BUSINESS PERSON of the Year J
effrey Szyperski is so much more than a banker. He’s a community leader and a devoted family man. However, it was his longtime leadership at Chesapeake Bank that garnered him the honor as the Lancaster by the Bay 2018 Business Person of the Year. Jeff serves as Chair, President and CEO, Chesapeake Financial Shares Inc. and Chesapeake Bank and Chair and CEO, Chesapeake Wealth Management. He is a board member and is chair-elect of the prestigious American Bankers Association. He is the immediate past chair and a current board member of the Virginia Bankers Association (VBA), and a member of the board’s Executive Committee. Locally, Jeff has been the director of many nonprofit boards and chairs the Lancaster County Economic Development Authority. He is a member of the Steering Committee and founder of Lead Northern Neck an initiative designed to strengthen community leadership within the region by equipping citizens to take civic action. He is known for inspiring our community to continually move forward. His impact on the community includes his support of local
businesses and leadership to bring economic development to Lancaster County. Jeff is also known for his ability to relate to people from all walks of life. He is well known for his friendly smile and upbeat personality, as well as his willingness to lend an ear and or hand to local causes and priorities. He is known to be a first rate banker and community leader but most importantly an outstanding person. His business peers refer to him as unassuming, effective, altruistic and motivating all while not neglecting his family. Jeff lives in Weems with his wife Wende. He was recognized for his achievements and presented with the award in front of community members on February 10 at the Lancaster by the Bay Chamber’s Annual Membership Meeting and Dinner held at Indian Creek Yacht and Country Club. The chamber wishes to thank Jeff for his leadership efforts and covey their appreciation for keeping our community viable and headed toward the future. n
VOLUNTEER of the Year A
talented musician and 2001 graduate of Lancaster High School, Justin Burke graduated from Radford University with a degree in business. He moved to Folly Beach, South Carolina and spent several years developing his musical abilities, making a name for himself in the music industry. He started his bluegrass band James Justin & Co. in 2010, as lead vocalist and guitarist, and toured the country while also trying his hand at dairy farming. Having grown up in the Northern Neck, his love for the water blossomed, helping him return to his roots. Justin decided to move back to his home town of Weems and with his wife Melissa joined the family business, Burkes Fine Jewelers in Kilmarnock. He brought with him innovative techniques, designing pieces for clients all over the country, including the local favorite “Bridge to Paradise.” The couple recently helped launch a spin-off location of Burkes in Urbanna – The Fin & Pearl – named after their two children. Nominated for the Lancaster by the Bay Chamber of Commerce Board in 2015, Justin readily accepted and has since contributed to the success of nearly all of the Chamber’s events. “His enthusiasm for the Chamber, his ideas and creativity has elevated our Chamber events. He has a talent for bringing in new ideas and implementing them. His ‘hands-on’ total involvement include taking part in planning, set-up and clean-up”, said Chamber executive director Anne
Paparella. Justin has said his mission in the Chamber is to elevate community and economic growth in Lancaster County. Justin’s musical talents and entertainment insights have contributed to the success of several Chamber events, and are still a significant component of his life. He performs locally and regionally with JJ & Co., as well as with his newer band Pretty Heavy, making new fans at every show. Justin’s college sport Ultimate Frisbee has caught wind in the Northern Neck with his team NoNUFA: Northern Neck Ultimate Frisbee Alliance (The Fried Oysters). Justin says that his greatest achievement is his family. He enjoys coaching his son Fin in baseball and soccer, and making his 1-year old daughter Pearl smile and laugh. The Executive Board unanimously selected Justin Burke as their Chamber Volunteer of the Year for his enthusiasm, creativity and active involvement in the chamber and its events. The Board presented Burke with his award at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Dinner Saturday, February 10 at Indian Creek Yacht and Country Club. The Lancaster by the Bay Chamber of Commerce strives to promote the economic vitality of its members, encourage economic development, and to enhance the quality of life in the community within which we live. n
www.lancasterva.com
13