Vernard W. Henley

1995 Honoree

Vernard W. Henley is a successful banker. He was the first black American President of the Virginia Banker's Association. Born in Richmond, Virginia he attended its public schools and earned a scholarship to Virginia State University where he majored in business administration.

After graduation, Henley was hired as a teller at the Mechanics and Farmers Bank in Durham, North Carolina. He was impressed with Durham because of its network of successful black entrepreneurs who flourished there.

Bank president John Wheeler was an inspirational business leader and Henley decided to use Wheeler's advice and insight as a compass for guiding him through the rocks and shoals of banking.

From 1952 to 1954, Lieutenant Henley was in the U.S. Army and was awarded the Bronze Star in Korea for bravery in action. After his discharge, he returned to Durham. For a brief period, he was Chief Executive Officer at the Unity Bank in Dayton, Ohio.

He subsequently went to Richmond to work for Consolidated Bank and Trust Company. Between 1961 and the present, he rose from vice president to chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer.

This CEO is an outstanding corporate citizen. He has served on boards of directors for a number of foundations, hospitals, universities as well as charitable and community organizations. Henley received many awards for his service to his community and state. Henley received The Quest for Success Award for black entrepreneurs in 1986. His alma mater, Virginia State University, honored him with on achievement award in 1991 and the following year awarded a Doctorate of Humane Letters. He is listed in "Who's Who in America," "Who's Who in Finance and Industry" and "Who's Who Among Black Americans."

When asked what message he wished to leave for this generation of young Americans, he replied, "Be willing to commit yourself to intensive study and hard work in whatever career you pursue."