Kelly Cordova: Women in Leadership Award Winner

Virginia wesleyan’s Kelly Cordova Honored with Women in Leadership Award

Virginia Business magazine has recognized Kelly Cordova, MBA ’21, as a leading woman executive in the Commonwealth, celebrating her professional achievements and dedication to community impact. The award was presented on October 6 at a ceremony held at the historic Jefferson Hotel in Richmond.

Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU) has extended its congratulations to Cordova, currently serving as Chief of Staff and vice President for Strategic Initiatives. The annual Women in Leadership Awards acknowledge women who demonstrate extraordinary leadership and influence across business, education, and community initiatives throughout Virginia. honorees are selected based on thier professional success, civic involvement, mentorship efforts, and commitment to dismantling barriers within their respective fields.

“Each of these transformational leaders has demonstrated remarkable integrity and a lasting impact on their communities and on Virginia as a whole,” stated a representative from virginia Business. “We are proud to recognise their achievements and contributions.”

Did you know? – Virginia Business has presented the Women in Leadership Awards annually as 2019, recognizing outstanding female leaders across the state. The awards aim to highlight contributions to Virginia’s economic and community landscape.

In her role at VWU, Cordova spearheads the University’s strategic objectives, focusing on key areas such as advancement, marketing and communications, institutional research, and government relations.Her work is centered on aligning programs, fostering partnerships, and implementing initiatives that directly support VWU’s core mission and ensure its continued growth.

Cordova’s journey with VWU began in 2020, following a five-year tenure within the University’s Center for Advancement, where she provided support to the senior vice president and president in various leadership capacities.Prior to joining Virginia wesleyan, she dedicated six years to Operation Smile, an international medical nonprofit organization. There, she led a team of 15 program coordinators and actively participated in medical missions providing free cleft lip and palate surgeries to children in developing nations.

Pro tip: – Networking and mentorship are key components of leadership success. Cordova’s selection highlights the importance of supporting and empowering other women in professional settings.

A proud alumna of VWU, Cordova holds a Master of Business administration degree from the University and a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Virginia Commonwealth University.

“Kelly exemplifies the vrey best of Virginia Wesleyan University-visionary leadership,strategic insight,and an unwavering commitment to service,” said VWU President Scott D. Miller.”This well-deserved honor reflects not only her personal accomplishments but also the growing impact of our University across the Commonwealth.”

Cordova’s accomplishments, along with those of her fellow honorees, are highlighted in the October issue of Virginia Business and are available online at VirginiaBusiness.com.

Reader question: – What qualities do you believe are most essential for effective leadership in today’s rapidly changing world? Share your thoughts!