CvilleBioHub today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Nikki Hastings as President, recognizing her leadership in building the organization into a cornerstone of Central Virginia’s life sciences ecosystem and positioning it for continued growth and influence.
The appointment comes as CvilleBioHub prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary and marks one year since the launch of the Commonwealth BioAccelerator—milestones that underscore the organization’s accelerating impact across the region.
Since co-founding CvilleBioHub, Hastings has led the organization’s evolution from an emerging, community-focused initiative into a sought-after resource for founders, researchers, and industry partners. Under her leadership, CvilleBioHub has expanded its programming, strengthened institutional partnerships, and advanced its mission to support high-potential life sciences companies on a path to commercialization.
“This organization is growing in scope and influence and Nikki is shaping its future, not just running the day-to-day operations,” said Payam Pourtaheri, Board Chair of CvilleBioHub. “Her appointment as President reflects both the scale of what CvilleBioHub has become and the ambition of where the organization is headed. Nikki has built deep credibility with funders, institutional partners, and entrepreneurs alike, and she continues to elevate this region as a hub for life sciences innovation.”
The transition in title reflects a broader shift for CvilleBioHub as it enters a new phase defined by increased visibility, expanded partnerships, and a growing role as an ecosystem leader across Virginia and beyond.
“What started as a shared vision has grown into something far more impactful than we imagined,” said Martin Chapman, Co-Founder and Board Emeritus. “Nikki has been at the center of that growth from day one. Her leadership, persistence, and belief in what this region can become have helped turn CvilleBioHub into a true catalyst for innovation.”
As President, Hastings will continue to guide CvilleBioHub’s strategic direction, deepen its partnerships with public and private stakeholders, and expand the reach of the Commonwealth BioAccelerator to support the next generation of life sciences companies.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together over the past decade,” said Hastings. “As we look ahead, the opportunity is even greater to strengthen this ecosystem, support exceptional founders, and ensure Virginia continues to emerge as a leader in life sciences innovation.”