Lynchburg Creates 400 Jobs, Honors Late Anchor's Legacy

A growing Virginia region just proved that good news comes in pairs: hundreds of new jobs and a touching tribute to a beloved community figure.

The Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance wrapped up its annual meeting Thursday morning with exciting news for job seekers. Eight industrial projects launched across the region in 2025 brought more than 400 new positions to the area, marking what leaders called a strong year of economic growth.

But the morning held an even more meaningful moment for many in attendance. Lynita Spain presented the George Taylor Stewart III Award for Community Impact, an honor her late husband Mark Spain received in 2025.

Mark Spain served as an anchor for ABC13, touching countless lives through his journalism before his passing. His dedication to the Lynchburg region left a lasting mark on the community he served.

This year's award went to Gary Campbell, president and CEO of Johnson Health Center. Campbell stood before the crowd with genuine humility as he accepted the recognition.

"I too looked at the names that had won this award in the past, and I will have to say it was quite humbling," Campbell said during his acceptance. His work leading the health center has made healthcare more accessible for residents across the region.

The Ripple Effect

Those 400 new jobs mean 400 families with more financial stability. They represent mortgage payments made easier, college funds growing stronger, and dinner tables with less worry and more hope.

Each industrial project builds on the last, creating momentum that attracts even more investment to the area. Alliance leaders are already looking ahead, working to bring additional opportunities to Lynchburg in the coming year.

The combination of economic progress and community recognition shows what makes regional growth truly matter: it's not just about numbers on a spreadsheet, but about honoring the people who make a place worth investing in. Mark Spain dedicated his career to sharing stories that mattered, and now his legacy continues inspiring leaders who are writing the next chapter of Lynchburg's success story.