It is with mixed emotions that we announce Holly Lesko's upcoming retirement in mid-January. We are excited for the next steps along her journey, yet we are sad she will be leaving the Commission (again!). Holly has a unique history with the agency that may not have been replicated anywhere else. She first came to the organization as a planner, and after many years of service she left to pursue opportunities in private sector consulting and higher education. While she was in other professional roles she served as the citizen representative to the Commission for the town of Blacksburg. In her service to the board she ultimately served as Chair from 2010-2012. Several years later Holly returned as an employee of the agency during COVID, working tirelessly on the Business Continuity Team (BCT). Following the BCT efforts, the agency worked with partners to develop the NRV Recovery Ecosystem, a program Holly has led since its inception over three years ago. In her numerous years with the agency in a multitude of roles Holly has always demonstrated a passion for service, a genuine connection with people across the region, and a commitment to improving lives. We wish her all of the best!
