See which leaders made an impact on where Northern Virginians live and work, and how they spend their time.

By
Editorial

September 17, 2025 at 6:00 am

These leaders in business and development, education, government, health care, philanthropy, and more have made an impact in the last year on where Northern Virginians live and work, where they go for entertainment, and how they spend their time. Our editorial team has evaluated criteria including their achievements, cultural significance, peer recommendations, and community involvement. Meet The 50 Most Influential of 2025, including 10 individuals we’ve selected to highlight this year with a Q&A.

By Amy Ayres, Michele Kettner, Maggie Roth, and Debbie Williams

All photos are courtesy of each individual’s company or organization unless otherwise noted.

Barry Biggar has been championing Fairfax County’s many visit-worthy attractions since joining Visit Fairfax in 2008, and his efforts are working: The tourism economy in Fairfax County has doubled since he took the role. He also continues to lead as a founding member of the Fairfax County Economic Development Commission and the Sports Tourism Task Force.

What advice would you give to the next person who wants your job?“Be passionate about the community in which you live. Understand that what you do is important, and that your work is for the benefit of everyone in this community. Tourism raises critical tax revenue that helps fund our schools and the many great services that we enjoy as residents of Fairfax County.“

Chief Philanthropy Officer and President, Inova Health Foundation

Sage Bolte joined Inova in 2004 as an oncology counselor, and now oversees the health care system’s philanthropic strategies, including its Do. More. Together. campaign to raise $500 million by the end of 2029. Nationally recognized for her expertise in sexual health and cancer, she also serves as acting president of Inova Behavioral Health Services.

What do you love most about living and working in Northern Virginia?“Northern Virginia is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, innovation, and heart. I love how deeply people here care — not just about progress, but about each other. It’s also where I’m raising my children, and I’m grateful for strong public schools, access to the arts, and abundant outdoor spaces that invite connection. Whether cheering at a local hockey game or collaborating with community leaders, I see a shared commitment to making this region healthier, stronger, and more inclusive. It’s a place where vision meets action — and where my family and I truly feel at home.”