CHRISTIANSBURG – The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce recently recognized its 2026 Forty under 40 recipients during the annual Forty under 40 Awards Reception, held at The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center.
The Forty under 40 program recognizes emerging leaders who are making an impact through their careers, service, leadership, and commitment to the future of Montgomery County and the New River Valley. Recipients represent a wide range of industries, organizations, and community roles, highlighting the strength and depth of young professional leadership throughout the region.
“At the Chamber, we believe it is important to recognize the individuals who are not only succeeding in their work today, but also helping shape the future of our community,” said Steve Baffuto, President & CEO of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s Forty under 40 recipients reflect the talent, dedication, and leadership that continue to move Montgomery County and the New River Valley forward.”
The 2026 Forty under 40 Awards Reception brought together honorees, employers, family members, community leaders, and Chamber members to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s class. Each recipient was recognized for their professional achievements, leadership potential, and contributions to the region.
This year’s recipients include: Aaron Gleaves, Aaron Wesley, Ann Marie O’Reilly, Antonio Bolden, Ashleigh Roop, Allison Weeks, Billie Quesenberry, Brighton Williams, Carley Andrews, Carrie Williams, Courtney Corriere, David Gray, Devin LaPuasa, Emma Baker, Evan Hull, Heather Freeman, Jacklyn Phillips, James Lofton, James Ulmer, Jami Frazier Grafsky, Jenna Williams, Jillian Waller, Jo Keeler, Kaylan Sheally, Leah Simmerman, Lindsey Boyer, Lindsey Monroe, Lucas Brugh, Lyndsi Hale, Meghan Kuczmarski, Mike Vellines, Molly Parrish, Natalee Garrett, Shameka Bolden, Shannon Collins, Shelby Gwinn, Sierra Parker, Stephanie Jackson, Suzanna Gardner and Zachary Harman.
The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce thanks the sponsors who made the 2026 Forty under 40 celebration possible, including Presenting Sponsor Mountain Valley Pipeline; Diamond Sponsors LewisGale Hospital Montgomery and Mountain Lake Lodge; Champion Sponsor Brown Edwards; Advocate Sponsor Freedom First; and Promote Sponsors Ignite Leadership + HR Group and The Inn at Virginia Tech and Skelton Conference Center.
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
