2026 Virginia Black Business Leaders Awards: MAURISA TURNER POTTS

With more than a quarter century of experience in marketing, communications and events, Potts provides services such as strategic public relations, marketing, brand positioning and integrated communications, specializing in economic development, retail, hospitality, real estate, lifestyle, and nonprofits. Spotted MP has led public relations strategy for Tysons Corner Center mall since 2018, providing tourism-focused PR, marketing and events efforts for the shopping destination. Other names on the firm’s client roster include The Watergate Hotel and the Ballston Business Improvement District.

Earlier in her career, Potts worked as a marketing and business development supervisor for global law firm Reed Smith and as marketing director for the Crystal City Business Improvement District. A Virginia Tech alumna, Potts sits on the university’s College of Business Marketing Advisory Board.

PROUDEST PROFESSIONAL ACCOMPLISHMENT: I launched Spotted MP in 2008 at a time when most people were scaling back and playing it safe. I did the opposite. I walked away from a steady corporate career because I felt called to build something different: an agency that was intentionally “small yet mighty,” rooted in purpose, creativity and measurable results.

As a Black- and woman-owned boutique consultancy, Spotted MP was born out of resilience, risk and a deep belief that strategic storytelling can truly drive impact. I literally launched my business from my couch while nursing my newborn. I was told more than once that it would probably just be “a little hobby.” Fast-forward 17 years, and that “hobby” has become one of the region’s most respected independent PR and marketing firms, known for blending strategy and storytelling.

HOBBIES: Football and baseball are my top loves, and I joke that my husband of 20 years might have married me for my game-day energy.