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NRV Leaders Named to Virginia Business Power List

New River Valley, VA – Several leaders from Virginia’s New River Valley have been recognized in the 2026-27 Virginia 500 Power List, an annual publication by Virginia Business that highlights many of the Commonwealth’s most influential leaders across business, education, manufacturing, healthcare, government, nonprofits, and other key sectors.

Released in September of 2026, the list reflects months of editorial research. According to Virginia Business, leaders are selected based on factors such as career achievements, organizational impact, scope of responsibility, company performance, philanthropy, and contributions to Virginia’s economy and communities. The publication serves as a snapshot of individuals holding positions of significant influence throughout the Commonwealth.

Leaders with ties to Virginia’s New River Valley recognized in the 2026-27 Virginia 500 include:

  • Marcus Minkkinen | Manufacturing | Vice President and General Manager, Volvo Trucks New River Valley Plant (Pulaski)
  • Bret S. Danilowicz | Education | President, Radford University (Radford)
  • Elizabeth McClanahan | Nonprofits & Philanthropy | CEO and President, Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (Montgomery County)
  • James Franklin | Arts, Entertainment & Sports | Head Football Coach, Virginia Tech (Montgomery County)
  • Timothy Sands | Education | President, Virginia Tech (Montgomery County)

The recognition highlights the depth of leadership found across the New River Valley’s manufacturing, education, nonprofit, and athletic sectors. These leaders help drive innovation, economic growth, workforce development, and community impact throughout the region and the Commonwealth.

Learn more about the leaders, industries, and communities that make Virginia’s New River Valley a great place to live, work, and innovate at www.NewRiverValleyVA.org.

Read more about the selection process here.

Discover all the Virginia 500 Power List here (paywall).

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world-class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

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