Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

The 2026 Virginia Black Business Leaders Awards

//February 2, 2026//

Harmon

Harmon

Harmon

Harmon

The 2026 Virginia Black Business Leaders Awards

//February 2, 2026//

From rebuilding communities in the post–Jim Crow era to leading Fortune 500 companies and public institutions today, Black business leaders have played a central role in shaping Virginia’s modern economy. Today, they are driving growth, innovation and opportunity across the commonwealth — leading major corporations, expanding small businesses, strengthening public institutions and driving progress across industries.

Virginia Business is proud to continue honoring that legacy for the fourth year with our 2026 Virginia Black Business Leaders Awards. This year’s 29 honorees — nominated by our readers and editors — represent a wide range of fields, including health care, finance, energy and professional services, and are recognized for their career achievements, community impact and commitment to mentorship.

Additionally, Virginia Business has named Jonathan P. Harmon, chairman of the powerful law firm McGuireWoods, and Rita McClenny, longtime leader of the Virginia Tourism Corp., to our Virginia Black Business Leaders Hall of Fame, recognizing their enduring influence on Virginia’s business community.

In the pages that follow, our honorees share their stories in their own words — from early career lessons to the ways they continue to give back.

Virginia Black Business Leaders Hall of Fame

r
YOUR NEWS.
YOUR INBOX.
DAILY.

By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy.