Virginia Association of Fundraising Executives

Congratulations to our 2026 Honorees!

Nina Abady Award

Mary-Beth Johnson serves as Chief Operating Officer of the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC), where she oversees operations, scholarship programs and events, annual distributions to seventeen member institutions, and budget planning. She also supports the foundation’s development efforts through corporate and foundation grant writing and annual appeals. Mary-Beth has been with VFIC since 2004.

With more than 29 years of nonprofit experience in Richmond, she has led fundraising efforts across annual giving, major gifts, capital campaigns, grant writing, planned giving, and events, including roles with St. Joseph’s Villa and Home Again.

Mary-Beth holds a BA from the University of Lynchburg and management and nonprofit leadership certificates from the Darden School of Business, Virginia Commonwealth University, and the University of South Carolina. She is a past president of VAFRE and has served on several nonprofit boards, including the New Community School and the Richmond Symphony Orchestra League.

Rising Star Award

Josh Leidy is the Director of Affinity Engagement & Philanthropy at VCU, and he has built his career in higher education, dedicating the past three years to development and alumni relations. He leads identity-based engagement and philanthropy initiatives focusing on women, Black, and LGBTQ+ communities. Josh and his colleagues work to redefine philanthropy by emphasizing the power of community and its transformational impact. Outside of work, he channels his energy into fitness, experimenting with New York Times recipes in the kitchen, and spending quality time with his friends and his dog, Sadie.

Innovation in Fundraising Award

Charlottesville Albemarle SPCA Development Team

Leadership in Philanthropy Award

Sandra King is the founder and executive leader of Helping Hands Resource, Inc., a Hampton Roads nonprofit dedicated to supporting underserved individuals and families through education, outreach, and community programs. With a background in psychology and human services, she has led initiatives including youth mentorship, resource fairs, literacy workshops, and back-to-school supply drives.

Through her leadership, Helping Hands Resource connects families with critical support while promoting long-term stability and opportunity. Sandra is widely recognized for her compassionate leadership and commitment to strengthening communities.

Nonprofit Excellence in Philanthropy Award

Since 1834, St. Joseph's Villa has supported the diverse needs of our community's children and their families. Each year, the Villa serves more than 3,000 individuals, working to ensure equitable access to safe housing, high-quality education, therapeutic care, and essential support services. By empowering individuals, we strengthen families and build a healthier, more resilient community for everyone. 

Congratulations to all of our honorees!