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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.

06/18/2026

Meet Chris Jones, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer for the Norfolk International Airport and a member of the LEAD757 Class of 2026!

Chris relocated to Hampton Roads in 2022 after accepting a position as Communications Director with the City of Norfolk. Having previously lived in the area in 1997, he always hoped to return to Virginia and was excited to make Hampton Roads home once again.

Before transitioning into public communications, Chris built a career as a journalist and still carries a passion for storytelling and writing. Today, he leads marketing and communications efforts for the Norfolk Airport Authority while continuing to grow as a leader, particularly in the areas of budgeting and organizational management.

When he's not working, Chris enjoys exploring Hampton Roads' vibrant local restaurant scene, with favorites including Byrd & Baldwin Bros. Steakhouse, Razzo, and Lola's Beach Cantina. You'll also find him spending weekends working in his backyard or making trips to Lowe's for his latest home improvement project.

A lover of travel and new experiences, Chris has walked through Red Square, along the Great Wall of China, and across the arch of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Closer to home, he enjoys watching sunsets from East Beach and taking in the river views from downtown Norfolk.

We're excited to have Chris's communications expertise, leadership, and unique perspective as part of the LEAD757 Class of 2026!

Hampton Roads Chamber

06/12/2026

Today, the LEAD757 Class of 2026 explored the profound impact the Department of Defense has on Hampton Roads our economy, workforce, and community. From air operations at NAS Oceana to naval capabilities at Naval Station Norfolk, the day provided an incredible behind the scenes look at the leaders, missions, and partnerships that make our region a cornerstone of national defense.

We began the day at NAS Oceana with a welcome briefing and Q&A led by John C. Lauterbach Jr., Planning Liaison of NAS Oceana followed by a tour of the Landing Signal Officer (LSO) School.

After traveling to Naval Station Norfolk, we heard from Rick Dwyer, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance (HRMFFA), who provided valuable insight into the military’s role throughout Hampton Roads and its significance to our regional economy.

The afternoon included a windshield tour of Naval Station Norfolk led by Captain Ray Glenn, Executive Officer of Naval Station Norfolk, and a remarkable opportunity to tour the USS San Antonio (LPD-17), gaining a greater appreciation for the capabilities and readiness of our Navy.

This session carried special meaning. It reinforced not only the importance of our military installations but also the sacrifices made by service members, their families, and the civilian workforce who support our nation’s defense every day.

A sincere thank you to all of today’s speakers and hosts for sharing your expertise and leadership with our class.

Hampton Roads Chamber

06/10/2026

Meet Amy Ward, EMS Deputy Chief with Virginia Beach EMS and a member of the LEAD757 Class of 2026!

A self-described military brat, Amy moved to Hampton Roads in 1988 by way of Washington, D.C., after growing up in Pennsylvania. For the past 36 years, she has dedicated her career to Emergency Medical Services throughout our region, serving as a First Responder, EMT, Paramedic, and now Deputy Chief with the Virginia Beach City Department of EMS.

When she's not serving the community, Amy enjoys reading, cooking, baking, and spending time with her husband tending to their apiary of nearly 30 beehives. She's also active in her church, teaches children's Sunday school, and sings in multiple choirs and ensembles.

A lifelong learner, Amy holds degrees from J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College and Old Dominion University in nursing, biology, and history. She has a passion for medieval history, the mountains, running water, and exploring the wonders of the night sky. At home, you'll often find her with her 11-year-old chocolate lab, Max.

We're excited to have Amy's experience, leadership, and dedication to service as part of the LEAD757 Class of 2026!

Hampton Roads Chamber

06/04/2026

Helping shape the future of Hampton Roads through economic development, strategic partnerships, and regional growth, Henry Gaston brings a passion for community impact to the LEAD757 Class of 2026.

As Director of Business Development at the Hampton Roads Alliance, Henry works to support defense and maritime industry growth throughout the region, helping strengthen industries that are vital to both our local economy and national security. A Hampton Roads native, he left the region to pursue his education and early career opportunities before ultimately returning home to make a difference in the community that helped shape him. With his fiancée working at Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters and their wedding on the horizon, Hampton Roads is truly home in every sense of the word.

When asked about a local business he loves supporting, Henry highlighted organizations like Huntington Ingalls Industries and Atlantic Diving Supply companies that serve as critical anchors of our region's defense industrial base. Supporting their growth and strengthening local supply chains is a meaningful part of the work he does every day.

And when he's not helping drive economic growth across the region, you'll likely find Henry and his fiancée enjoying community events at COVA Brewing Company, one of their favorite local spots to relax and connect with friends.

As someone who chose to return home and invest in the future of Hampton Roads, Henry brings a unique perspective on leadership, economic growth, and regional impact. We're excited to have him as part of the LEAD757 Class of 2026 and look forward to learning from his experience throughout the program.

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

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101 W. Main Street
Norfolk, VA
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