NORFOLK, Va. – The Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads (TDCHR), the governing body of Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), has announced that Noelle Pinkard, Organizational Advancement Officer, has been appointed interim President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2026.
Pinkard will assume the interim leadership role following the retirement of William E. Harrell, whose final day as HRT’s President and CEO will be July 31. Harrell is retiring after 14 years leading Hampton Roads Transit and 40 years of distinguished public service.
The announcement was made during the July 23 meeting of the Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads.
“Noelle’s experience, leadership, and deep understanding of our organization position her well to guide HRT during this transition,” said Hope Harper, chair of the TDCHR. “We are confident she will provide steady leadership as the Commission continues its search for HRT’s next President and CEO.”
The Commission launched a national search for HRT’s next chief executive, attracting more than 80 applicants. The Executive Committee of the Transportation District Commission reviewed the applicant pool, narrowed the field to a smaller group of qualified candidates, and conducted interviews. As the Commission continues its selection process, Pinkard will serve as interim President and CEO to ensure continuity of leadership and operations.
Pinkard currently serves as HRT’s Organizational Advancement Officer, where she oversees strategic initiatives that support the agency’s mission, organizational growth, and long-term planning. During her tenure, she has played a key role in advancing organizational priorities and strengthening relationships across the region.
The search for HRT’s next President and CEO remains ongoing. The Transportation District Commission expects to continue evaluating candidates before making a final appointment.
As Harrell concludes his tenure, the Commission recognized his lasting contributions to public transportation and the Hampton Roads region. During his 14 years as President and CEO, HRT secured the first dedicated regional transit funding source in the agency’s history, launched the 757 Express and Base Express, introduced OnDemand ridesharing, opened the Downtown Norfolk Transit Center, and grew the Paratransit fleet.
Noelle Pinkard, Organizational Advancement Officer, has been appointed interim President
and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2026.
About HRT
HRT’s mission is to connect Hampton Roads with transportation solutions that are reliable, safe, efficient and sustainable. For more information on transit services, visit gohrt.com.
Media Contact:
Thomas Becher, APR
Manager, Communications
Cell: (757) 354-0564
tbecher@hrtransit.org
July 30, 2026