Strengthen the Spirit of Virginia
By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:
First Citizen of Virginia Beach - Barbara Lewis
WHEREAS, Barbara Lewis’ life journey led her to Virginia Beach in 1954 where she began mentoring and uplifting women leaders; and,
WHEREAS, in the 1960’s, Ms. Lewis taught at a college-level finishing school, educating women on professional dress and interviewing skills for fifteen years; and,
WHEREAS, Barbara Lewis founded Charm Associates in 1976, a Virginia Beach landmark renowned for developing social skills, grace, and etiquette in young women; and,
WHEREAS, desiring to establish a network of outstanding businesswomen, Barbara Lewis founded the Outstanding Professional Women’s Awards in 1982 to recognize Hampton Road’s top businesswomen for their exemplary achievements; and,
WHEREAS, Barbara Lewis sold Charm Associates in 2004 to pursue a new dream – Town Center City Club, a premier venue for business meetings, corporate events, fundraisers, wedding, retirements and other special events; and,
WHEREAS, Barbara Lewis continues to make an indelible mark on Virginia Beach and the Commonwealth as a business leader, community supporter, cultural arts philanthropist, and champion for women in business; and,
WHEREAS, Barbara Lewis exemplifies the leadership, integrity, care and commitment to community that strengthens the Spirit of Virginia by making it the best place to live, work, and raise a family;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize BARBARA LEWIS as FIRST CITIZEN OF VIRGINIA BEACH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA and call this observance to the attention of our citizens.