River District Association Names New Executive Director

Tina Leone, CPA, CGMA, to lead organization's work transforming Danville's River District

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:07pm

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The River District Association (RDA) has appointed Tina Leone, CPA, CGMA, as its new executive director, effective January 26. Leone brings over 25 years of leadership and financial management experience in nonprofit, downtown and economic development organizations, most recently as CEO of the Ballston Business Improvement District in Arlington, VA.

Why it matters

The appointment of Leone as the new executive director of the River District Association comes at a critical time as the organization works to continue transforming Danville's River District into a welcoming, lively place for all while advancing social and economic development across the greater Dan River Region. Leone's extensive experience in leading downtown and business improvement organizations through transformative growth will be invaluable in building on the momentum in Danville's River District.

The details

As executive director, Leone's focus will be on listening deeply, strengthening relationships, and championing inclusive economic opportunity for residents, entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout the River District and the greater Dan River Region. Drawing on her experience with the Ballston BID and other community-driven organizations, Leone plans to advance RDA's mission, grow innovative programs, and ensure that everyone can share in Danville's growing quality of life.

  • Tina Leone was appointed as the new executive director of the River District Association on January 26, 2026.
  • Leone previously served as the CEO of the Ballston Business Improvement District in Arlington, VA.

The players

Tina Leone

The new executive director of the River District Association, bringing over 25 years of leadership and financial management experience in nonprofit, downtown and economic development organizations.

Emma Lugar Sellers

The president of the River District Association Board of Directors.

Alyssa Turner

The interim executive director of the River District Association.

Lashawn Farmer

The director of design and expansion at the River District Association.

Shane Brogden

The director of promotions and communications at the River District Association.

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What they’re saying

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, RDA is thrilled to welcome Tina Leone as our next executive director. Tina has a proven track record of leading downtown and business improvement organizations through transformative growth, fostering strong public–private partnerships, and elevating communities on the regional and national stage. Her experience launching successful placemaking initiatives, supporting entrepreneurs and advocating for business will be invaluable as we build on the momentum in Danville's River District and across the Dan River Region.”

— Emma Lugar Sellers, President of the River District Association Board of Directors

“I am honored to join the River District Association and to work alongside the board, staff, City of Danville, and community partners who have already achieved so much in revitalizing this historic downtown. The progress in Danville is inspiring—from being recognized as an All‑America City to the national attention RDA has received as a Great American Main Street—and I am excited to help write the next chapter of this success story.”

— Tina Leone, Incoming Executive Director of the River District Association

“As executive director, my focus will be on listening deeply, strengthening relationships, and championing inclusive economic opportunity for residents, entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout the River District and the greater Dan River Region. Drawing on my experience with the Ballston BID and other community‑driven organizations, I look forward to advancing RDA's mission, growing innovative programs, and ensuring that everyone can share in Danville's growing quality of life.”

— Tina Leone, Incoming Executive Director of the River District Association

What’s next

The River District Association will continue its work to transform Danville's River District and advance economic development in the greater Dan River Region under the leadership of new Executive Director Tina Leone.

The takeaway

The appointment of Tina Leone as the new executive director of the River District Association marks an exciting new chapter for the organization as it builds on its success in revitalizing Danville's historic downtown and works to ensure inclusive economic opportunity for all in the community.