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Deirdre Gonsalves-Jackson Selected as Recipient of Virginia Business’ 2026 C-Suite Award
The VWU provost and vice president is among 38 leaders honored for excellence, innovation, and impact across the Commonwealth
University News | March 25, 2026
Virginia Wesleyan University proudly celebrates Provost and Vice President Deirdre C. Gonsalves-Jackson, Ph.D., who has been named a recipient of Virginia Business’ 2026 C-Suite Awards—an honor recognizing the Commonwealth’s most accomplished and influential executive leaders.
Selected among just 38 honorees statewide, Dr. Gonsalves-Jackson is being recognized for her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and meaningful contributions to both the University and the broader community. The award highlights executives who not only drive organizational success but also make a lasting impact beyond their institutions.
Published since 1986, Virginia Business is the state’s leading source for business news and analysis. Award recipients are chosen by a panel of judges, including the magazine’s editors, for their professional achievements and community engagement.
A respected scholar and dedicated leader, Dr. Gonsalves-Jackson has built a distinguished career defined by innovation, mentorship, and service. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Randolph College, a Master of Science in Biology from Florida Atlantic University, and a Ph.D. in Biology from Florida Institute of Technology.
Her many honors reflect her far-reaching influence, including the Barbara Holland Administrator-Scholar Award from the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities and the WISE Alumna Legacy Award for her outstanding contributions to STEM outreach. At Virginia Wesleyan, she has been recognized with the Samuel Nelson Gray Distinguished Teaching Award and the Birdsong Service and Community Engagement Award, and she holds the distinguished title of Batten Professor. Most recently, Dr. Gonsalves-Jackson received the Virginia Black Business Leaders Award (January 2025) and was an honoree for Innovators & Disruptors: Women on the Leading Edge from CoVaBiz Magazine (March 2024).
Dr. Gonsalves-Jackson will be celebrated alongside fellow honorees on June 4 at The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, Virginia. The 2026 award recipients will also be featured in the June issue of Virginia Business and online at VirginiaBusiness.com.