Recognizing achievements of the past while inspiring greatness in the future.
About SWVA Business Hall of Fame
The Southwest Virginia Business Hall of Fame is the region’s “Biggest Night in Business”- honoring the region’s outstanding leaders of the free enterprise system and providing youth with inspiration to succeed.
This prestigious gala event brings together business leaders, community members, and supporters of Junior Achievement of Southwest Virginia to recognize the achievements of our laureates and entrepreneurs, while also raising critical funds to support programs that empower thousands of local students with financial literacy, career readiness, and entrepreneurial skills.
Selection Committee
Introduction into the SWVA Business Hall of Fame is a prestigious award and an invitation to become part of Southwest Virginia’s history. Laureates and Entrepreneurs are chosen by a committee of business leaders and past honorees based upon criteria that they have outstanding leadership in their industry and have played a significant role in enhancing the quality of life in Southwest Virginia.
Thank you to the 2026 Selection Committee-
- Greg Feldmann
- Kevin Bloomfield
- Bob Archer
- Jack Avis
- Leon Harris
- Bill Lemon
- Victor Iannello
- Raymond Smoot
- NL Bishop
- David Poteet
- John Lugar
- Kat Pascal
About Junior Achievement
Reimagining Education to Expand Opportunity.
Junior Achievement of Southwest Virginia prepares young people to confidently navigate the world of work, money, and opportunity.
Through hands-on experiences in financial literacy, career and workforce readiness, and entrepreneurship, JA connects students with the skills, knowledge, and real-world perspectives they need to make informed decisions about their futures. Our programs go beyond the classroom—helping young people build confidence, explore career pathways, think critically, and understand how the choices they make today can shape what comes next.
We believe preparing the next generation is a community effort. By bringing together students, educators, businesses, and local professionals, we help young people see what is possible for their futures while strengthening the talent pipeline and economic vitality of Southwest Virginia.
The Business Hall of Fame is an extension of that mission—celebrating the leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who have helped shape our region while inspiring the next generation to imagine how they might shape it next.
