Local Leaders and Business Moves: Who's Shaping the Region Now

A wave of new appointments and promotions is reshaping leadership across Virginia's business and government scenes. Governor Abigail Spanberger has made several key board picks, tapping experts in aquaculture, marine science, agriculture, and public safety. Kimberly Huskey and Michael Schwarz are staying on with the Aquaculture Advisory Board, while Jonathan van Senten and Shelby White join the Marine Products Board. Steven Kyle Sturgis and Mark A. Hickman are back on the Potato Board, and Tiffany D. Jenkins returns to the Board of Local and Regional Jails. Anna Mulé McRay is now part of the Secure and Resilient Commonwealth Panel, and Anton Bell has joined the State Crime Commission.

In the private sector, Brandi L. Smith is stepping up as executive director and vice president of Steel America, a branch of Colonna's Shipyard. She comes from Newport News Shipbuilding, where she led major projects like the USS John F. Kennedy. A graduate of North Carolina State University, Smith has deep roots in engineering and shipbuilding.

Elizabeth Barnette has taken on a new role as director-at-large of the American Society of Safety Professionals. With three decades in manufacturing and construction, she brings serious experience to the table. Her term runs until mid-2027, and she's based in Ivor while working out of Chesapeake.

Ken Strickler is now leading Commonwealth, a commercial real estate firm that just hit its 30-year mark. He started there in 2005 and worked his way up. The company has 225 employees and manages over 24 million square feet of property across 15 states.

On the education front, the Virginia Department of Education is honoring top principals through its Principals of Distinction program. This year's group includes leaders from York County, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake. The awards focus on strong student results, great teaching, and positive school culture. Teachers are also being recognized through the National STEM Scholar Program, with local educators earning spots based on creative classroom project ideas.