Dr. Ella P. Ward
Dr. Ella P. Ward is a distinguished leader whose career reflects steadfast dedication to education, public service, and community engagement. A prominent figure in civic life, she has earned the trust of the Chesapeake community through decades of consistent, results-driven leadership.
Dr. Ward’s career in public service began in education. She was elected to the Chesapeake School Board in 2000 and re-elected in 2004, later serving at the state level following her appointment to the Virginia Board of Education in 2003 by Governor Mark Warner and her reappointment in 2007 by Governor Tim Kaine. In 2006, she was elected vice president of the Board for the first time in 2006 and was re-elected to that role for four consecutive terms—an affirmation of her leadership and expertise. She was also appointed to the Christopher Newport University Board by Governor Ralph Northam and served for 8 years.
That same year, Dr. Ward was elected to the Chesapeake City Council, becoming only the second African American woman elected to that position. Her re-election campaigns reflect her enduring grassroots approach. She has served as a voting member of the Hampton Roads Planning District and the Hampton Roads Transportation boards for more than 17 consecutive years,
A proud Norfolk State University graduate with a B.A. in 1969 (Valedictorian) and an M.A. in Mass Communications in 1977, she was named an NSU Distinguished Alumni in 2018, and she received a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021. Dr. Ward served as a Portsmouth Public Schools teacher and administrator for 35 years before retiring in 2004. She holds five academic degrees and has received numerous honors recognizing her leadership and community service. Her legacy is one of perseverance, accessibility, faith in God, and an unwavering belief that meaningful change begins with showing up and doing the work.
She has been happily married to her high school sweetheart, Mr. Herman L. Ward, for 61 years, and is the proud mother of Torilus Ward.