Asian Chamber hands out awards
Ravi Chaudhary, whose position with the Federal Aviation Administration puts him in charge of more than 2,000 federal workers, is the 2015 winner of the Asian Leadership Inspiration Award from the Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce.
Chaudhary, of Manassas, was presented with the award at the chamber’s seventh annual Asian Chamber Gala on Wednesday at The Jefferson Hotel. He also delivered the keynote address.
The award was one of five Excellence in Service awards conferred by the chamber at the gala.
As executive director for regions and center operations at the FAA, Chaudhary oversees operations of all nine FAA regions. He is responsible for a $288 million budget.
In 2014, President Barack Obama appointed Chaudhary to the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. It advises the president on efforts to improve economic and community development and on other issues regarding the AAPI community.
Tinh Phan, chairman of the Virginia Asian Chamber of Commerce, said Chaudhary was chosen for the state chamber’s award for his participation in education and business development and events created by the chamber.
“He has been very supportive of the chamber,” said Phan, “very involved in the things we do. He has promoted business opportunities and advancement for individuals in the Asian American community.”
A former Air Force officer with 21 years of service, Chaudhary holds a bachelor of science degree in aeronautical engineering from the Air Force Academy, a master’s degree in operational arts and science from Air University and a master’s degree in industrial engineering from St. Mary’s University.
Chaudhary is currently conducting research in executive leadership and innovation in the Georgetown University doctor of liberal studies program.
Wednesday’s event, which included dinner and cultural entertainment, was attended by about 300 people.
Other Excellence in Service award winners:
Gov. Terry McAuliffe, for the Economic Visionary Award.
Robyn Snyder, supplier diversity program manager at Lockheed Martin Corp., for the Champion of Business Diversity Award.
Zoe Roxburgh, director of purchasing for VCU Health System, for the Champion of Community Stewardship Award.
Gregory J. Gilligan, business editor at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, for the Business Journalism Award.