Mayor Gray receives recognition for workforce development

Oct. 22, 2025 - The City Council surprised Mayor Jimmy Gray at its legislative meeting on Wednesday evening with a public recognition of a regional honor that he received recently.

The Hampton Roads Workforce Council has honored Mayor Gray as the 2025 Workplace Champion, recognizing his transformative leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing workforce development across the region.

The Workforce Innovation Awards celebrate individuals and organizations making significant strides in creating opportunity, fostering collaboration, and driving economic growth through workforce innovation. Mayor Gray's recognition underscores his dedication to building partnerships that strengthen Hampton's talent pipeline and empower residents to succeed in a changing economy.

Mayor Gray was unable to attend the awards reception on Thursday, Oct. 9, at Rivers Casino Portsmouth. At the reception, honorees were featured in interview-style videos highlighting their contributions to workforce excellence across Hampton Roads. Click here to watch Mayor Gray's interview.

At the council's afternoon work session, the members heard presentations about a partnership between Hampton City Schools and Christopher Newport University, and about the city's strategic goals of. Placemaking and Excellence in Government.

At the evening's legislative session, the council voted to revoke the use permit for a restaurant and lounge located downtown after several incidents that required police intervention.

The council also had a ceremonial Spotlight session recognizing fathers who have participated in parenting programs offered by Hampton Healthy Families.

Steve Cook, chief innovation officer for the Hampton Roads Worforce Council, presents Mayor Jimmy Gray with his award on Wednesday evening.