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Ashley C. Covington recently gained recognition for her professional excellence and commitment to the Franklin-Southampton community in her role as marketing and existing business manager at Franklin Southampton Economic Development Inc.

She was one of 27 young professionals in Coastal Virginia who received the 2022 CoVa BIZ Next Gen Award.

“As always, the honorees selected this year came from an impressive pool of nominations and were chosen for their demonstrated excellence not only in their professional endeavors but in their dedication to the broader community,” stated Leona Baker, of CoVa BIZ Magazine.

The awards were handed out during a July 13 ceremony at Town Point Club in Norfolk.

“It was a huge honor to receive the 2022 CoVa BIZ Next Gen Award among so many outstanding professionals within the Hampton Roads region,” Covington said. “I am humbled to be in such an outstanding group and representing the Franklin-Southampton community.”

Asked what might have drawn the accolade, she mentioned thinking that her work with STARTUP Franklin Southampton and the broadband initiative for universal coverage contributed to her being honored.

Covington described STARTUP Franklin Southampton to CoVa BIZ as “a pitch competition with classes that has helped 10 businesses open and succeed. It has been transformative for our community.”

As for other qualities that might have led to her recognition, she added, “I would also like to think that my overall love of the community and desire to shine a light on the business owners and what the community has to offer helped.”

Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Teresa B. Beale submitted Covington’s nomination in late March.

“Ashley’s passion for Franklin-Southampton cannot be overstated, and her creative talents and efforts strengthen our community each and every day,” Beale said. “A quiet servant leader, she goes above and beyond, lifting up others, always avoiding the spotlight. The chamber was delighted to nominate Ashley for this honor and are fortunate to have this young professional serving our community. We love working with her!”

FSEDI President and CEO Karl T. Heck said that no one represents demonstrated excellence in their personal endeavors and in their dedication to the broader community better than Covington.

“Her contributions to FSEDI and our community are immense, and we are very fortunate to have her working for us,” he said. “She has a strong passion for Franklin-Southampton and all the members of our community and wants everyone to do well and succeed. Ashley is a tireless worker and is constantly creating new ways to make things happen and grow in our area.”