integrated Shipping Services, and Amazon.

Mayor Dyer and City Manager Duhaney then shared the many ways that Virginia Beach is moving to invigorate its community, pursuing “a clean, inspiring, and vibrant environment where all residents and guests feel safe and where they have access to the services and amenities that provide a high quality of life.” In support of this ambitious goal, the City has seen great success in its tourism industry, with a $300 million increase from 2022, and the funding of more than 32,000 jobs.

In the field of education, Mayor Dyer and City Manager Duhaney explained how local schools and businesses are contributing to the health and success of the City. Virginia Beach schools have reached record-high levels of on-time graduation, along with other incredible awards and milestones. Other organizations like the Virginia Aquarium and Newport News Shipbuilding have also contributed to the educational opportunities of Virginia Beach’s youth. Major Dyer expressed particular excitement for the H.O.P.E. Initiative, explaining that he wanted Virginia Beach “to harness that energy and generosity that runs through our city and help fill the need for purposeful connections and work together as one.” In connection with this initiative, Mayor Dyer recognized Green Run High School football coach, Cadillac Harris for his hard work in “helping our youth excel.”

City Manager Duhaney then congratulated the Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Department for being the 2023 National Gold Medal Award winner for “Excellence in Parks and Recreation Management” by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. In this competitive national competition, Virginia Beach was praised for its many “unique initiatives” such as the Woodstock Park Skate Park, Parks After Dark, and the Bow Creek Stormwater Park.

The Mayor and City Manager concluded the Virginia Beach State of the City by expressing hope for the future while pointing out what the city needs in order to continue its recent progress, like the need for a younger generation of employees and a more competitive job market. As a symbol of this ambitious path forward, the Mayor and City Manager shared the new project called the Virginia Beach Trail which will eventually provide “12 miles of shared-use path” that “will cross the full width of the City of Virginia Beach,” further connecting the community and symbolizing the City’s path toward a great future.

The Hampton Roads Chamber would like to thank Mayor Bobby Dyer and City Manager Patrick Duhaney for sharing community accomplishments, business updates, and exciting future endeavors with our audience.

A major thank you to our event sponsors:
Series Presenting Sponsor: TowneBank
Series Platinum Sponsors: ADP and Bon Secours
Building the Future Sponsor: The Franklin Johnston Group
Series Silver Sponsors: ABNB Federal Credit Union, BayPort Credit Union, Dominion Energy, GEICO, Hampton Roads Workforce Council, Langley Federal Credit Union, Sentara Health Plans, Verizon
Bronze Sponsors: Chartway Credit Union, Kitty Hawk Wind, Willcox & Savage, P.C.
Host Sponsor: Virginia Beach Convention Center
Decor Sponsor: Premier Events Inc.
Series Media Sponsors: WTKR News 3 and Two-Twelve Media

The post The Largest Virginia Beach State of the City appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Today at Norfolk State University (NSU), White House National Cyber Director Harry Coker, Jr. celebrated the Biden-Harris Administration’s collaboration and achievements with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Director Coker joined a roundtable discussion focused on helping more HBCUs unlock federal resources and encourage more students to find their way to the nearly 500,000 good-paying cyber jobs open in America.

While Black Americans comprise 12% of the workforce, they comprise only 8% of the technology workforce. Director Coker addressed this gap as an opportunity, noting that the only way we can defend the digital systems that lay the foundation for our modern way of life is to be sure that every American and people from every community have a pathway into a cyber-based career.

Director Coker’s remarks are available here.

In partnership with the White House Initiative on HBCUs, the U.S. Department of Education, the Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) Program, and the CAE Candidates National Center, the Office of the National Cyber Director held a discussion with 14 HBCUs interested in pursuing the highly sought National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) designation. Highlighting the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to removing barriers for all Americans to pursue economic opportunities, Director Coker encouraged HBCUs to seek the NCAE-C designation to strengthen cyber programs, unlock federal resources, and provide more career opportunities for HBCU students to fill the more than half a million, good paying cyber jobs available nationwide.

Since 2008, 17 HBCUs have been designated as CAEs in Cybersecurity.  In the first three years of the Biden-Harris Administration, seven HBCUs in Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, Virginia, and Washington, DC, received their NCAE-Cyber Defense designation, marking the most rapid expansion to date.

In 2009, NSU became one of the nation’s first HBCUs to earn CAE designation and has proven to be a model for regional cyber workforce ecosystems. Along with local partners, NSU created a collaborative effort with the Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center – Old Dominion University to establish and operate a CAE in Cybersecurity, emphasizing Cyber Modeling, Simulation, Analysis, and Experimentation.

Today’s roundtable included representatives from 14 HBCUs including Alcorn State University, Central State University, Coppin State University, Elizabeth City State University, Howard University, Kentucky State University, Lane College, Morgan State University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina A&T State University, South Carolina State University, Tuskegee University, University of Maryland at Eastern Shore and Virginia State University.

Director Coker met with students at NSU from various backgrounds – first-generation college students, veterans, and those pursuing social sciences majors – who are interested in cyber careers. He also visited a career fair featuring federal, state, non-profit, and private sector employers seeking to hire students in technical and non-technical fields.

While in Norfolk, Director Coker visited the Virginia Port Authority, where local business leaders from the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce and Black BRAND, the Black Chamber of Commerce for Virginia’s Hampton Roads and Dan River regions, gathered for an industry roundtable facilitated by Assistant National Cyber Director Seeyew Mo. The roundtable provided an opportunity for business and workforce leaders to share their challenges, opportunities, and innovative best practices to foster a robust cyber workforce.

Today, Director Coker announced the following new commitments from public and private sector partners, each devoted to strengthening the local and national cyber workforce:

Department of Labor (DOL)

DOL announced the availability of nearly $200 million in grants to continue to support public-private partnerships that expand, diversify, and strengthen Registered Apprenticeship in education, care, clean energy, information technology (IT), supply chain, and other in-demand industries. The funding opportunity includes $95 million of competitive grants through the second round of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Apprenticeship Building America Grant Program and $100 million in the second round of State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula Grants. The funding opportunities announced continue the Department of Labor’s commitment to providing all of America’s workers with access to training and career preparation that lead to good jobs with family-sustaining wages. These grants serve as another avenue toward strengthening the nation’s workforce development infrastructure to connect people from all communities to the good jobs being created by President Biden’s Investing in America agenda. These funding opportunities are currently open, and the solicitations are available on grants.gov and apprenticeship.gov.

National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C) 

There are currently 444 institutions designated by the NSA as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (NCAE-C). The NCAE-C program was created in 1999, and in 2024, the National Security Agency (NSA) will be furthering its commitment to high-quality cybersecurity education by increasing the number of Minority-Serving Institutions designated as NCAE-Cs by 10, including at least one HBCU.

National Science Foundation (NSF)

The NSF’s Bridge to Cyber program is looking to add eight institutions to connect an estimated 500 individuals with no background in cybersecurity, including those from populations historically marginalized in tech/cyber, the opportunities to earn advanced degrees in cybersecurity. In addition, NSF’s Scholarship For Service (SFS) office plans to add at least six-eight institutions this year. The SFS program encourages HBCUs to reach out for applications or to seek an SFS institution as a mentor.

BCR Cyber

BCR Cyber, a leading provider of cybersecurity training, testing, certification, and job placement services, has trained, certified, and placed over 2,000 entry-level information technology (IT)/cyber workers with state, local, and industry partners using funding from the Maryland Department of Labor’s Employment Advanced Right Now (EARN) grant program. Over the next two years, BCR Cyber commits to train and place an additional 3,000 individuals. BCR also aims to replicate the Maryland EARN model and expand nationally, focusing its initial expansion efforts on Virginia.

Black Cybersecurity Association (BCA)

The Black Cybersecurity Association (BCA), a non-profit organization founded by an HBCU graduate dedicated to facilitating underrepresented minority entry into the U.S. cybersecurity field through training, professional development, and networking, commits to securing gainful employment for 300 African American citizens in calendar year 2024. BCA strives to increase diversity in cybersecurity and works with multiple HBCUs, including Howard University and Morgan State University, as a part of their education and workforce development efforts. BCA plans to expand to additional HBCUs, including schools in Virginia.

Minority Technology Foundation

The Minority Technology Foundation pledges its continued dedication to promoting cybersecurity education and training initiatives for the well-being and future success of underserved communities. The Minority Technology Foundation is committed to providing accessible and comprehensive cyber education to 500+ youth and young adults over the next 24 months with an understanding of cybersecurity principles that go beyond theoretical knowledge, ensuring that each program participant may acquire practical, hands-on experience in cybersecurity tools, tactics and techniques, best practices, and related career opportunities available to them.

VetSec

VetSec, a non-profit that provides low and no-cost training, education, employment, and transition assistance to active-duty, reservists, Veterans, and members of the National Guard seeking cyber careers, is committed to providing educational pathways to meaningful employment to over 10,000 people by the end of 2025, and to 25,000 by 2028. In addition to the direct commitment, VetSec provides a lifelong community for military Veterans in information technology (IT) and cyber. It  is dedicated to supporting its members throughout their careers and life journeys.

Today, ONCD provided an update on public and private sector programs committed to helping HBCUs and their students:

U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)

The Connected Minority Communities Pilot Program under NTIA has awarded grants to 43 HBCUs totaling more than $130 million. These awards help HBCUs provide high-speed Internet service throughout their campuses, including in many historical buildings that have been unserved or underserved, as well as to collaborate with neighboring communities.

U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)

In 2023, DOL awarded approximately $108 million through grants and contracts to expand Registered Apprenticeships in high-growth and in-demand industries, including information technology (IT) and cyber, that benefit underrepresented populations, including the Black community.

National Science Foundation (NSF)

Since 2023, NSF has provided more than $2.3 million in funding through its CyberCorps Scholarship For Service (SFS) program. It provides scholarships for up to three years of support for cybersecurity undergraduate and graduate education for students who intend to serve in the U.S. government after graduation. In the past three years, NSF has added two more HBCUs to its SFS program.

IBM

Since announcing IBM’s HBCU partnerships to establish virtual Cybersecurity Leadership Centers to address the cybersecurity talent shortage, Norfolk State University (NSU) faculty and students have gained access to a wide range of coursework lectures, immersive training experiences, certifications, and other programming at no cost. This year, IBM enhanced the NSU Cybersecurity Portal to access critical, ongoing cybersecurity education, including introductory, academic, and IBM client-based courses. Students and faculty across all 20 HBCUs convene for monthly webinars to share best practices and learn from each other. They also gain access to subject matter experts through the monthly IBM Security Expert Lecture Series.

The post READOUT: National Cyber Director Harry Coker, Jr. Celebrates Biden-⁠Harris Administration’s Partnership with HBCUs and Looks to Forge More Pathways for Their Students to Pursue Careers in Cybersecurity appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Formed from a 30-year partnership between the Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, the WiseChoice Healthcare Alliance is designed to help drive healthcare engagement and literacy that will lead to improved long-term health and lower healthcare costs. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield has a long-standing record of excellence in the administration of plans like WiseChoice in states like Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, and Ohio.

Through the partnership with Anthem, WiseChoice will provide members with the tools, resources, and financial protection to feel confident in their healthcare decisions. The Alliance is an important step forward in the expansion of access to better health coverage for small businesses, which account for over 90% of employers in the state.

Ceremonially signed by Governor Glenn Youngkin in June of 2022, and put into effect on July 1, 2022, HB 884 and SB 195 allow for the formation of benefits consortium in Virginia. Under a benefits consortium, small businesses are allowed to pool together as one large self-funded group to spread claims risk and lower administrative costs to result in savings for employees and their families.

“By partnering with Anthem, we can expand access to the small business community and drive down healthcare costs,” said Barry DuVal, President & CEO, Virginia Chamber of Commerce. “The Alliance’s goal is to help build healthier Virginians and provide new opportunities for quality health coverage.”

“Two years ago, I was proud to sign legislation that paved the way for the WiseChoice Healthcare Alliance approval at the annual Virginia Chamber Health Care Conference,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “This innovative solution is unleashing opportunity and empowering small businesses across the Commonwealth, while providing Virginians affordable and trustworthy care.

“Strategic partnerships, like ours with the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, demonstrate our common goal to redefine health, reimagine the health system, and strengthen our communities” said Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, President, Monica Schmude. “I am excited to see the hard work of so many result in a solution that makes sense for the small business community across the Commonwealth addressing affordability and providing long-term stable access to care for Virginians.”

Over the past year, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce has been working diligently with participating local chambers, the Virginia Farm Bureau, and other associations to establish the WiseChoice Healthcare Alliance. After receiving final approval from the Bureau of Insurance, the program is now ready to go to market with local insurance brokers.

Employers gain access to the WiseChoice Healthcare Alliance through membership with a participating local chamber of commerce, the Virginia Farm Bureau, or any trade association with the program. To be eligible, employers must have between 2-50 employees, have their corporate headquarters located in Anthem’s Virginia service area, and be in good standing with the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, their local participating chamber, or affiliated association. Both the Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia remain committed to developing an accessible, affordable healthcare option for small business employers in the Commonwealth.

Additional information for Virginia companies interested in joining the Alliance is available at wisechoicehealthcare.com or by contacting your local insurance broker.

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“We have a great Chamber,” Senator Warner shared to our room full of business professionals as he thanked Chamber President and CEO, Bryan K. Stephens for his exceptional leadership. The theme of leadership continued as Senator Warner reflected on his time in various public offices since 2002 while he thanked Hampton Roads elected officials for being the “heart and soul of Hampton Roads.” He continued to share about the growth in our region stating, “The Hampton Roads area has the freshest market and greatest capital innovation in the world.”

From one celebration to another, Chamber President & CEO, Bryan K. Stephens shared, “This Chamber is healthy and on the move. 2023 was a banner year for the Hampton Roads Chamber.” Bryan reflected on the past year during his President’s Report and shared events to come such as the 2024 Leadership Exchange in Tampa Bay. Our 2023 Board Chair, Jim Bibbs, shared thanks to the Chamber and the business professionals in the room saying, “It was my honor to serve as chair.” In Chamber tradition, Jim then passed the gavel to the 2024 chair, Dawn Glynn, President & Chief Experience Officer at Townebank.

During the event, recognition was given to Chamber programs and affiliates for their major accomplishments during 2023. tHRive, the Chamber’s young professional group received recognition for its fantastic programming and massive efforts to engage young professionals in the Hampton Roads region and congratulations were awarded to the LEAD757 class of 2023 for their dedication to leadership and service to the community. Bryan shared that the partnership between VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads and the Chamber was “the perfect fit” and thanked President and CEO, Stephanie Gorham, for her many years of service to the organization and community. Recognition continued for the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center. “We are basically a small business chamber,” Bryan shared as he congratulated the organization for helping almost 800 small business clients during the past year.

Congratulations were also in order for three individuals who went above and beyond for the Chamber in 2023. Misty Curtis of iFLY Virginia Beach Indoor Skydiving was presented with the 2023 Ambassador of the Year award for her dedication to mentoring new members as well as helping at many Chamber events.  Cathy Lewis of Lewis Communications Group was named as our 2023 Volunteer of the Year for her unwavering dedication to the Chamber. And finally, our Senior Member Development Manager, Diane Raihle was recognized for being awarded with her 5^th Lifetime Achievement Sales Award by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives for bringing in over 1 million dollars in membership sales.

In closing, the 2023 Annual Meeting was a celebration of not only the successful year we had but of the many accomplishments are business community saw as well!

We would like to extend thanks to our Annual Meeting sponsors for supporting this great event!

Presenting Sponsor: Old Point National Bank
Host Sponsor: Virginia Beach Convention Center
Member Spotlight Sponsors: Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, BayPort Credit Union
Gold Sponsors: Sentara Healthcare, Carnival Cruise Line
Silver Sponsors: Langley Federal Credit Union, ADP, Dominion Energy, and Hampton Roads Workforce Council
Bronze Sponsors: Wilbanks Smith & Thomas Asset Management, LLC, Bon Secours, Bank of America, Norfolk International Airport
Media Sponsor: Stellar Exposures
Video Sponsor: Two Twelve Media
Experience Sponsor: Tidewater Photobooth Co.
Decor Sponsor: Premier Events of Virginia Inc.
AV Sponsor: Productive AV

The post A Celebration of a Great Year! appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

Keynote speaker, Governor Glenn Youngkin, remarked “Bravo to you all” noting that the evening, “is about the impact that leadership has on our communities.” Governor Youngkin proudly took the stage honoring the five awardees sharing, “I know each of you personally and you are inspiring because of your leadership and service.”

The governor then thanked the 2023 LEAD757 class and the LEAD757 alumni base for their commitment to leadership in the Hampton Roads community. To the Hampton Roads Chamber, the governor remarked, “Thank you for continuing this extraordinary program,” referring to 35 years of LEAD757 and an alumni list of over 1600 leaders.

From there, the evening went on to honor our 5 BRAVO award winners.

ICON Award, Mayor Phillip Jones of Newport News

Award Rationale

In January of 2023, Mayor Jones took the oath of office as the City of Newport News youngest-elected Mayor. As Mayor of Newport News, Mayor Jones works to improve education, invest in public safety, and modernize City Hall. His vision is for Newport News to become an All-American City focused on leveraging public-private partnerships, modernizing city hall processes, and elevating the narrative of Newport News to a national level. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees for the Veterans Service Foundation, is a Board Member at Ironbound Boxing and is a member of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation and the Leadership Now Project. Prior to becoming Mayor, Mayor Jones served six years as a Marine Corps infantry officer and was also a management consultant with a leading global firm.

Remarks from Mayor Jones:

“It is an honor to be here,” Mayor Jones shared as he took the stage noting that he was blown away by all of the talent in the room. When accepting his award, Mayor Jones remarked, “People here are committed to transforming our region and nation.” Mayor Jones went on to share that the future of our youth is dependent on the example and actions made by the Mayor and City Manager.  Mayor Jones is clearly committed to promoting inclusion and engaging the community as evident in his impactful remarks.

Julian Hirst Alumni Award, Suzy Kelly of Jo-Kell, Inc.

Award Rationale

Aside from being the owner and Chief Executive Officer of Jo-Kell Inc., Suzy is involved in the Hampton Roads community in many different ways. She has served on numerous boards, committees, and commissions including the Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable, Chesapeake City Council, former Virginia Governor Bob McDonald’s Commission to Reform and Restructure Government, and she served as Chair of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Suzy has created a culture of giving back with her Jo-Kell team who donates thousands of pounds of food each year to the Southeastern Virginia Foodbank, and supports first responders annually at the Chesapeake Jubilee.

Remarks From Suzy Kelly:

During her acceptance speech, Suzy expressed her appreciation for LEAD757. Suzy remarked, “LEAD757 was the jet fuel that propelled me into service.” She then thanked TowneBank’s Charity Volman-Winn for nominating her for the leadership program. Suzy ended her speech with sharing her gratitude for her community as she shared that leadership is about connecting with people and inspiring them to help others.

Visionary Award, Shawn Avery with the Hampton Roads Workforce Council

Award Rationale

As President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, Shawn leads the largest workforce board in the Commonwealth of Virginia. He is a recipient of numerous regional and state awards and currently serves on the GO Virginia Regional Council and the Hampton Roads Alliance Boards. In July of 2021, Shawn led the merger of the Hampton Roads Workforce Council and the Greater Peninsula Workforce Board into one regional workforce development board where his work has tremendously benefitted the entire region.

Remarks From Shawn Avery:

“Workforce is a team sport. We can’t do it alone, we do it with a lot of partners,” said Shawn. He continued his award acceptance by sharing the importance of collaboration and encouraged those in the room to partner with each other to continue to help the Hampton Roads community.

Regional Statesperson Award, Senator Tommy Norment of the Senate of Virginia

Award Rationale

Senator Tommy Norment has served for over 30 years in the Senate of Virginia and while there, has earned a reputation as one of the Commonwealth’s most effective legislators. For this reason, he was elected by his colleagues to serve as Majority Leader of Senate Republicans from 2014-2020, and is currently the Minority Leader. As a member of the Senate Judiciary, Finance & Appropriations, Rules, and Commerce and Labor Committees, Tommy regularly works on legislation to make our community safer. Tommy is a champion of Virginia’s right-to-work laws and is equally committed to promoting transparency in government. For the past 32 years, Senator Norment has worked tirelessly to ensure that Hampton Roads and Virginia remains the best state in which to raise a family and do business.

Remarks From Senator Tommy Norment:

During his speech, Senator Norment shared that a statesperson sets aside their own ego and takes an objective view on issues. Starting his public service on the Board of Supervisors, Senator Norment shared how he got his start in public service. Giving words of advice he shared, “try not to focus on yourself, but focus on the objective.”

First Citizen of Hampton Roads, Bruce Thompson of Gold Key|PHR

Award Rationale

As CEO of Gold Key|PHR, Bruce Thompson has been a leader in the travel industry for over 30 years. As one of the region’s most prominent developers and hoteliers, Bruce’s grit and determination has transformed the landscape of Hampton Roads. Aside from his leadership at Gold Key|PHR, he has also been a leader within the community. He became part of the city’s inaugural Resort Area Advisory Commission, that created and managed the Tourism and Growth Investment Fund which led to some of Virginia Beach’s largest endeavors. He has served on numerous boards and commissions, led the largest Walk to Defeat ALS, and designed and funded the world’s first fully accessible oceanfront park.

Remarks From Bruce Thompson:

As Bruce took the stage to accept his prestigious award, he expressed his appreciation to his family, the Gold Key|PHR team, and his business partners. “Every single thing I have accomplished started with that first business deal in 1986.” He continued to express the importance of community involvement during times of need and ended his speech encouraging everyone to “go out and do something good this year.”

From one celebration of leadership to another, we then had the honor to highlight our fantastic LEAD757 Class of 2023.

We congratulate the following individuals on their graduation from this esteemed civic leadership program:

Claudine Beaman, Southern Bank and Trust Company
Brooke Boothby, Eastern Virginia Medical School
Scott Boyce, Clark Nexsen
Susan Bruce-Ross, garrett Realty Partners
Noreen Burke, United States Navy
Adam Chase, WTKR News3
Geoffrey Cole, Vantage Consulting Group
Kellie Crawford-Sorey, Tidewater Community College
Latonya English, Hampton Roads Workforce Council
Richard “Corky” Erie, United States Navy
Michael Evans, Hampton Roads Alliance
Sean Flynn
Heather Germany, LifeNet Health
Jessica Gomez, Newport News Shipbuilding
Charles Gunter, Virginia Natural Gas, Inc.
Ty Herron, The Port of Virginia
Lindsay Himelright, Harvey Lindsay Commercial Real Estate
Vita Kenney, Atlantic Union Bank
Alexis Majied, Hampton Roads Transit
Chuck Mitchell, Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic
Laura Morgan, TowneBank
Ashleigh Newman-Twyman, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Todd Nichols, Hampton Roads Military & Federal Facilities Alliance
William Palmer, Kaufman & Canoles, P.C.
Michael Paris, City of Norfolk Department of Economic Development
Nicholas Parr, Shepard Financial Group
Pavithra Parthasarathi, Hampton Roads Planning District Commission
Elizabeth “Liz” Pasqualini, VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads
Ingrid Phillips, City of Chesapeake Fire Department
Anthony Piglowski, Jr., Freedom Street Partners
Christopher Plante, Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
Melissa Pullin, The Franklin Johnston Group
Erin Rice, Cox Communications – East Region
Andy Rivenbark, TowneBank
Lauren Roberts Carter, Hampton Roads Chamber
James Salgado, Commonwealth Payroll
Maria Salova, Wilbanks, Smith & Thomas Asset Management, LLC
Carlos Sanyer, City of Virginia Beach Police Department
Justin Saunders, Hampton Roads Chamber
Dr. Hope Sinclair, Communities in Schools of Hampton Roads
Shannon Sorrell, Dominion Energy
Courtney Stutzman, Old Point National Bank
Jacob Trent, PNC Bank
Victor Valdez, City of Virginia Beach Fire Department
Tyler Williamson, Families of Autistic Children of Tidewater
Elisa Willis, Chesapeake Regional Healthcare
Shonda Windham, Chesapeake Public Schools

The Hampton Roads Chamber would like to thank the following sponsors for taking part in this evening of leadership celebrations!

Presenting Sponsor: The Franklin Johnston Group

Host Sponsor: Gold Key|PHR

Event Sponsors: The Port of Virginia and Jo-Kell, Inc.

Media Sponsor: WTKR News 3 and Stellar Exposures

Media Experience Sponsor: Tidewater Photobooth Co.

The post A Celebration of Regional Leadership appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

“A vision is a promise to your future self,” Lois shared, reminding us of the importance of creating a vision and looking at your vision in the long-term.

Our room full of ladies (and a few good men) enjoyed walking through this hands-on vision planning workshop many commenting on how it led them to think differently about their plan. Not only was our entire audience engaged but many even stuck around to continue planning long after the event wrapped.

Below are the four elements of an effective vision shared by Lois that will help you turn your vision into a reality as well.

1. It has to get you out of bed

Lois shared that your vision has to be powerful enough to get you up and out of bed on even the hardest days. She recommends that if you are not motivated to achieve your vision, then you need to take a deeper dive and see if itis truly your vision for yourself or a vision someone else has for you.

2. You have to believe you can get there

During the session, Lois expressed that your vision must be realistic and achievable. Expanding on that, she shared that if you do not believe you can achieve your vision, then that specific goal should not be in your vision. In short, if you do not believe you can achieve it then you will not.

3. It has to be documented

When creating your vision, write it down! Lois stressed the importance of hand writing or typing out your vision. She shared that when it is out of your head and into the world in this way that a new type of realness is created. She also encouraged our attendees to regularly look at their vision and stated, “Your plan will give you confidence and serve as an internal compass.” By reviewing your vision, you will be reminded of your end goals and assess if you are on track for achievement.

4. It has to be shared

After your vision is created, Lois encouraged the room to share it with others. She explained that when you share your vision with others, you are reaching a different level of accountability outside of yourself. When those around you know your vision, they are able to help you stay on track to make your vision an achievement.

Do you have a vision and need additional assistance to make it a reality? Click here to learn more about vision planning and the services that Lois has to offer!

Many thanks to everyone who joined us for this insightful event. We would also like to thank the following sponsors for making this event possible:

Series Member Spotlight Sponsor: Bon Secours
Speaker Sponsor: Old Point National Bank
Series Gold Sponsor: Virginia Beach Convention Center
Series Silver Sponsor: Dominion Energy
Series Bronze Sponsors: Bank of America, Wilbanks Smith & Thomas Asset Management, LLC, Virginia Natural Gas

The post Turn Your Vision into a Reality appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.

The Hampton Roads Chamber would like to extend a warm welcome to these new executives and municipal leaders.

Councilmember Mark Hugel
City of Portsmouth

Chief Stephen Jenkins
Portsmouth Police Department

Chief Kenneth P. Pravetz
Virginia Beach Fire Department

Councilmember John Rector
City of Suffolk

Councilmember Worth Remick
City of Virginia Beach

Councilmember Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond
City of Virginia Beach

Councilmember Jennifer Rouse
City of Virginia Beach

Matthew Scalia
Williamsburg Area Transit Authority

Councilmember Joash Schulman
City of Virginia Beach

Councilmember Vernon Tillage
City of Portsmouth

Fabian Fernandez
FORTIS Colleges and Institutes

Jeremy Bridges, CPE
Hampton Roads Shipping Association

Shane Knisley
BON SECOURS MARYVIEW MEDICAL CENTER

Jay Lasley
Hampton Roads Academy

Paul Nolde
757 Collab 757 Angels

Chris Piper
Virginia Public Access Project

Shannon Pociask
Hope House Foundation

Debbie Schwartz
Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital

Andy Spicknall
Bon Secours Harbor View Hospital

Mark Uren
United Way of South Hampton Roads

Galagher Jeff
Dollar Tree Stores

Mark Perryman
Norfolk Airport Authority

Paul Pickett
Old Point National Bank

Cheryl Spraberry
Advanced Integrated Technologies (AIT)

The Chamber would like to thank the following sponsors for taking part in welcoming the new executives to our region.

Gold Sponsor: Hampton Roads Workforce Council
Bronze Sponsor: Langley Federal Credit Union
Award Sponsor: G&W by Allogram South
Media Sponsor: WTKR News 3

The post Welcoming 24 New Executives to the Region appeared first on Hampton Roads Chamber.