Chamber Blog
The Business Women’s Round Table (BWRT) Women of Excellence Awards is the Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce’s premier celebration of the women leaders, mentors, and trailblazers who are redefining what it means to lead in our region. This signature event honors those who don’t just succeed in their respective fields, but who actively pull others up along the way, ensuring the future of Charlottesville’s business community is as bright as it is inclusive.
On Thursday, March 19, 2026, the community gathered at Common House to recognize these dynamic professionals. The afternoon was more than just a ceremony; it was a testament to the power of mentorship, the grit of emerging talent, and the enduring legacy of women who have paved the way for generations to come.
This year, we are proud to highlight three extraordinary awardees whose work at the Community Investment Collaborative (CIC) and beyond has left an indelible mark on our community.
2026 Women of Excellence Award Winners
- BWRT Woman of Excellence: Teira R. Farley, Chief Operating Officer, Community Investment Collaborative and owner of
The Coloring Book
- BWRT Woman of Excellence: Teira R. Farley, Chief Operating Officer, Community Investment Collaborative and owner of
- Distinguished Mentor Award: Ariel Vaughan, Success Coach, It's Time to Be You
- Emerging Professional Award: Yvonnia Bryant, Development & Communications Manager, Community Investment Collaborative
Yvonnia Bryant: Emerging Professional Award
The Emerging Professional Award recognizes an up-and-coming leader who is breaking barriers and exhibiting exceptional talent early in her career. As the Manager on the Development and Communications team at the Community Investment Collaborative (CIC), Yvonnia Bryant embodies this spirit perfectly.
A Charlottesville native, Yvonnia brings a depth of local knowledge that can’t be taught. Since joining CIC four years ago, she has risen from Coordinator to Manager, now leading the organization’s entrepreneur storytelling and annual fundraising with a blend of precision and heart. Beyond her desk, Yvonnia is a force in the community. She serves on the board of Computers 4 Kids (C4K), where she once worked and now mentors students in launching their own small businesses. Whether she is advising entrepreneurs on social media strategy at a resource fair or joining the Minority Business Alliance, Yvonnia leads with a grounded, genuine presence that makes everyone in the room feel seen.
Ariel Vaughan: Distinguished Mentor Award
The Distinguished Mentor Award is reserved for a woman who has shown a powerful, long-term commitment to the professional evolution of others. Ariel Vaughan is a mentor who transforms lives through what her peers call "a quiet storm" of influence—reserved, yet incredibly powerful.
Ariel’s impact is best described by those she has guided through their most vulnerable seasons. Whether serving as a business advisor at the Small Business Development Center or working as an independent entrepreneur, Ariel has a rare gift for restoring confidence in others. She doesn't just offer technical strategy; she provides a safe space for honesty and accountability. For years, she has walked alongside local business owners, helping them navigate financial losses and health challenges to find stability and renewed purpose. Her mentorship is a reminder that true leadership is about seeing the humanity in others and helping them lead from a place of authentic clarity.
Teira Farley: BWRT Woman of Excellence Award
The BWRT Woman of Excellence Award is the highest honor of the afternoon, given to a Chamber member who has manifested a legacy of leadership and community shaping. As the Chief Operating Officer at CIC, Teira Farley has become an architectural force for opportunity in Charlottesville.
A double graduate of Florida A&M University, Teira’s professional journey is defined by intentional growth and service. Since joining CIC, she has been instrumental in strengthening community partnerships and overseeing the majority of the organization's programming. Her leadership style is rooted in trust; she develops future leaders by inviting them into strategic conversations and encouraging true autonomy. Teira’s influence stretches across the region through her roles as Chairwoman of the Minority Business Alliance and her service on the boards of Monticello Area Community Action Agency (MACCA) and PACEM. She is an author, an advocate, and a connector who ensures that the "people" side of business always remains the top priority.
Gratitude for Our Sponsors
This celebration would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Their investment in the Best in Business Awards Dinner helps celebrate and elevate the businesses and leaders driving our region forward.
Champion Sponsor: Sarah Stombaugh
Photography: Amy Yang
Special Thanks: Jefferson Engraving
The Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Business Women's Round Table extend a heartfelt thank you to all the nominators and attendees who made this year’s luncheon a success.
To learn more about the Business Women's Round Table, visit www.cvillechamber.com/bwrt/.
