Original posting 2003
Virginia Anderson, in a career spanning public and private development, has contributed broadly to the creation of distinctive places well loved by Seattle residents and visitors. From early work in planning and project management with King County and Seattle community development programs, she went on to Cornerstone Columbia Development Company to manage development activities throughout the Northwest.

As Director of the Seattle Center 1988-2006, she has overseen the revitalization of Seattle's major public assembly complex which welcomes sports, cultural, and community activities of local, regional, and international meaning. From planning to implementation, she has the lead role in redevelopment efforts involving major investments of public and private funds.

She has shown exemplary skill and effectiveness in coordinating and showcasing the work of planners, architects, landscape architects, and artists to recreate a lively urban place from the heritage of the Worlds Fair. Projects recognized for design quality and public appeal include the KeyArena restoration, International Fountain, Founder's Court, Fisher Pavilion, McCaw Hall, and The Reeds.

In 1996, AIA Seattle welcomed Virginia Anderson as an Honorary Member, in recognition of her outstanding achievements. In November 1998, Seattle Weekly described her as "one of Seattle's most influential women and one of city government's most autonomous officials," including her in its list of "Who Really Runs Seattle?" In 2001, she accepted appointment as a public member of the National Architectural Accrediting Board, which oversees the quality of education in US schools of architecture. In 2004, the American Society of Landscape Architects honored her with its LaGasse Medal, which recognizes "individuals who have made notable contributions to the management and conservancy of natural resources and/or public lands."