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LEAD Hampton Roads

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LEAD Hampton Roads

LEAD 757 has a network of over 1,300 graduates from the greater Hampton Roads region, representing the private, public and nonprofit sectors.

LEAD757 builds and strengthens regional leadership through education, partnerships and networking for the purpose of improving the quality of life in greater Hampton Roads. Celebrating 30 years of developing leaders, LEAD 757 is the oldest and largest community leadership organization in Hampton Roads and one of the oldest and largest in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Together with an expansive net

work of distinguished alumni, LEAD 757 continues our proud tradition of connecting, inspiring and motivating leaders capable of strengthening the region’s prosperity and our place in the Commonwealth. Our proactive leaders make substantive, positive changes throughout our region and beyond. LEAD 757 is a program of the Hampton Roads Chamber.

05/28/2026

From higher education leadership to a love of history, nature, and lifelong learning, Carolyn Phillips brings a thoughtful and inspiring perspective to the LEAD757 Class of 2026.

As the Pathway Dean for Arts & Humanities at Tidewater Community College, Carolyn is passionate about education and understanding the world around us. If she had pursued a different career path, she says anthropology or geology would have been at the top of the list because of her fascination with the long-term past and how it shapes our present and future.

Outside of work, Carolyn enjoys spending time outdoors with her family at Windsor Castle Park in Smithfield, a place filled with special memories from her sons’ cross-country meets. And although she lives on the coast, she admits the mountains and desert landscapes have always had her heart more than the ocean.

We’re excited to have Carolyn as part of the Class of 2026 and can’t wait to see the impact she makes throughout this journey!

Hampton Roads Chamber

05/21/2026

From aviation finance to haunted Hampton Roads traditions, Bruce Tingle brings a unique perspective to the LEAD757 Class of 2026!

As Director of Finance at the Norfolk International Airport, Bruce helps support one of the region’s most important gateways while bringing a thoughtful, hands-on approach to leadership and problem solving.

Bruce’s passion for Hampton Roads shines both professionally and personally. When asked what local event he never misses, he shared his family tradition of attending the Norfolk Haunted Temple at the Norfolk Masonic Temple every Halloween. From the unforgettable presence of two clowns “Twitch and Jerk” greeting guests outside to the psychological twists inside, it’s an event that keeps them coming back year after year and maybe one day even as scare actors themselves!

As for the best view in Hampton Roads? Bruce says it’s from the top of Garage A at Norfolk International Airport, where you can watch flights arrive and depart with the Virginia Beach skyline in the distance.

And if Bruce wasn’t leading in finance? He’d be running his own garage. He loves the hands-on process of solving mechanical problems, getting his hands dirty, and seeing the immediate results of hard work a passion that perfectly reflects his problem-solving mindset and dedication to service.

We’re excited to have Bruce as part of this year’s class and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll continue to make across our region!

Hampton Roads Chamber

05/13/2026

Say hello to another amazing leader from the LEAD757 Class of 2026 Joy Wansley, who brings community, creativity, and passion to everything she does at Bloom Coworking.

Joy has called Hampton Roads home since 1998 after relocating from Pennsylvania to pursue her MBA. Since then, she has become deeply connected to the region and passionate about building meaningful connections within the community.

Her personal mottos, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” and “But God,” reflect the faith, resilience, and positivity she carries into both her personal and professional life.

On Saturdays, you’ll most likely find Joy exploring thrift stores, flea markets, and vintage boutiques. Her love for sustainable fashion comes from the excitement of discovering timeless pieces filled with history, character, and quality proving that every item truly tells a story.

We’re so excited to have Joy as part of the LEAD757 Class of 2026 and look forward to seeing the impact she continues to make throughout Hampton Roads!

Hampton Roads Chamber

05/06/2026

Meet another incredible member of the LEAD757 Class of 2026 Bryan Fox, President & CEO of Lumin Strategies!

Bryan and his Norfolk-native wife first met at Duke, later growing their family with a son in Washington, DC and a daughter in the Research Triangle before recently making Ocean View home. A former congressional staffer and Durham Chamber professional, Bryan’s connection to the Hampton Roads Chamber began during our 2019 Leadership Exchange.

Today, Bryan and his family are excited to grow Lumin Strategies right here in 757, bringing their expertise in PR and lobbying for economic development organizations and local governments to our region.

When he’s not traveling for work or spending time with family, you’ll likely find Bryan enjoying the beach or out on the golf course.

We’re excited to have Bryan as part of the Class of 2026 and can’t wait to see the impact he continues to make across Hampton Roads!

Hampton Roads Chamber

04/24/2026

A deeper look at what keeps our region moving. 🚧

The LEAD757 Class of 2026 recently took part in Infrastructure Day, an immersive experience focused on understanding the systems, projects, and decisions that shape Hampton Roads and its future.
The day began bright and early as the class boarded the bus in Virginia Beach, setting the tone for a hands-on learning experience.

One of the highlights of the day was a firsthand look at the expansion of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, led by Michael T. Crist, P.E., Deputy Executive Director of Infrastructure at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Hearing directly from project leadership gave the class a deeper appreciation for the scale, complexity, and long-term vision required to execute transformative infrastructure projects.

As the group returned for afternoon sessions, the conversation expanded to include some of the region’s most impactful initiatives. Participants heard from Michelle Martin, HRBT Expansion Project Manager with the Virginia Department of Transportation, who shared insights into one of the largest infrastructure projects in the region.

Additional perspectives were provided by Bob Crum, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission, who discussed regional infrastructure priorities, and Doug Smith, President & CEO of the Hampton Roads Alliance, who highlighted the Hampton Roads “Playbook” and its role in driving economic growth.

The conversation continued with Amy Jordan, Director of Business Development at Hampton Roads Transit, who shared how transit development plays a critical role in connectivity, workforce access, and the region’s future.

Throughout the day, one theme remained clear: infrastructure is more than roads and bridges it’s the foundation for opportunity, innovation, and regional success.

The day concluded with time to reflect and connect, reinforcing that leadership in this space requires not only understanding, but engagement and action.

Hampton Roads Chamber

04/22/2026

Who’s making an impact in the 757?

We’re proud to spotlight the incredible leaders of the LEAD757 Class of 2026 individuals who are shaping our region through passion, purpose, and community.

Next up, meet Christabelle Fernandez!

A Virginia Beach native, Christabelle is deeply rooted in Hampton Roads and passionate about giving back to the community she calls home. As Director of Development at the LGBT Life Center, she is dedicated to supporting and uplifting those around her through meaningful work and advocacy.

She loves supporting local favorites like Norfolk Candle and never misses Pridefest a vibrant celebration of community, inclusion, and love.

Her personal motto? “Less sad, more rad.” It’s a reflection of her positive outlook and the energy she brings into both her personal and professional life. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her spending Saturdays in her garage gym with her rescue Pitbull staying active and grounded.

And here’s a fun fact: Christabelle was once the #1 popcorn seller at her high school movie theater… so it’s no surprise she found her way into fundraising! If she weren’t in nonprofit work, she’d still be volunteering and supporting local organizations because making an impact is simply part of who she is.

Join us in welcoming Christabelle below and stay tuned for more member spotlights!

Hampton Roads Chamber

04/13/2026

Today we’d like you to meet Quincy White, President and CEO of the Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation and member of the incredible Class of 2026!

Quincy has spent several years in Hampton Roads, with time in Hilton Head, South Carolina before making his way back to the 757. For him, this region has always been a place to do meaningful work while staying connected to a strong community.

A self-proclaimed foodie, Quincy enjoys supporting local restaurants, especially Aldo's Ristorante. If there’s great pasta involved, there’s a good chance you’ll find him there. 🍝

When it comes to mindset, Quincy is guided by the phrase “achievement in the field of human endeavor,” a reminder to pursue excellence and ensure the work we do truly matters. That purpose shows up in his current focus: scaling organizations in a way that is intentional, impactful, and responsive to community needs.

Outside of work, he enjoys farmers markets, relaxing weekends at home with his wife and daughter, and taking in one of the best views in the region from Hilton Norfolk The Main.

Oh and fun fact: Quincy once received a pet rabbit named Lola as a birthday gift… and she quickly became part of the family, with full run of the house.

We’re excited to have Quincy as part of this year’s ! Stay tuned as we continue highlighting the leaders shaping our region.

04/01/2026

New class, who this? 👀

We’re excited to introduce you to the incredible individuals that make up the LEAD Hampton Roads Class of 2026 through our spotlight series, giving you a closer look at the people, passions, and personalities behind this year’s class.

First up? Meet Ashley Oden! Originally from the mountains of Virginia, Ashley made her way to Hampton Roads to attend Christopher Newport University and never left.

As Campus Executive Director at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance, Ashley brings a passion for learning and growth to everything she does. Her personal motto? “You can’t solve a problem you don’t understand.” It’s a mindset that fuels her curiosity and drives her to keep learning, evolving, and finding better solutions.

And here’s a fun fact: if she weren’t leading in aviation, you might find her on the racetrack. 🏁 Ashley is convinced she could have a future as a racecar driver (and honestly…we believe her).

Thank you Ashley, for your commitment and contribution to the Class of 2026.

Join us below in welcoming Ashley, and stay tuned to get to know more members of the !

11/14/2025

Throughout their nine-month program, the LEAD757 Class of 2025 has grown, connected, and led with purpose. This highlight reel captures just a glimpse of their journey.

The Hampton Roads Chamber was proud to celebrate their accomplishments at the BRAVO Awards and honor the impact they’re already making across our region.

Here’s to bold leadership and an even brighter future for Hampton Roads!

Address

101 W. Main Street
Norfolk, VA
23510

Telephone

+17576222312

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