Robert J. Grey

2000 Honoree

Robert Grey made history in 1998, when he was elected chairman of the American Bar Association's House of Delegates, the second-highest position within the nation's largest professional association. This makes Mr. Grey the highest-ranking African American ever within the organization and only one step away from its presidency.

A vice president with the law firm of LeClair Ryan in Richmond, Virginia, Mr. Grey's practice focuses on corporate representation in the areas of administrative law and regulatory matters before agencies, boards and commissions of the Commonwealth of Virginia. He also provides legislative representation of businesses and trade associations before the Virginia General Assembly.

Prior to joining LeClair Ryan in October 1995, Mr. Grey was a partner in the Richmond law firm of Mays & Valentine. With his professional experience and background, he has been a natural choice for several gubernatorial appointments, including chairman of the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, member of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Board of Visitors, and vice chairman of the Virginia Public Building Authority.

While Mr. Grey is clearly a leader in his profession, he is also a leader in his community. The Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and Washington & Lee University Law School graduate is currently chair of the Greater Richmond Partnership, co-chair of the Regional Metropolitan Area Project Strategies Steering Committee, a member of the VCU Business Council and a member of the Youth Matters Board of Directors.

The accomplishments of the well-respected lawyer have not gone unnoticed. In 1998, the UNCF/The College Fund bestowed upon him the Flame Bearer Award, and the National Bar Association presented him with the Wiley A. Branton Award. The VCU Business School recognized Mr. Grey as one of its "stars" with an alumni award in 1995.

To America's future, Mr. Grey offers these sentiments: "Our society is entering the most exciting time in your history -- it's called the technology revolution. And like the industrial revolution, it will transform the way we live and work worldwide. It's a brand new world -- with limitless opportunities, where millions and billions of dollars will be made -- make it your world!"