We are thrilled to announce that former Refuge Inn owner Donna Leonard has been named the 2025 John White Shields Outstanding Citizen.
This award recognizes an individual who has consistently demonstrated excellence in community leadership and exhibits the highest of moral and ethical standards and has made, or is making, significant contributions to the welfare of the community through involvement and participation, who as lived on Chincoteague Island for at least five (5) years.
Born and raised on Chincoteague, Donna has devoted her life to improving the island she loves. From her early days as a teenage tour guide to decades of community involvement, she has consistently worked to preserve Chincoteague’s unique heritage while guiding it thoughtfully into the future.
After taking over her family’s business, in 1990, she balanced entrepreneurship with
tireless community service. Since stepping away from daily business operations in 2017,
she has dedicated even more time to projects that have shaped the fabric of our town. She has played a key role in many major initiatives, including the Downtown Revitalization Project, Brianna Kindness Park, and the Island Dog Park—each requiring years of planning, fundraising, and collaboration. She brings creativity, persistence, and compassion to every cause.
Her leadership extends to serving on numerous boards and committees, including the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce, Easter Decoy & Art Festival, and the Town Parks and Recreation Committee. She also helped preserve the former elementary school property, now home to the Chincoteague Cultural Alliance, pickleball courts, and more. This year’s honoree is a natural ambassador for the island. Whether hosting journalists, guiding trolley tours, or welcoming visitors into her home, she shares her love for Chincoteague with warmth and pride. Her commitment to mentoring younger generations ensures her legacy will continue for years to come.