LEAD’s 2015 Leader Award Presented to Mark Johnson

HAMPTON ROADS

Mark Johnson, Vice President & Community Development Manager at SunTrust Bank and a 2004 graduate of LEAD Hampton Roads, recently received  the Distinguished Leader Award from the National Association of Leadership Programs (ALP). Johnson was one of only 15 people in the country to receive this award in 2015. 

 The award, presented on an annual basis, is designed to recognize the exceptional community leadership involvement of LEAD program graduates who have made significant and notable contributions for the betterment of their communities. 

LEAD Hampton Roads, Executive Director, Angela Blackwell Carter commented, “LEAD was proud to nominate Mark for this special award.  He is known for his big heart, unlimited energy and an uncanny ability to connect regional economic initiatives with regional funders.  He has a gift for making visions become reality.”  Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce President & CEO, Bryan K. Stephens, said, “We at the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce are exceptionally proud of Mark Johnson and delighted he was recognized with this national level award.  Mark’s exemplary, proactive community engagement is a sterling example of kind of civic leadership we need more of in Hampton Roads.  Mark Johnson is a one of a kind role model for all who want to serve.”

When asked about his award Johnson stated, “As professionals, we bring so many talents and resources to the table and I think LEAD is that one vehicle that we are able to deploy those talents equally and in a unified fashion across the region.”

Johnson’s efforts have been recognized through several awards, such as the Hampton Roads Inside Business Top 75 Power List (Person to Watch), the Urban League of Hampton Roads Silver Star Award, which recognizes leaders who have made a difference in their communities and the 2014 SunTrust Bank Performance Excellence Award.  He also was the lead visionary in the creation, planning, and organization of SunTrust Bank, Hampton Roads first annual of Diversity and Inclusion Awards Celebration in the Greater Hampton Roads Community in 2011.

He resides in Virginia Beach with his wife, Shonder and his two children Imajae’ and Mark II.