The Virginia Chamber Foundation and Atlantic Union Bank are pleased to present the Inaugural Virginia Women’s Leadership Forum on August 26. This date holds special significance as it marks the 105th anniversary of the adoption of the 19th Amendment – a fitting day to recognize the impactful achievements of women who have shaped, and continue to shape, our Commonwealth. 

Come reflect on important progress, highlight influential voices, and inspire the next generation of leaders. 

Are you interested in learning more about the upcoming Women in Business Industry Council? Email Eleana Legree at e.legree@vachamber.com to learn more.

RESOURCES

View the Full Agenda (Print Version): LINK

View the print program: LINK

Get to know our speakers and panelists: LINK

HIGHLIGHTS 

• Thought-provoking conversations with women leading in business, government, and public service. 

• Personal leadership stories and real-world lessons from trailblazers across Virginia. 

• Networking opportunities with professionals, advocates, and changemakers committed to equity and impact. 

• Celebration of women’s civic and economic contributions, past and present. 

LUNCHEON KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

• The Honorable Jennifer Kiggans – Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District Representative 

• The Honorable Jennifer McClellan – Virginia’s 4th Congressional District Representative 

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES 

For sponsorship opportunities, contact our Investor Relations Team at eventsTeam@vachamber.com or m.wachur@vachamber.com 

TOPICS

Pathways to the C-Suite: Women Leading at the Top

In a business world that’s still catching up on gender equity at the highest levels, this panel brings together some of Virginia’s top female business leaders. These accomplished professionals will share their personal career journeys — the pivotal moments, hard-earned lessons, and strategies that propelled them forward. From overcoming bias to creating work-life balance, navigating career pivots, and mentoring the next generation, this discussion will offer an honest, empowering look at what it takes to lead at the highest level.

Whether you’re an emerging leader or an established professional, this conversation offers inspiration, practical advice, and a powerful reminder that leadership can — and should — look like you.

Ideas and Enterprise: Women Leaders in the Small Business Economy

Across industries and communities, women-led small and mid-size businesses are shaping the future of Virginia’s local economies, creating jobs, and driving innovation. This panel brings together women leading small and mid-size companies to share their experiences starting, building, and growing successful businesses, from securing capital and navigating regulation to scaling operations and balancing risk.

Panelists will discuss the challenges and opportunities women face in the entrepreneurial and small business landscape, highlight lessons learned, and offer practical advice for aspiring and established leaders.

Reflecting on Personal Stories of Professional Women

We will break out into small groups to offer attendees an opportunity for more personal discussions of their experiences in the workforce. These small-group conversations are designed to create space for authentic dialog among our forum attendees. There will be an opportunity, time permitting, for the table leaders to share notable highlights from the breakout sessions.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER CONVERSATION

Keynote Speakers:

• The Honorable Jennifer Kiggans – Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District Representative

• The Honorable Jennifer McClellan – Virginia’s 4th Congressional District Representative

LOCATION

The Altria Theater 6 N Laurel Street Richmond, VA 23220

PARKING

There are several parking options near the theater entrance. The closest and most convenient is: VCU West Main Street Deck 801 West Main Street Richmond, Virginia 23284

• Payment: Cashless
• Distance from Altria Theater: 1 minute walking time
• Handicapped Parking: Available
• Deck Clearance Height: 7’6″ 2

NOTE

There are several additional parking garages and street parking available, and Altria’s website is a helpful resource: https://www.altriatheater.com/visit/directionsparking

CHECK IN

There are no physical tickets distributed. Simply check in upon arrival at our registration tables and you will receive your name tag which is your ticket for the day.

DRESS

The dress is business attire. Our event’s theme color is “Chamber of Commerce Blueprint Virginia 2035 Light Blue” if you’re feeling inspired to coordinate.