Rich Doud
Class of 1999
In 1990, after launching a series of successful entrepreneurial ventures, Doud beat out more than 200 applicants to become president of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce. The innovative ideas kept coming. In 1998, he co-founded Leadership Arlington, with a mission “to enlighten, inspire and connect leaders through community building and leadership development.” Then he promptly joined its inaugural class. Since then, Doud has embodied the mission, holding a dizzying number of board and volunteer positions with entities such as the Arlington Community Foundation, American Heart Association, the Black Heritage Museum of Arlington, Overlee Community Association, Arlington Committee of 100, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Chambers of Commerce, and Connect with Kids. A believer in powerful conversations and productive conflict, he has also served on numerous county task forces and advisory councils, weighing in on issues like neighborhood redevelopment, parking, retail, sustainability, small business and affordable housing. Doud retired in 2014 after 23 years of service to the Chamber, and his greatest legacy may be his approachable, collaborative style.
“It’s a great day to be in Arlington!” —Rich Doud
