Justin Ayars, JD

Justin Ayars, JD has had a diverse and successful career. In 2008, they began as an Associate Attorney at Semmes Bowen & Semmes where they litigated civil cases, conducted legal research, and managed case files. In 2009, they became a Solo Practitioner, as well as Co-Founder and Director of Sales & Marketing at Jitterzz Koffee, LLC, a thriving, independently owned coffee shop. Justin also founded 2113 Main Street, LLC, a restaurant, and Broken Gate Workshop, LLC, a woodshop. In 2010, they Co-Founded and became the Director of Business Development & Communications at Umbrella Management Group, LLC, a boutique consulting firm. In 2014, they became the President & CEO of the Virginia Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and Regional Director of Sales, Director of Communications and Office Manager at the Virginia Opera Association. In 2015, they founded Q Media / Equality Rewards, a regional LGBTQ+ multimedia/marketing firm. In 2020, they founded equalityMD, an LGBTQ+ inclusive telehealth for employers and individuals.

Justin Ayars, JD completed a BA in Political Science & International Relations from William & Mary in 2003. Justin then attended George Mason University - Antonin Scalia Law School, graduating with a JD in Law & Economics in 2007. Justin also obtained a Licensed Attorney certification from the Virginia State Bar in 2008. In 2004, they obtained a Certified Member (CM) certification from The International Legal Honor Society of Phi Delta Phi and a Certified Member (CM) certification from Beta Theta Pi in 2001. In 2007, they attended NUS Faculty of Law for International Business & Commerce, and in 2004 they attended The Australian National University for Diplomacy & International Relations. In 2001, they attended the University of Cambridge for History & Literature (British and Commonwealth). Justin has also obtained several additional certifications, including a Leadership Certificate from Lead Virginia in 2019, a Leadership Certificate from Leadership Metro Richmond in 2014, and a HackOut - Startup Hackathon Certificate from StartOut in 2020. In 2021, they attended Harvard Business School Executive Education for Accelerating Board Diversity. Justin is currently enrolled in Harvard Business School for a degree in Business Administration and Management, General, which they are expected to complete in 2024.