Job: Chief development officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia

At work: I raise money, yes — but really, I raise possibilities. I help ensure Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia’s youth and teens have every chance to learn, lead and succeed by partnering with incredible supporters who boldly invest in the potential of our young people.

Volunteer activities: I stay deeply connected to the arts and to women’s leadership. When I’m not championing youth at Boys & Girls Clubs, I’m championing the arts as board president for Virginia Regional Ballet productions — supporting the performances that bring magic to our community and even stepping into the spotlight myself each year in “The Nutcracker.” I also serve on the Chesapeake Fine Arts Commission, where I have the opportunity to bring forward the power of the arts by supporting access and championing the amazing artists who bring our community to life. I serve on Randolph-Macon Woman’s College/Randolph College Alumni Association Board, where I can continue the legacy of women supporting women by investing in the same opportunities that once invested in me.

Home and family: I live in Chesapeake with my amazing husband, Jonathon, our daughter, Coco, and a pair of beloved pets — our pug, Biscuit, and our cat, Ollie. Growing up in a military family and having lived in so many places, I’m proud to call Hampton Roads home.

Motivating factor: The fact that Boys & Girls Clubs is the best at what we do. Youth development isn’t just our work — it’s our identity. Being part of a mission-driven organization that consistently delivers safe places for kids to feel connected and thrive fuels my passion and commitment.

Advice for women in business: Lead with inclusion, listen deeply and value every voice at the table. Trust your own voice, especially when it shakes, and surround yourself with women who lift you higher, then be that woman for someone else.

The one thing I would change about Hampton Roads: To build a more unified culture of collaboration across Hampton Roads, so every child has consistent, equitable support and the foundation they need to thrive.

Professional goal in five years: To help establish a Boys & Girls Club, a true home away from home, in every city we serve. Over the course of my career, I’ve raised more than $40 million, and I’m committed to using that experience to expand opportunities for even more young people.

Downtime: I’m in my happy places: the garden, the kitchen and spending time with family. And somewhere in there, I pretend I’m going to catch up on laundry someday.

What really gets under my skin: When nonprofits are judged by the actions of a few that don’t operate the right way. It unfairly diminishes the dedication and integrity of the organization.

https://www.pilotonline.com/2025/12/15/women-in-business-2025-adrianna-rivera/