Richmond, Virginia
Appointed: January 2026 by Gov. Abigail Spanberger

Lester Johnson Jr. '95 is the owner and managing partner of the popular Richmond restaurant Mama J’s, one of the most notable soul food restaurants in the country. He and a fellow VMI alumnus launched the restaurant in historic Jackson Ward in 2009. Prior to opening the restaurant, Johnson was with Verizon Communications and Reynolds Metals Company.

In addition to a degree in mechanical engineering from VMI, Johnson holds a master’s degree in business administration from Virginia Commonwealth University. He played basketball at VMI and was a captain of the team from 1994 to 1996. He was also a member of the Promaji Club.