Meet Benjamin Dessart
Universal Leaf Tobacco Company
Director, Corporate Affairs
Benjamin Dessart is a graduate of the University of Virginia where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Politics and History in 2012. He then spent several years working political campaigns throughout Virginia, including a period as Political Director for U.S. House Majority Leader, Eric Cantor. He attended the T.C. Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond and received his juris doctor in 2017.
While in law school, Ben served as Chairman of the College Republican Federation of Virginia and Legislative Assistant to Delegate Peter Farrell. After working in Local Government Affairs at Richmond-based Altria, Ben joined Universal Leaf Tobacco Company, the world’s leading leaf tobacco supplier, as Director of Corporate Affairs.
In addition to serving on the Board of Virginia FREE, Ben continues his commitment to public service as an active volunteer at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, as well as with several other organizations in the Greater Richmond area.