Meet this week’s guest editor, Myra Goodman Smith! Myra has deep roots in our region, having shared her childhood experiences in Richmond through the UR museum exhibit "Growing Up in Civil Rights Richmond" and the book "Overcoming Bias." She has served residents and communities in our region through various roles and currently serves as President and CEO of Leadership Metro Richmond.
In her role, Myra connects community leaders, enhances their capacity to create meaningful change, and inspires community engagement. Passionate about nonprofit governance and management, Myra often extends her expertise to assist in strengthening organizations.
In her free time, Myra and her husband enjoy spending time with their families and attending concerts and sporting events in Richmond and beyond. She draws inspiration from the Chinese proverb below:
“When the winds of change blow, some people build walls, and others build windmills.”
Take it away, Myra ...
Billy Childs Quartet with Sean Jones, The Winds of Change
One of the things I love about Richmond is its talented musicians. Billy Childs is one of the finest — a leading American composer and jazz pianist who excels in both jazz and modern classical music. He’s won Grammys, writes for classical ensembles, and performs at top venues worldwide. This performance features his quartet alongside internationally recognized trumpeter Sean Jones.
One of the things that makes Richmond special is its powerful storytellers. Theresa G. is one of them — a renowned performer who brings history to life. Best known for portraying Coretta Scott King, she captures audiences with her vivid storytelling. In this performance, she honors Maggie Walker, the nation’s first Black female bank president, in a moving tribute. Experience In the Presence of Maggie Walker this weekend, as part of the Distinguished Speaker Forum at River Road Church.
Do you want to create change and make a difference in your community? Join us on February 13 to learn more about LMR’s community leadership program, Leadership Quest. You will discover how our program empowers individuals to connect, foster understanding, and create lasting change. Alumni and current participants will share firsthand stories about how they’ve built meaningful relationships, addressed regional challenges, and found innovative ways to make a difference. Whether you’re already leading or simply driven by a desire to do more, Leadership Quest is your opportunity to take the next step and inspire change where it matters most.
