Girl Scouts name 2023 Take the Lead honoree

The president and executive producer of VA Production Inc. is being honored with the 2023 Berks County Take the Lead award from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania. 

The Girl Scouts described Virginia Dodge as a business owner with a passion for mentorship and community.  

When she was laid off from her production company job because of the recession in the 1990s, Dodge continued to help her clients – many of whom had become friends – and VA Productions was born.  

Nearly 25 years later, her clients include local and multinational companies.  

Throughout her career, the Girl Scouts noted that Dodge has provided free workshops for women to improve their PowerPoint and event planning skills in order to advance their job security, increase their salary and gain additional recognition.  

She also currently serves as the production manager for the Reading Symphony Orchestra and has turned a hobby into a conduit for charity with her custom-made jewelry.  

The profits from her jewelry making have contributed to her “Gifts that Give Back Charitable Fund,” which was administered through the Berks County Community Foundation and has raised thousands for children in the Reading area.  

Over the years, Dodge has served as a committee or board member for organizations including the John Paul II Center for Special Learning, Reading Musical Foundation, Rotary Club, Leadership Berks, Olivet Boys & Girls Club, Bethany Children’s Home, and GSEP.  

She also is a Lifetime Girl Scout. 

Take the Lead recognizes women leaders from Berks County whose achievements epitomize Girl Scouts’ values, while also serving as a leadership development opportunity for girls.  

As part of the program, high school-aged Girl Scouts are paired with an honoree to shadow them for a day, gain valuable career and leadership insights, and receive guidance on building their professional network.  

The Berks County Take the Lead recognition event will be held April 12 at DoubleTree by Hilton, Reading.