Hugh Gravitt IV has built his career around service, both in healthcare and in his work supporting fellow veterans.

The 41-year-old U.S. Navy veteran serves as executive director of Village Heart & Vein, where he leads operations focused on delivering cardiovascular care to the community. He is also the founder and Executive Director of Reforged Foundation, a faith-driven nonprofit that helps veterans rebuild strength, purpose and community through fitness, mentorship and accountability.

“I am most passionate about serving others by creating organizations that improve lives both inside and outside the workplace,” Hugh says.

Of his professional and personal accomplishments, founding Reforged Foundation is the one he says means the most.

“After navigating one of the most difficult seasons of my own life, I realized my purpose was to help veterans before they become another statistic,” he says.

Through the foundation, Hugh has partnered with local gyms, businesses, churches and community leaders to provide veterans with fitness opportunities, mentorship, weekly rucks and resources that support their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

“Seeing veterans build confidence, improve their health, strengthen their faith, and reconnect with a supportive community reminds me that our greatest struggles can become someone else’s hope,” Hugh says.

His healthcare career has also centered on service. Hugh says he has focused on improving access to quality care and building teams that put patients first.

“My goal is to build a stronger community by investing in those who have served our nation,” he says.

Two influences have played an especially important role in shaping his leadership journey.

“My wife, Lori, has been my greatest source of encouragement, accountability, and strength throughout every season of my life,” Hugh says.

His faith has also changed the way he views leadership and success.

“More recently, finding God has completely changed my perspective on leadership, success, and service,” he says. “I am still learning and growing in my faith every day, but it has taught me that true leadership is about serving others with humility, integrity, and purpose.”

That perspective also shapes the advice he gives to the next generation.

“Success is measured by the lives you impact, not the titles you hold,” Hugh says. “Be willing to serve before you lead, embrace challenges that help you grow, and never underestimate the power of building genuine relationships.”

And for Hugh, difficult seasons can become part of a larger purpose.

“Your greatest purpose is often found on the other side of your hardest season.”