Kayla Brundick has been named social media manager with Oyster Pointer. She will be responsible for facilitating the flow of internet traffic to the publication’s homepage, using feature stories, columns and photos to foster interest in the site. Brundick has been writing with Oyster Pointer since 2022. Several of her features have been recognized by the Association of Community Publishers with awards for content.
Claire Lorio has joined United Way of the Virginia Peninsula as director of development. She will be responsible for building partnerships and advancing fundraising efforts across the community. With more than three decades of experience in nonprofit advancement and leadership, Lorio will work directly with Charvalla West, United Way’s president and CEO, and the United Way team.
Groundbreaking of the new Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom Library took place in July. The new 51,144-square-foot space, scheduled for completion in 2028, will be nearly three times larger than the current Grissom Library and will feature expanded collections, makerspaces, modern technology, collaborative learning spaces, study rooms and flexible areas for programs and events. The library will serve as a vibrant community hub where residents can learn, create, connect and thrive while helping revitalize the Denbigh corridor. Participating in the ground-breaking were (from left) John Eley III, Newport News council member; Robert Coleman, Newport News council member; Cleon Long, Newport News council member; Phillip Jones, Newport News mayor; Anita Jennings, director, Newport News Public Library; Deloris Thomas, member, Newport News Public Library board of trustees; Curtis Bethany, Newport News vice mayor; Rasheena Harris, member, Newport News School Board; and Alan Archer, Newport News city manager.
Kimberly D. Bracy has been appointed the inaugural Newport News Fire Department (NNFD) communications manager to oversee the department’s strategic communications program and help build its newly formed Community Education and Engagement Division. Formerly communications and media relations manager for the City of Newport News, Bracy is an award-winning communications veteran with more than 30 years of experience leading strategic communications, public affairs, media relations, crisis communications, marketing, executive communications and community engagement initiatives. In her new role, Bracy will lead the NNFD’s communications strategy, oversee media relations, digital communications, public information, and community outreach, while expanding fire and life safety education initiatives. She will also play a pivotal role in developing the department’s new division, strengthening relationships between NNFD and its residents.
Philip Herman will lead the Virginia Peninsula commercial banking team of Atlantic Union Bank. Based in the bank’s Newport News office, Hermann brings more than two decades of banking experience. He most recently served as a lead commercial relationship manager with Wells Fargo. A graduate of Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Hermann earned a master’s degree in public administration and a Bachelor of Science degree from Morgan State University.
Heather Hughes Photography, owned and operated by Heather Ostermaier, has been named the recipient of the 2026 CoVaBIZ Best of Business Award with a bronze recognition in the best commercial photographer category. Heather Hughes Photography has been in business since 2003.
Bob McKenna, president and CEO of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce (VPCC), has been named Top CEO–Gold Level of the 2026 CoVaBIZ Best of Business Awards. McKenna has been president and CEO of the VPCC since 2018.
