New Leadership and Appointments Announced Across Virginia
Recent announcements have brought a wave of new appointments and leadership changes across various sectors in Virginia, highlighting a mix of innovation and experienced leadership. Key figures have been appointed to influential positions, each bringing unique expertise to their roles.
Appointments by Gov. Glenn Youngkin
Governor Glenn Youngkin has made several appointments to various boards and panels. Jesse Goodrich from Williamsburg, who serves as the senior vice president of human resources at Riverside Health System, is now a member of the Health Workforce Development Authority. James Young, president of JYE Financial in Norfolk, joins the Cemetery Board. Georgie Márquez-André, an architect from Portsmouth, has been added to the Secure and Resilient Commonwealth Panel. Additionally, Yohance Goodrich of Chesapeake, a unit supervisor at the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, will serve on the State Rehabilitation Advisory Council. Jay Jamison of Virginia Beach has been appointed to the Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads, and Robert Leek, a retired healthcare administrator from Williamsburg, joins the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth board of trustees.
Corporate Promotions and Changes
Roger Kelly has ascended to the role of vice president of contracts and pricing at Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding division, taking over from Matt Mulherin Jr., who now serves as vice president of supply chain and strategic sourcing. In the nonprofit sector, the Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast have appointed Lucinda W. Klevecz as incoming board chair and Leonard Brown Jr. as vice chair for the 2025-2026 term.
Recognition in Real Estate and Public Relations
Brenda E. Karp, vice president of business development at The Breeden Co., has been recognized as a top 2025 Influencer in Multifamily Real Estate by GlobeSt. The accolade honors her leadership and innovation in the multifamily housing industry. Meanwhile, the Public Relations Society of America Hampton Roads Chapter, in collaboration with Hampton University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications, hosted a discussion with PRSA CEO Matthew Marcial on the future of communications, with a focus on AI, ethics, and digital transformation.
Honors and Awards
Gerald Divaris, chairman and CEO of Divaris Real Estate, has been celebrated with the Virginia Business’ Icon Honors Award for his career-long contributions to the industry. Newport News Vice Mayor Curtis Bethany III has been elected as vice president of the Virginia Municipal League board of directors. The Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired honored the city of Norfolk for its commitment to hiring individuals with disabilities. Additionally, TowneBank received the Golden Paw Award from the Virginia Living Museum for its support and contributions.
Manufacturing and Innovation Excellence
Virginia Beach-based Acoustical Sheetmetal Co. triumphed at the 2025 Virginia Manufacturing Cup, securing first place in the fabricated metal products category. Innovated Machine & Tool Co. Inc. in Newport News has expanded its operations, adding 30,000 square feet to support its growing business needs.
Grants and Donations
The Up Center has been awarded a $250,000 grant from the KPMG U.S. Foundation, aiming to integrate AI into its electronic health record system. Similarly, Cox Communications has provided a $25,000 grant to open an innovation lab at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula, featuring former NFL player Malcolm Mitchell at its grand opening.
Strategic Partnerships and Expansions
Legasea Marine in York County is now an authorized dealer for Monterey Boats, while A&G Thrift and Supplies in Newport News has become a U-Haul neighborhood dealer. Furthermore, Fairlead of Portsmouth and Fairwinds Technologies have formed a strategic partnership to enhance support for the Navy, Marine Corps, and Space Force.
Submarine Sea Trial
The Virginia-class attack submarine Massachusetts has completed its initial sea trials, marking a significant milestone for Newport News Shipbuilding. The submarine, the 25th of its class, will undergo further testing prior to its delivery to the Navy.
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