Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation and the Library of Virginia have announced the 2024 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees and Student Creative Expressions Contest finalists. The annual program aims to recognize African American leaders who have made significant contributions to the Commonwealth.
Bill Murray, Senior Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications at Dominion Energy, expressed pride in honoring changemakers who have strengthened their communities, stating, "The Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees serve as role models for helping every community to thrive."
Librarian of Virginia Dennis T. Clark highlighted the importance of recognizing African Americans who have excelled in their fields, saying, "This year's honorees offer powerful success stories that reflect rich legacies of excellence."
The 2024 honorees include Captain Janet H. Days, Navy Commanding Officer from Norfolk; R. Tyrone Foster, Sheriff from Bristol; Dr. Erma L. Freeman, Dentist from Mecklenburg; and Gregory L. Robinson, NASA Project Director from Manassas.
The leaders were celebrated at a reception and private dinner in Richmond, where each honoree selected a nonprofit to receive a $5,000 grant from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation. Additionally, a traveling exhibition featuring the honorees and their biographies will be displayed at various institutions throughout the year.
In 2013, the Strong Men & Women in Virginia History program was established to honor outstanding African American leaders and provide high school students with a platform to celebrate unsung heroes. The 2024 Student Creative Expressions Contest finalists include Bezawit Abate, Justin Kidd Jones, Katelyn Luu, and Angelina Nair. Katelyn Luu from Cosby High School was named the contest winner for her portrayal of Udine Smith Moore, receiving a $2,000 grant for her school.
The Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, through various programs, contributed $46.7 million in 2023 to community causes, supporting initiatives that meet basic human needs, protect the environment, promote education, and encourage community vitality. The Library of Virginia, dedicated to preserving the state's history and culture, offers online resources attracting millions of visitors annually.
For more information on the Strong Men & Women in Virginia History program, including photos and honoree biographies, visit the Library of Virginia Education website.