Jennifer Daknis has been honored as a Forbes Top Women Wealth Advisors Best-in-State for 2026. She has also received the Ascent Level recognition, ranking her among the top 20 percent advisors (out of 32,000) at LPL Financial, the largest independent broker dealer in the nation, as reported by Financial Planning magazine. With more than 27 years of experience in the industry, Daknis focuses on providing comprehensive wealth strategies to individuals, families and corporate clients.
Langley Federal Credit Union has been named a 2026 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winner, making it one of only 78 organizations worldwide to receive this distinction. The award is based on measurable, sustained employee engagement, using results from Gallup’s survey used across more than 160 countries. Langley reports an engagement ratio of 24 engaged employees for every one actively disengaged, surpassing this year’s winner average. Gaurav Bhatia is Langley’s president and CEO.
Nicole R. Guajardo, Joseph F. Verser, Esq. and Lynn Taylor have been named to the Riverside Regional Medical Center Board of Directors. Guajardo is vice provost of academic success and engagement at Christopher Newport University. Verser is partner in the law firm of Heath Verser. Taylor is chief executive officer of Zel Technologies.
Tech Center Research Park has announced its Summer Concert Series at the drillfield. The series includes: Buck Shot, May 28; Anthony Rosano & The Conqueroos, June 11; Bobby Blackhat Productions, June 25; Island Boy Band, July 9; The Finns, August 27; Yellow Dubmarine, September 10; Live Wire AC/DC Tribute Band, September 24; and Brasswind, October 15.
The Warwick at City Center Rotary Club companion group had an insightful meeting with speaker Kimberly Faith, (standing, fourth from left) respiratory care provider and the lead pulmonary provider at Bon Secours Hospital, updating the club on pulmonary issues particularly in women over 50.
The United Way of the Virginia Peninsula hosted its Inaugural Legacy Society Induction & Impact Awards celebration in February honoring leaders whose generosity and vision continue to shape the future of the Virginia Peninsula through their legacy, leadership and love for community. Shown above left are (from left) Steve Barrs, president, C.A. Barrs Contractor, Inc., recipient of the Legend in the Making Award; Charvālla West, president and CEO, United Way; and Don Roberts, master of ceremonies. Shown above right are (from left) Xavier Beale, vice president, human resources, and Edmond E. Hughes, executive vice president and chief human resources officer, representing Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of HII, recipient of the Changing Our World Award; West; Conway Sheild III, attorney, Kaufman & Canoles, recipient of the Living Legend Award; and Sylvia Weinstein Craft, publisher and editor of Oyster Pointer, recipient of the Architype of Inspiration Award.
Top February agents for Coldwell Banker Traditions’ Peninsula office were Lelani Clayton, top listing agent, and Sandra Hood, top selling agent. Clayton was top listing agent for the overall company.
Ri’Shawn Bassette has joined the City of Newport News communication department as press secretary supporting the mayor and city council. Bassette brings a background in government communications, media relations and public affairs, most recently serving in the media relations division of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, where he led high-visibility communications efforts and supported crisis and emergency response messaging. He also brings experience from Virginia State University and News 3 in Hampton Roads. Bassette will serve as primary media contact for the legislative branch of city government.
Top March agents for CENTURY 21 Nachman Realty’s Peninsula office were Evelyn Staton, top listing agent; Jamie Coldsnow, top selling and producing agent; and Chaz Fiscella, top closing and referral agent.
Peninsula Community College (VPCC) celebrated the opening of its newest training facility, Newport News Trades Center, with a ribboncutting in March. Located at 520 21st Street in Newport News, the facility will allow workforce training opportunities across the Virginia Peninsula, preparing more than 400 students annually for high-demand careers in maritime trades and residential construction. Officials indicate these fields are critical to the region’s economy and national defense priorities. VPCC established the center through a partnership with the City of Newport News and the Maritime industrial base. Shown are Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones and VPCC President Dr. Towuanna Porter Brannon (seventh and eighth from left) leading the ribbon cutting.
Luter Link, an event designed to help students engage and network with local business professionals, took place in April in the David Student Union Ballroom at Christopher Newport University (CNU). Hosted by the Luter Student Advisory Board (LSAB), this initiative aims to foster meaningful professional relationships and provide students with valuable career insights. Program participants and committee members include (from left) Benjamin Hager, management and marketing major, Class of ’27; Dr. Lisa Spiller, CNU distinguished professor of marketing, emerita; Patrick Lassiter, former president of the CNU’s Captains Consulting Club and associate business process analyst, Dominion Energy, Class of ’25; Christian Blosser, LSAB outreach chair; Cleopatra Barr, former outreach chair, Luter Student Advisory Board and director of operations and creative, Rau Wolf Marketing, Class of ’25; Alexandra “Lexie” Harris, former vice president, Luter Student Advisory Board and talent acquisition specialist, Kitty Hawk Technologies, Class of ’25; and Dr. Anna Hickey, CNU Dean, Luter School of Business.
Cox Mobile, Cox Communications’ mobile phone service, has awarded David from Boys & Girls Clubs of the Virginia Peninsula (B&GCVP) the winner of the $25,000 Grand Prize scholarship in this year’s Phone Case Design Contest, held in partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (B&GCA). David’s winning artwork was selected by a panel of judges from Cox Communications and B&GCA, including 2025-2026 National Youth of the Year Ximena and alumnus Mario Lopez. David’s club will also receive a $25,000 technology grant from Cox to provide a safe, creative space where club youth can access the internet and explore emerging tools and technology. Shown are David’s winning entry (left) and members presenting grand prize winner David with his $25,000 scholarship, from left: Colleen Langner, Cox EVP and chief residential officer; Frank Sanchez, B&GC of America’s national VP of sports, entertainment and community affairs; Hal Smith, president and CEO of B&GCVP; and Jeff Merritt, Cox Hampton Roads market vice president.
