Retiring Henrico County Manager Virgil Hazelett was honored today by Virginia Commonwealth University’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for his contributions to government and community. Hazelett was one of six individuals and groups honored as part of the eighth annual "Excellence in Virginia Government Awards" ceremony at the Richmond Marriott.

Hazelett earned the lifetime achievement award, signifying his four decades of leadership and service to Henrico County, as well as his management practices and efficiency that brought national recognition to the county. Hazelett, who has served as county manager for nearly 20 years, oversees a budget of more than $140 million and a workforce of more than 10,000. Henrico was recognized as the first locality in the nation to receive a AAA bond rating after the federal government’s bond rating downgrade.

Hazelett will retire in mid-January and be replaced by Deputy County Manager John Vithoulkas.