Real Estate 2024: JON M. PETERSON

Founded in 1965 by Peterson’s late father, Milt, Peterson Cos. is responsible for some of the most prominent and successful mixed-use retail, residential and office developments in Northern Virginia and Maryland, including Fairfax Corner, Fair Lakes, National Harbor, Burke Centre and Tysons McLean Office Park.

Peterson, who became executive committee chairman in 2016 and CEO in 2018, helms the 170-employee real estate development firm, which also develops self-storage and industrial projects, including data centers.

The Peterson Family Foundation has made large donations to Northern Virginia entities this year, including a $20 million gift to Inova Health System announced in April and a $5 million donation to George Mason University announced in May.

A 1986 Middlebury College graduate, Peterson plays on the college’s alumni lacrosse team. He started his third term in July on George Mason’s board of visitors and serves on the boards of the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance and Youth for Tomorrow, a nonprofit organization started by former Washington Redskins head coach Joe Gibbs.

PERSON I ADMIRE: Joe Gibbs. I admire his ability to build successful teams.

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