Strengthen the Spirit of Virginia
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.
