Bruce Whitehurst

Few individuals remain with the same organization for 20 years. However, since joining the Virginia Bankers Association (VBA) in 1993, Bruce Whitehurst, President and CEO of the organization, said he continues to be “challenged and invigorated at all times.”

Before joining the VBA, Whitehurst held the roles of part-time teller, management trainee, branch manager and commercial lender at Jefferson National Bank. While there, he was active in the VBA’s Young Bankers Section, a group focused on supporting economic education in Virginia’s schools and universities. “I had always been interested in politics, and when I learned of an opening at the VBA, it seemed like a great way to blend my banking experience with my interest in politics,” he said.

In his 20 years at the VBA, Whitehurst has had varying responsibilities which include lobbying on behalf of the banking industry, partnering with member banks in various ways and building a comprehensive education and training program to support member banks. “In short, the VBA has given me the opportunity to work with and for banks in numerous entrepreneurial ways—something I did not expect when I first joined the organization,” Whitehurst said.

Having taken several business courses at the University of Richmond during his time at Jefferson National Bank, Whitehurst knew he wanted to pursue his MBA. “Richmond was a natural choice based on its excellent reputation and its convenient location,” he said.

Whitehurst acknowledges his experience in The Richmond MBA has helped him in numerous ways at the VBA. “I have a broader perspective on business than I would have otherwise had. I am much better equipped to make presentations, which I do on a regular basis, as a result of all the small group presentations I helped make in so many classes. I believe I am a much better strategic thinker than I would otherwise be, as well as a better observer of the dynamics in any given situation,” he said. “I can honestly say that I enjoyed each and every class. Due to work and family commitments, I took a long time to complete my degree, which rewarded me with the opportunity to take fewer classes at a time and to enjoy the learning experience in each one.”

The lessons he learned at Richmond have helped him manage the recent uncertain banking industry and reminded him why he continues to find value in his career. “The last five years have been very challenging for the banking industry, both economically and in terms of the industry’s image being tarnished well beyond reason. I have found it very challenging, yet also very fulfilling, to represent this essential industry that is full of great people during these difficult times,” Whitehurst said.

Whitehurst remains connected to The Richmond MBA since receiving his MBA in 2004 by serving on the Robins School of Business’ Executive Advisory Council, returning to campus to lead presentations in MBA courses as well as maintaining relationships with professors and administration. He was also elected as the speaker of the 2010 Stanley S. Watts lecture, an annual event which brings leaders from business and government to campus to talk about the financial services industry.

“I am a strong advocate of lifelong learning, and I continually seek new opportunities for personal and professional growth and development,” Whitehurst said. “The Richmond MBA was a major part of my journey and one I would highly recommend to anyone interested in this course of study.”