Henrico EDA honors county businesses, individuals during inaugural Excellence in Action Awards

, and Citizen Staff Reports

May 14, 2025 . 2:57 PM

2 min read

Winners of the Henrico EDA's Excellence in Action Awards gathered with EDA board members and county officials following the event. (Courtesy Henrico EDA)

During the inaugural Excellence in Action Awards May 13 celebrating Henrico businesses, the Henrico Economic Development Authority honored seven county businesses and individuals.

Award-winners were:

• Small Business Excellence Award – Brook's Stitch and Fold; Leo Lantz Construction; the award recognizes businesses that have demonstrated outstanding achievements in innovation, customer service and community impact.

• Community Advancement Award – Fitness DAWGS; the award recognizes a business or organization that actively contributes to workforce development, environmental sustainability, economic mobility, or community empowerment.

• Economic Impact Award – Alfa Laval, Inc.; the award recognizes a business that has significantly contributed to economic growth, job creation, and the overall prosperity of Henrico’s economy and beyond.

• People’s Choice Award – Parlour Salon; the award recognizes an individual or business that has captured the hearts and support of the community, evidenced by an overwhelming number of public award nominations.

• Emerging Leader Award – A-Z Dental Art Studio; the award recognizes a rising business professional or entrepreneur making a significant impact early in his or her career.

• Visionary Business Leader of the Year – Todd Mawyer, president/CEO, TK Promotions; the award recognizes a person whose bold leadership and forward-thinking strategies are shaping the future of their industry and community.

Henrico EDA Managing Director Ebonie Atkins (at left) moderates a discussion between American Paper founder and CEO Lydia Work, Henrico County Manager John Vithoulkas and Metropolitan Business League President and CEO Floyd Miller, II. (Courtesy Henrico EDA)

The awards are designed to celebrate Henrico’s boldest leaders, businesses, and community partners who are driving innovation and creating opportunity. Award-winners were among the businesses nominated by the public during a nomination period.

“It’s an honor to support these extraordinary individuals and organizations in Henrico whose work embodies a spirit of excellence,” said Edward S. Whitlock, III, chair of the Henrico EDA Board of Directors. “The remarkable energy and dedication they display are further testament to why Henrico remains the 'Home of the Extra Mile.'”

During Fiscal Year 2025, which ends June 30, Henrico County businesses and organizations have added more than 1,400 new jobs, and the county has secured more than $8 billion in project investments, according to EDA officials.

The awards event and luncheon was held at The Westin Richmond hotel and also featured a panel discussion with Henrico County Manager John Vithoulkas, Metropolitan Business League President and CEO Floyd Miller, II and American Paper founder and CEO Lydia Work.