Occupation: Community Volunteer

Hometown: Gainesville, FL

We hear you are “volunteer extraordinaire” around Lynchburg. Tell us about your charitable efforts.

The list is a long one! Formerly, I was:

• Board member, (chair of allocations in 1999-2000), United Way of Central VA
• Board member, chairman of Board of Directors, Point of Honor
• Board member, Awareness Garden and member of long-range planning committee
• Member Advisory Board of Preston Library, VMI, Lexington, VA
• Board member of the  Weekday School Board, First Presbyterian Church
• Deacon, Elder and long time member of First Presbyterian choir
• Lay member of the Ninth District Disciplinary of the Virginia State Bar
• Co-chair presidential search committee Randolph College (Kathleen Bowman), co-chair retirement for RC President, Kathleen Bowman, co-chair RC Inauguration weekend for incoming President John Klein.

Currently, I am:

• Co-chair of the United Way campaign, 2011-2012
• Board member and Secretary of the Board of Amazement Square
• Member of Women’s Leadership Council and member of the steering committee of WLC
• Trustee Emerita of Randolph College
• Chair of the Conrad Brown Fund Committee, First Presbyterian Church

You have a big role as the Co-chair of the United Way Campaign of Central Virginia. What does that entail?

I currently serve as co-chair with my husband, Don. As co-chair of this year’s campaign, we meet monthly with our cabinet and sector chairs and help assist in corporate presentations. Our needs are greater this year than ever before, thus we are constantly “brain storming” to try to expand our donor base to encourage more first time donors and to encourage our current donors to increase their giving.

The more funds that United Way can raise mean that we can do even more for our neediest citizens. As co-chairs of the campaign, we have greater awareness about United Way funded programs and how vital their work is to the well-being of our community.

Do you have any specific stories from your time giving back that have touched you or left an impression on you?

A woman in an abusive situation fled from her husband with her children for fear of their safety.  She was taken in by the YWCA shelter for abused women. She successfully raised her children and now heads the Domestic Violence shelter of the YWCA. She successfully broke the cycle of abusiveness. 

And I must add that one of the most rewarding things of my volunteerism is to watch children as they explore and learn while having such fun at Amazement Square. Our school tours which are geared to the SOLs provide an incredible hands-on learning experience which consequently helps to stimulate a child’s interest and retention of the particular program’s subject matter.  Our most recent exhibit “Bug University” is an exhibit for all ages!

You are being recognized as this year’s “Honorary Goddess” at the Gathering of the Goddesses at Amazement Square on February 10 this year. What does that honor mean to you?

I am quite honored and flattered to have been chosen this year. The previous “Goddesses” are such impressive women and have contributed so much to our community. It is humbling and quite special to be a part of this remarkable group.

What do you love most about living and volunteering in Lynchburg?

Lynchburg is an outstanding place to live. We are fortunate to have amongst other things, a wonderful medical community, a superb educational system, extensive cultural opportunities and a very caring and supportive community. Volunteering is what makes Lynchburg an even better place to live. It is a humbling and rewarding feeling to think that you might have made a difference in the life of someone less fortunate.

What would you say to encourage more people in our area to give back?

Giving back, whether it is monetary or of your time and talents, is vital for a healthy community. As citizens, we have a responsibility to be aware of the needs in our area. Being informed should be the stimulant for involvement and volunteering. Our volunteers make donated dollars go so much farther.

The Free Clinic is an example of the impact that volunteerism has.  Through the nonprofit volunteers, your $1 donation can be stretched to $5, $10 or even $20 worth of services are provided for our needy citizens. The United Way of Central Virginia is a wonderful resource to help identify an organization that is a fit for one’s interests.  By being involved and volunteering, you are setting a wonderful example for others to follow.

Age: 56

Hometown: Jeffersonville, IN

You took over the role of President and CEO on October 1. How would you describe your first few weeks at Centra?

They’ve been very exciting. I think the one thing that’s still hard to get used to is how nice people are here—the whole Southern hospitality. It’s not that people aren’t nice in the Midwest but that seems to be something about Lynchburg that people really pride themselves on. People stop you in stores and say hello and just seem to go out of their way to make you feel comfortable, so I wish my career the rest of the way could be this way because at some point, people will know me. But right now, it is really wonderful for me and my whole family for everyone to go out of their way to make us feel welcome.

Has anything surprised you about Centra so far?

It’s largely what has been described but I will say that as I’ve gotten to know more about the organization and the community, I think there is more potential here than I could appreciate before. In particular, the community and Centra have a very special relationship and I think it’s stronger than what I’ve seen in my previous two jobs in two different communities and I think that really strong relationship will bode well for both Centra and the community as we go together through this new era in healthcare and healthcare reform. So I think if anything, it’s even better than I thought coming into the job.

You moved here from Illinois, what’s been the most challenging part of the transition so far, both personally and professionally?

Challenging would be the wrong word. My wife and I have moved a couple of times, so this isn’t particularly challenging other than the normal stuff like where is the hair dresser? Where do you take your clothes to be laundered? How do you get to the grocery store? But again, people here are so helpful. In fact, one of our neighbors—this is probably one of the nicest things—knocked on the door to introduce themselves and gave us a list of about 15 things that told us, here’s where you get your clothes laundered, here’s a handyman, here’s a painter … you know, stuff that you might need.

As for the job, there’s nothing that I would say is particularly challenging but you have a lot of people to meet. The board and leadership here and the physicians have all stopped by and pretty much what they told me [about Centra] is what I was able to expect. I had two or three months before I came out here to begin to learn about Centra and get information so I didn’t walk in on October 1 without having a fair amount of information and homework already done.

You have three children and one grandson. Are any of them here with you?

Yes, they are all here. My oldest is a girl, she’s 25 and a single mother and has my grandson, so they are both here. My older son is here and he will be going to school in January. My youngest son is visiting Virginia for the first time at Thanksgiving. He’s a freshman at Michigan State University in engineering, so we took him to college before we moved here, so he hasn’t seen Virginia, but he’s excited. We actually sent him a Virginia care package recently with a Virginia t-shirt and Virginia peanuts and everything “Virginia” to get him comfortable coming to his new home.

Centra is clearly well-known in this area and the medical community as a whole for having outstanding doctors, technology and care. Is that what drew you here or was it something else?

Professionally, the number one reason I came, which relates to those pieces, is that healthcare reform is going to happen one way or another … and that amount of work is going to take community support and community buy-in [to achieve.] There aren’t going to be a lot of communities around the country that really have the ability to redesign healthcare in the same fashion that Centra and Central Virginia can.

As a professional, I could have retired at Methodist [Health Services Corporation in Illinois, where Bryant was previously the president and CEO], and we would have been able to do some things, but I think that Centra and Central Virginia are just a unique perspective. I don’t think there are going to be a hundred communities that are going to be able to do what Centra could do in Central Virginia if we can come up with the right vision and then we can then take that and together find the mechanisms to really improve the health of the population in Central Virginia. And that’s really the challenge—whether we can do it, whether we have the courage to do it, whether we have the right mechanisms but I do think that Centra in Central Virginia can be a model of what healthcare done the right way can look like because Centra does have all the key elements and infrastructure. George Dawson and his team and the board have just done a wonderful job of putting us in a position to adapt to this next environment. So, that’s really the professional opportunity.

Personally, we’ve lived in the Northeast, we’ve lived in the Midwest, now we have a chance to be Southerners, so that was exciting to say let’s go and add more variety to our life and be part of the Southern culture. And there’s really nothing like a Southern accent.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I’m very team-oriented; I guess that’s sort of my Indiana basketball upbringing. One of the things you learn is that it’s all about the team. Teams win championships. Organizationally, Centra is a team—it’s not about one leader or one part of Centra. It’s the whole team that will make us successful. I think that’s part of the [leadership] style is making sure that I have a very strong team that can take and lead the organization. And there is obviously a very strong team here at Centra, so I think I fit into that dynamic very well.

I think being very visible in the community and promoting Centra is a big part of my strength. One of the keys to success for Centra down the road is having a vision that the community understands is their vision, it’s not just a Centra vision. And I think it will be incumbent upon me as CEO to be communicating that vision and making sure that people understand their role in that vision and that really and truly together, we are improving the population health of the people of Central Virginia. So I think that will be one thing I enjoy and has been a strength of mine in my 22 years as a CEO to this point.

I don’t think I need to tell you that your predecessor, George Dawson, is well-loved by the Centra community and the Lynchburg community as a whole. What kind of legacy do you hope to leave at Centra?

Well, I haven’t thought about it! Maybe you can ask me that in 10 or 11 years when my time is over. But what I want to do coming in is build on what George has done. He has left a great organization. But if you were having this conversation with George, he is going to tell you that the world is going to change and Centra has to change with it. If he weren’t retired, he would be making some adjustments as well because the world is going to change.

So, I think what’s most important and what I want George and everybody in this community to feel is that there is a legacy coming. At the end of the day, regardless of how we change, I don’t want the essence of Centra to change, which is our mission statement—“Excellent Care Every Time.” How we deliver that, subject to what the new environment is, is one thing but at the end of the day, everybody who comes here believes that they get excellent care every time and during my time here and at the end of my career, I hope people look back and say “Centra delivers excellent care every time.” I think that’s the greatest compliment and legacy that you can receive, and I think that is what George has left.

You’re an IU fan. How do you find time to get your basketball fix?

I am a huge college basketball fan, so I am going to be going to some games. Obviously, UVA is close so I suspect I will be going to some UVA games. Obviously, Lynchburg [College] and Liberty [University] play. We are close to good ACC basketball. I like to joke that if I can’t be in the best basketball conference in the country, at least I’m at the second best. ACC fans don’t appreciate that!

What do you enjoy doing when you aren’t working?

I think for the next year, now that we are in town, Paula [Bryant’s wife] and I are hoping to get into biking next spring. We are going to do some mountain hiking and kayaking and begin to enjoy and experience some of the activities that you do here in Central Virginia. But right now, it’s just getting our house and family situated …. we are just on a family focus. We are meeting people, starting friendships, visiting churches. So that’s where we are at now, but come spring I think we will start doing some of those things that people enjoy here.

Age: 64

Hometown: Forest Hills Gardens, New York City, currently lives in Forest

After more than 25 years of leading at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, we hear you are retiring next December. How did you know the time had come to announce your retirement?

I’ve always planned to retire when I reach the age of 65. I feel it’s the stage of life to shift my focus— basically it’s exactly what Jefferson did when he started using his retreat at Poplar Forest! Just like Mr. Jefferson, I think it’s time to spend more time with family and my favorite pastimes, which get insufficient time and attention when I’m working a heavy-duty, full-time schedule!

So much progress and restoration has happened at Poplar Forest since you took the reigns there in 1986. What are some of your proudest accomplishments as President thus far?

It truly has been an extraordinary experience, a once-in-lifetime opportunity, to work with the founders of this rescue initiative from the beginning. I am proud of the terrific progress that Poplar Forest’s team of board, staff, donors and volunteers have made possible during the past 26 years. We have accomplished so much toward the ultimate goal of preserving this national legacy for all future generations. For me personally, the team’s accomplishments of which I am most proud are:

• The rescue and protection of so much of the heart of Jefferson’s retreat. Rescuing and preserving a major national resource like this takes many decades—just think how long it took for Mt. Vernon and Monticello to get where they are today. I have always felt that the most important contribution our generation can make to Poplar Forest’s preservation is to acquire the land at the heart of the retreat. Plus, the “journey” of both witnessing the archaeologists bringing new information to light about Jefferson’s ideas and life here, and handcrafting the restoration of each part of his vision, is a fantastic experience that the next generation can enjoy experiencing just as we do, as they complete the tasks we’ve begun to bring Poplar Forest to its full potential as a major national resource.

• The world-class, state-of-the-art restoration that we have under way. The board believed right from the beginning that we had the responsibility to use the highest possible standards in handling this nationally-significant historic resource. We have stuck to that principle and the project has received national acclaim as a model for “doing it right.”

• We have begun the landscape restoration. Beginning to restore the landscape features is exciting to me because it brings vividly into sight for everyone the fact that Jefferson didn’t just design a house … he sculpted  a total retreat environment by masterfully integrating manmade and natural features. Step by step, the archaeologists can uncover more and more pieces of the currently visually-missing pieces of the puzzle so that, in the end, Jefferson’s vision for his ideal personal space will come back into clear view.

How did you come to be in your role at Poplar Forest?

My career in historic preservation had included running the NY State historic survey and National Register program, and subsequently, I was chosen to join the headquarters staff at the National Register of Historic Places (D.C.).  At mid-career, I paused to obtain an MBA at The George Washington University (I already had a B.A. from Vassar in history and an M.A. from UVA in architectural history). Just as I completed that MBA, I learned about the search for the first executive director for Thomas Jefferson’s retreat, and applied.

Poplar Forest, in comparison to Jefferson’s famous home, Monticello, is a lesser known jewel. How has your team worked over the past two decades to create awareness of its significance?

The biggest challenge was getting the word out. Because Jefferson himself had not generally shared information about his getaway spot, except for Jefferson scholars and people in this area, people in our time didn’t know that Jefferson even had a personal retreat, much less that it was endangered. In the early years, the funds we raised were so needed for the basics of rescuing the property that there was limited money available for spreading the word. We worked hard to get information out in tourism communication networks that Poplar Forest was available to experience, and to alert members of the media about this undiscovered gem.

What are your hopes and dreams for Poplar Forest over the next 10 years?

At the top of my “hopes and dreams” for Poplar Forest are finding the resources to enable this organization to:

• Complete the rescue of the land at the heart of the retreat
• Build an endowment to protect and care for Poplar Forest in future years
• Develop experiences for the public that can inspire people to live lives of curiosity and creativity as Jefferson did

If you could have a conversation with Mr. Jefferson after all these years of working to revitalize and promote his beloved retreat home, what do you imagine you would say to him, and him to you?

Other than asking him for the scoop about where the archaeologists should dig to find all the fascinating knowledge that we seek, I’d want to say that it has been a privilege to work to promote greater knowledge about him. I think he’d be pleased that everyone on this team appreciates this special place as much as he did. I think he’d approve of the high standards to which we are doing the archaeological and architectural work … and I think he’d encourage us to press on to achieve our vision for educating and inspiring.

Occupation: Ophthalmologist

Hometown: Christiansburg, VA

You started Harman Eye Center in 1988 and have grown significantly since then. Tell us about your practice these days.

Harman Eye Center (HEC) now has seven offices and the area’s only ambulatory surgery center dedicated to eye surgery (Eye Surgery Center of Central Virginia). We employ over 60 staff members and our physicians cover all facets of eye care, from routine examinations and optical services to the most advanced eye surgery. HEC offices are in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, Danville, Forest, Lynchburg and Wyndhurst. I thought it was important to offer patients eye care in their own communities and to employ staff from those communities as well. We also wanted the MDs in those areas to have an eye care provider close by for their patients.

HEC is patient-centered. Our mission is to provide high-quality eye care and advanced technology, as well as exceptional customer service. We train our staff to treat patients like they would want their family treated. We also offer evening and Saturday hours for patient convenience.

We can often save our patients money since we participate with Medicare and many other insurances at our offices and at our surgery center. The surgery center is convenient and safe and the fees are typically lower than traditional hospital fees. I think these are the reasons for our growth.

Why did you want your own practice?

I had a vision for what I wanted my practice and surgery center to be—patient-centered and high tech and felt I needed the independence of owning my own practice to bring those dreams to reality.

You are one of the “most experienced cataract and refractive surgeons in Virginia,”
according to your Web site. How do you think your reputation in this field has affected your business?

I think that experience matters, especially when it comes to eye surgery since experience has a lot to do with surgical outcomes. I think that patients realize that I specialize in eye surgery and they feel comfortable and confident knowing that I have done thousands of cataract, refractive, LASIK and laser surgeries. This has helped to grow the practice.

What does a typical day look like for you?

In my clinic, I see a diverse group of patients who may have various eye diseases, including glaucoma, diabetes, cataracts and macular degeneration. At the surgery center, I spend most of my time performing cataract surgery but I also perform corneal transplants and glaucoma surgery as well as lasers for glaucoma and diabetes.

What is the most enjoyable aspect of your work?

The surgery. It is very gratifying to help a patient who can no longer see due to cataracts or  refractive errors and give them back their 20/20 vision.

What is the most challenging aspect?

Helping patients get through a bad diagnosis like a tumor or a sight-threatening disease such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.

Tell us about your career plans for the future.

I am one of the lucky few who gets to do something he loves every day. I plan to continue to offer patients the best eye care I possibly can and to continue to expand Harman Eye Center.

Why did you choose Lynchburg as your home?

I had the good fortune to meet Parker H. Lee, Jr., M.D., who practiced in Lynchburg. Dr. Lee and I hit it off immediately and I came to Lynchburg and purchased his practice in 1988.

When you aren’t at work, what do you enjoy doing for fun?

Reading, traveling with my wife and playing chess.

Age: 43

Occupation: President/CEO, Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce

Hometown: Huntington, WV

As President of the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, you have your finger on the pulse of business in Bedford County. How did you come to be in this role with the Chamber?

When this position became available five years ago, I was interested in the opportunity to work in the community where I was living and raising my family.  I have always worked in the not-for-profit industry and my past experience with organizations involved in economic development made this a good fit.

This is likely hard to summarize, but what does your job entail as President?

A better question would probably be what doesn’t my job entail? As the President/CEO, my main responsibility is the health and well-being of the organization. I am responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Chamber; however, I also serve as an ambassador to the community and as an advocate for the businesses in the area.

What are the benefits to being a member of the Bedford Area Chamber?

The benefits are numerous. Every business has different needs and different reasons for joining the Chamber. As a dynamic and versatile organization, it is our role to ensure we are providing the right benefits to meet those needs. We strive to provide outstanding services and benefits to our business communities which include numerous opportunities for building strong business relationships through networking, increased visibility, credibility, business resources, advocacy, economic development, education and much more.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job?

One of the most rewarding aspects of the job is working with the businesses and people in the community. It is exciting to see new and established businesses in the area thrive and grow. Being a part of the bigger picture and knowing that I can play a role in making our region a great place to live, work and play makes it all worthwhile.

What is the most challenging?

It is very challenging to stay focused on one area, issue or need when there are so many to fulfill. Being a leader in the business community can be stressful as the smallest detail can have an impact on an entire community. Personally, I have a problem with saying “no.” So, overextending myself can be a challenge.

What recent successes within the Bedford Area Chamber are you proud of?

On a personal level, I am very proud of the fact that I recently achieved my IOM. This designation is achieved by completing 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management through the Institute for Organization Management of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.  This four-year professional development program has provided me with invaluable knowledge and tools for meeting the needs of our business and community members.

From an organizational standpoint, I am extremely proud of the energy and enthusiasm that my staff brings to their jobs and the community each day. Their positive attitude, focus on our growing programs and services and excellent customer service have provided true benefit for our business communities during these challenging economic times.

Why do you enjoy living and working in Bedford County?

I enjoy living and working in Bedford County for many reasons—the beauty of the mountains and Smith Mountain Lake, the history, the wonderful change in seasons, the outdoor amenities, the friendliness of the community and the small-town atmosphere where you can raise a family. I have lived in Bedford County for almost 15 years, the longest I have ever lived in one place in my entire life, and I wanted my children to experience growing up in a place where they felt safe, made life-long friends and could call ”home.”

Name: Fred Armstrong

Age: 55

Occupation: Chairman and CEO, Wiley|Wilson

Hometown: Churchville, VA (near Staunton)

As Chairman and CEO of a company that offers design and professional consulting services to governmental, institutional, industrial and private clients, we are sure there is never a dull day. How did you come to be in this role at Wiley|Wilson?

I was elected by the Board of Directors in 2004 to serve as Chairman and CEO. I had previously served as a Project Manager, a Vice President and then as President and CEO. I began working at Wiley|Wilson in 1989 as a registered professional engineer in the Civil Engineering department. I have been focused on the management of the company since 2000 when we became an employee-owned company. We are now 100 percent employee-owned.

Wiley|Wilson is more than 100 years old. How do you carry on its traditions while striving towards “constant progress” as your tagline suggests?

The tradition of Wiley|Wilson is highly valued because, like in the television series “Cheers,” everybody knows your name. We are fortunate to have such a strong reputation but, as our tagline suggests, we cannot rely on the past to provide for our future.  We continue to develop new services and to serve new clients and new client types. We constantly evaluate what we are doing today and what services will be needed tomorrow.

As you mentioned earlier, one thing that makes Wiley|Wilson unique is the fact that it is completely employee-owned. What is the advantage of placing this kind of ownership on those within the company?

Employee ownership gives everyone a stake in the game. We are working for each other and not someone outside the company. Every employee contributes and every employee benefits.

Tell us about a recent project at Wiley|Wilson that you are proud of.

With over 200 projects commissioned all over the world every year, I am proud of many projects. If I had to tell about one project I am extremely proud of today, it would be the Center for Advanced Engineering and Research facility located in the New London Business & Technology Center. The primary reason for selecting this project is that it is located within Region 2000 and it is designed for a Region 2000 partner organization. Additionally, the long-term benefits to this region will be huge. As described in this magazine’s June edition, the completed facility will provide high tech jobs and many new and exciting research opportunities. We provided a full range of architecture, engineering and construction phase services and the project is on schedule for the ribbon cutting ceremony this month (August 25).

What is the best part about your job?

The best part of my job is visiting with a client when we have exceeded their expectations and hearing about how the Wiley|Wilson employees went above and beyond to make the project a success.

What is the most difficult part?

The most difficult part of my job is being notified after an interview for a project that we were not selected and we know that we can do the project and do it well. It is sometimes difficult to understand how we were not able to communicate our ability to do the job better than our competitors.

Wiley|Wilson seems to be part of Region 2000’s push towards innovation and technology-driven jobs. How would you say your company has contributed to the growth of the Lynchburg area?

We routinely recruit and hire engineers, architects and technicians with years of technical training. Our services require individuals who are innovative with their problem-solving skills and who can communicate solutions effectively with and to our clients. We use software that allows us to design in 3D (BIM, Building Information Modeling) and extract accurate and detailed project delivery time information from the model through 4D technology.  This is a huge leap forward in technology, far ahead of the traditional two-dimensional design of putting pen to paper. We are currently expanding into 5D design, which will improve our estimating quantity take-offs.

Community-wise, your resume shows you to be very involved. What are some examples of this?

I have been involved with a number of local not-for-profit organizations but there are three organizations that provide very different benefits to the community that I am now working with, supporting and enjoying. They are the Region 2000 Economic Development Council, United Way of Central Virginia and the Sedalia Center near Big Island. I am a big supporter of regional collaboration and each of these organizations work to support our entire area.

How do you like to relax? Do CEOs ever get to put their feet up?

I enjoy time at Smith Mountain Lake and “working” in the yard. These are the times that the phone is out of reach and the constant stream of information is temporarily suspended.

Age: 29

Occupation: Co-Owner and President of Southern Landscape Group, Inc

Hometown: Lynchburg, VA

According to your Web site, you founded Southern Landscape in 2003. Last year, it was named Small Business of the Year by the Lynchburg Regional Chamber. How have you grown your business to this point?

Growing a company requires a lot of time and dedication. Add a family into that mix and it makes it even trickier. My business partner, David Moon, and I are 100 percent focused on our vision and mission and that is the best thing we have ever done. Yes, it takes a lot of work, but then again, tell me something in life that is great and does not require work.

As Southern Landscape Group has grown, so has our team of landscapers. I quickly learned through being in business that our clients appreciated a company that was professional, knowledgeable and employed great people; therefore, I began to develop a team that reflected those traits. We recruit the best of the best to work with us and our expectations are high. There is no doubt that our team members have been the single most important piece to our continued growth.

Yes, it takes other things too like being prompt, providing quality work, follow-through and, of course, passion. The nice thing about those traits is if you recruit the right people then they come naturally.

Probably the last, most important factor to our continued growth has been standing behind our work.  No exceptions! That business principal is so simple, yet so many people do not get it. It actually surprises me how amazed a client is to see me when I go back to a job after several years to check our work and ensure it is performing like I told them it would. Certainly, I have made mistakes in the past and I will probably make a few more before I retire, but no matter the mistake, Southern Landscape Group will stand behind what is right for our clients. At the end of the day, that is what builds loyalty with our clients, not a low price.

Tell us about your background and education. Why did you choose to go into landscape design?

Since I was a youngster, I have always had a passion for being outdoors, tinkering with the landscape and making money. I remember renting a push mower from my dad at age nine for $2 so I could mow a lawn for $9. Little did I know at the time that this was only the beginning of what would cultivate into a career and company that I absolutely love.

I only applied to one college while in high school and that was Virginia Tech. They have an excellent Horticulture and Landscape Design program, so I knew that was the next step to continuing my career. Four years later with a degree in Horticulture/Landscape Design and a minor in Small Business Management, I was well on my way to building a solid landscape company in Central Virginia.

Designing and creating landscapes that people can enjoy forever is truly a passion. Every landscape is designed specifically for that client and their tastes. Being able to create a space that will provide memories with kids, grandkids, family and friends is very rewarding. I am looking forward to many more years designing and building amazing landscapes for the people of Central Virginia!

Southern Landscape Group seems to be putting a priority on being eco-friendly. How does your “green initiative” work?

Landscaping is pretty much where “green” began and it was long before the “green movement” waved over our country in the last five years. Being green is about more than using solar panels, recycling plastic and driving hybrid cars. Being green is planting trees and shrubs in your yard, it is creating compost from your annual pots each year, it is fertilizing responsibly, it is taking proper care of your landscape and handling drainage and erosion issues. What I want people to know about being “green” is that is does NOT require you to spend a lot of money. There are a lot of small things you can do to help the environment.

You are very active in getting the word out to the media about what your company is doing. Have you reaped the benefits of these efforts?

Yes. I am a believer in what our landscape teams design and create and I am proud of their accomplishments! We all work extremely hard to win national landscape awards. Our team members get certified in their respective fields and I enjoy making sure they are recognized for that.

Consistently being in the media has brought name recognition to Southern Landscape Group, starting back when I was in college. I want people to know that we are here, we will be here for a long time and we are doing great things in the community, from creating beautiful landscapes to our philanthropy.

How are you and your business plugged into the community at large?

I love Lynchburg and all that it has to offer! I love the fact that it is small enough to really get to know people, but large enough to be home to some great companies. Southern Landscape Group has had the opportunity to make our mark in the community by completing some showcase landscape projects like the Alan B. Pearson Cancer Center Healing Garden, Riverfront Park on Jefferson Street and very recently, the Center for Advanced Engineering and Research.

My business partner, David Moon, and I have given back financially as well as with time to different community organizations including the American Cancer Society, Interfaith Outreach Association, Centra Foundation, Brookville-Timberlake Volunteer Fire Department, Boonsboro Volunteer Fire Department, SPCA, SML Charity Home Tour, Junior League, Rush Homes, E.C. Glass Playbill, Children’s Miracle Network and countless other nonprofits. We absolutely LOVE being able to give back! It our contribution for being a part of the community that has been so good to us!

What is life like outside of work for you?

Life outside of work is great, just not enough of it! My wife, Merideth, and I have an 8-month-old daughter, Meg. Many of our summer weekends are spent at Smith Mountain Lake with our friends, family and clients. I tell most of my clients that being in the landscape business, I was forced to learn how to snow ski because winter is the only time I can step away from work long enough to vacation. While there is some truth to that, I do enjoy time at the beach. Other hobbies include playing tennis in a USTA league and flying. There is no better way for me to unwind than enjoying a nice scenic flight through the Blue Ridge Mountains or to the coast.

Fill in the Blank:

I love living in Central Virginia because we get to experience all four seasons (sometimes in one day) and our sense of community is so strong.

My favorite aspect of my job is meeting new people and learning something from them.

My future career goals include continuing to expand Southern Landscape Group into a company that extends beyond me; a company that is comprised of well-trained professionals working with a passion to create beautiful landscapes.

Age: 45

Occupation: Vascular Surgeon, VEIN & Cosmetic Solutions, Lynchburg

Hometown: Roanoke, VA

You founded what became Vein & Cosmetic Solutions 10 years ago. What drove your decision to focus your medical practice on this niche?

My fellowship in vascular surgery ended in 1997. What is now the standard technique of using lasers to treat vein disease was still in the FDA approval stage. I have always been fascinated with less invasive procedures, and along those lines, I brought the stent graft treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysms to Lynchburg.

Soon after that, I learned the laser vein technique and was one of the first, if not the first surgeon in Virginia, to begin using the technique. Patient demand grew at such a rate that I felt led to focus on vein care. Eventually, I was so busy providing the vein treatments that it just made sense to devote my practice to it entirely.

You grew up in Roanoke—how did you decide to come to Lynchburg?

That is a long story best summed up as “Divine Providence.”

Vein and Cosmetic Solutions offers a whole host of procedures, from vein to cosmetic treatments. Tell us about some of your office’s offerings.

I offer minimally invasive treatment of hemorrhoids using InfraRed Coagulation. This has filled a need similar to the vein treatment of a minimally invasive alternative to treat a very common problem. So many people suffer quietly with both varicose veins and hemorrhoids because the traditional surgical treatment is so invasive with a difficult and painful recovery.

We also carry the Obagi line of skin care products. These are pharmaceutical grade skin care products that are extremely effective at treating the effects of sun exposure and aging on the skin, as well as target acne to give patients a clear complexion. I also offer Botox Cosmetic injections for facial wrinkles, and have recently begun to offer a medically supervised weight loss program called “Ideal Protein.” So many of us have struggled with excess weight over the years, myself included, and this program has been amazing in the quick weight loss and overall health improvements I have seen in my patients.

Your practice seems like it was founded to bring better solutions to vein disorders to our area. What do you find rewarding about these kinds of procedures?

I absolutely love coming to work every day. I have the pleasure of seeing so many people’s lives changed for the better, whether it is the relief from pain and swelling of varicose veins or hemorrhoids, or just the added confidence that comes from eliminating unsightly spider veins on the legs or face, or from the improvement of their skin.

Fill in the blank:

My favorite thing about working in Lynchburg is the small town feel, and the overall strong Christian values present here.

The best part about Central Virginia is we have it all. Overall great weather, mountains, lakes, quick access to beaches, wonderful people. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.

My future goals for my career include continuing to bring state-of-the-art specialty care to my patients to improve their quality of life in the least painful way possible and to demonstrate and share my Christian faith through that practice.

Age: 28

Occupation: Executive Director, Lynch’s Landing

Hometown: Lynchburg, VA

You just stepped into your new role as Executive Director of Lynch’s Landing after a long stint as the Director of PR & Marketing at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. What prompted the career change?

Leading Lynch’s Landing is a unique opportunity to apply my communications, historic preservation and nonprofit leadership background with an organization focused on the revitalization of Downtown—something that I am incredibly passionate about. I have been responsible for tourism promotion, marketing and media relations, and event planning for a National Historic Landmark and have sought out opportunities to promote the city, serving on the Board of Directors for the James River Council for the Arts & Humanities and the Lynchburg Tourism Board. I am thrilled to step into this new role at this time!

Your new position with Lynch’s Landing will make you a public figure locally. Have you thought about how to handle the public praise and scrutiny that comes with being in the spotlight?

It’s my hope that the spotlight will be on the amazing work that downtown businesses and organizations are doing and will give Lynch’s Landing the opportunity to communicate just how unique and special downtown Lynchburg really is. These first few months are an important opportunity to bring attention and energy to downtown through inclusive and collaborative leadership.

Downtown Lynchburg is still undergoing a lot of change and revitalization. How will you keep things moving things forward in your new role?

I really look forward to implementing programs and marketing efforts that attract businesses, artists and entrepreneurs, and support and enable them to grow, improve and be successful. Lynch’s Landing will continue to support efforts to sustain and develop a critical mass of creative and successful businesses in downtown Lynchburg, which is now also the center of the new James River Arts and Culture District, by developing programs and events that attract people to Downtown.

Summer and early fall seems like Lynch’s Landing’s busiest season, thanks to Friday Cheers and Get! Downtown. Will you be handling the event planning for the organization as well?

It is a busy time and I will certainly hit the ground running! I will be responsible for these events along with an incredibly strong staff, Board of Directors and volunteer corps that has long been committed to the success of Friday Cheers and other events to promote Downtown Lynchburg. I will work closely with all of them to ensure that planning and implementation of this year’s events take a top priority, run smoothly and are fun for all involved!

Businesses and retailers downtown have made a big push to bring people downtown and make it more visible—how will you aid them in keeping this momentum going?

I think that right now, the most significant contribution that Lynch’s Landing can make to downtown revitalization is to be the voice and ambassador for Downtown Lynchburg. We need to clearly articulate what differentiates the rich, cultural resources and business community of downtown with other places to spend time and money. We will support Downtown Lynchburg as the place to go for authentic, high-quality shopping, dining and recreational experiences.  

Name one of your first goals as Executive Director of Lynch’s Landing.

In the first few months, I plan to conduct a “Listening Tour” with all downtown businesses, nonprofit organizations, City officials, civic groups and residential centers to seek feedback. I’d like to establish proactive communications with the media and ensure that Lynch’s Landing is the most current source of information about all things happening in downtown Lynchburg.

What would you like to see happen downtown in the next five years?

Lynchburg’s downtown is an amazing resource. It has a rich architectural identity, natural beauty and history—and has many people committed to supporting it.

Downtown Lynchburg is the center of our city and we need for people to continue to invest in it, whether through living, dining, shopping or volunteering. There is an electricity downtown. You feel it as you walk down Main Street and look up to see one of the newly renovated lofts or see a line of people waiting outside for a new eatery to open its doors for the first time.

When my husband and I moved here four years ago, we immediately fell in love with downtown. We want to hear people say things like, “You know, 10 years ago I couldn’t have imagined downtown would be/look like this.” I can’t wait to see downtown in five years and I’m excited to be a part of its future.

AGE: 49

JOB TITLE/COMPANY: Senior HR Specialist/Babcock & Wilcox (B&W)

HOMETOWN: Lynchburg, though “officially” I grew up in Bedford County

You seem like a true “Lynchburger”, having graduated from Lynchburg College and now working for B&W while serving in the community in a big way. What do you enjoy most about living in the Hill City?

I was raised just outside the city limits in Bedford County, graduating from Jefferson Forest High School. I attended Lynchburg College, receiving a B.A. degree in Business and English. About a year later, I started working at B&W. A couple of years after that, I moved into the city and have now lived here for about 23 years. I married an Amherst County native. I work in Campbell County. I think I have a connection with most every region in the area. And I think that’s the great thing about living in Lynchburg and Region 2000—the fact that cities, counties and townships work together to make Central Virginia a better place to live, learn and grow.

Tell us about your job at Babcock & Wilcox. What’s a typical day like for you?

B&W is a technical facility. Many of our employees are engineers, technicians, machinists or inspectors. I work in Human Resources and deal with people-issues most of the day. As with all jobs, there are good days and there are the not-so-good days. I have had the great opportunity to hire new employees and watch them grow. I’ve also had the unpleasant duty to let some of them go.

Currently, I manage the Company’s Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) program. It requires the submittal of reports, the investigation of claims and the training of employees and management on employment law. It also requires that I get out into the community. This is the part of my job that I enjoy the most. I often visit elementary schools, middle schools, high schools and colleges to talk about careers. We are Master Partners with Lynchburg City, Campbell County and Amherst County schools. We have a great relationship with the local community colleges and Lynchburg College. For many years, we have been one of the top five companies in giving to the United Way of Central Virginia Campaign.  

Rumor has it that you volunteer for 17 organizations in town! Tell us about some of your volunteer efforts.  

Seventeen sounds about right, maybe more. But I like to be busy. I am always a little hesitant to start naming them all for fear I might forget one. My first official board service was with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Virginia. I met a lot of wonderful and influential people through this experience. These friends recommended me to other boards. And from there it grew … and grew.

The board experience that has allowed me to affect the most people, however, has been the State Board for Community Colleges. Our decisions affect over 200,000 students across Virginia.  

We hear you also play an active role in your church. In what capacities do you serve there? 

I attend the church that my mother and father attended before me, that my mother’s father attended before her and that her grandfather helped found over 130 years ago. I am a Deacon and a Trustee. I am the Church Treasurer. I am a Sunday School teacher. And, occasionally, I attempt to sing on the choir. 

As a husband and father, how you manage to balance all of your giving back with your work and home life? 

Okay, this is a tough one. I probably don’t balance things as well as I would like to. I go to bed late and get up early. Most of my groups and committees are understanding when I am often the last to arrive and the first to leave. There have been many days where I have three or four or five meetings back-to-back. I can multi-task. However, I haven’t figured out how to be in two places at one time.

When they were younger, I often times took my daughters to board meetings or events. My wife and I make it a priority to support our daughters’ activities. I have coached their basketball teams and soccer teams. I taught them Tae Kwon do. Now, most of my coaching is done from the stands. But, despite my best plans, I do spend a good bit of time in the doghouse. 

You were recently honored with a 2011 Mayor’s Award of Excellence for your service to the Lynchburg community. What does this honor mean to you? 

It is nice to have others recognize your work and your passions. However, I feel that once someone says thank you, you have your reward. So, I guess that ethic makes me continue to work hard. Hopefully, I have helped a few folks along the way. 

Fill in the blank:

In 10 years, I want to be in a better position to help others financially, as well as with my time.

In 10 years, I hope that Lynchburg is a national leader in volunteerism and education.