Noelle Pinkard Named HRT Interim President and CEO

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), VA, has named Noelle Pinkard interim president and chief executive officer following the retirement of William E. Harrell, who led the agency for 14 years. Harrell has had 40 years of distinguished public service, including serving on APTA’s Legislative Committee, High-Speed & Intercity Passenger Rail Committee, and others.

Pinkard was most recently HRT’s organizational advancement officer, overseeing strategic initiatives and playing a key role in advancing organizational priorities. She will take over the lead role at the agency while a national search for a permanent president and CEO continues.

“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 Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads. “We are confident she will provide steady leadership as the Commission continues its search for HRT’s next president and CEO.”

The Commission recognized Harrell’s contributions to public transportation and the Hampton Roads, VA, region. During his time leading the agency, HRT secured its first dedicated regional transit funding source, launched the 757 Express and Base Express, introduced OnDemand ridesharing, opened the Downtown Norfolk Transit Center, and grew its paratransit fleet.