Virginia has made an impact on American history and culture in countless ways — some expected, some not. We’ve put together an alphabetical compendium of the various industries, products, and even concepts that wouldn’t be the same without the Commonwealth’s contributions. Read on to
learn more about the sometimes-surprising ways Virginia has helped make America’s economy and culture what they are today.

Jonathan Zur is president and CEO of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC), a nonprofit organization that works with schools, businesses, and communities to promote inclusion. VEDP President and CEO Jason El Koubi spoke with Zur about VCIC’s mission, its activities, and the importance of pairing diversity with inclusion.

Virginia has been indispensable since the beginning of its existence. In addition to eight U.S. presidents, the Commonwealth was home to numerous Founding Fathers, civil rights leaders, and barrier-breaking athletes, actors, musicians and more. Read on to learn about Virginia’s contributions to history, music, sports, and the arts.

Bowman Andros Products, a global leader in fruit processing, frozen desserts, dairy, and confectionery products, will expand its Mt. Jackson operation in Shenandoah County.

Zollner Elektronik AG, one of the world’s largest manufacturing service providers for electronic and mechatronic components, will invest a combined $18 million to expand in Virginia.

Advanced Integrated Technologies (AIT), a ship repair scontractor for the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and Military Sealift Command, will invest $500,000 to expand in the City of Norfolk.

SanMar® Corporation, a leading supplier of wholesale accessories and apparel, will invest at least $50 million to establish a distribution operation in the East Coast Commerce Center in Hanover County.

STS Group AG, a leading global supplier of interior and exterior parts for commercial and personal vehicles, will establish its North American headquarters and manufacturing operation in the City of Salem.

Wilderness Mountain Water Company™ (“Wilderness”) will create 55 new jobs as part of a multi-million-dollar expansion of its water bottling operation in Bland County.

Magazine Jukebox (MJB) Inc., a company that provides commercial spaces with a digital alternative to traditional print magazines, will invest $1 million to expand in the City of Norfolk.