Bernice Washington is a respected community leader and lifelong advocate for education, service, and faith. She has dedicated her life to uplifting others through mentorship, leadership, and volunteer efforts across Orange County and beyond. For more than 20 years, Bernice has worked at the Orange County Department of Social Services, where she recruits foster parents to serve as nurturing foster families, helps parents find employment, and supports programs that enhance the

Markiana T. Smith is a proud graduate of the University of Virginia, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in African and African American Studies. During her time at UVA, she became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, and was the creative writing director of the Black Monologues. Marki is a dynamic nonprofit leader, community advocate, and strategist with a deep commitment to service, equity, and connection. As the Engagement and Belonging Manager at the Unite

For 30 years, Crystal Snead Crockett has been more than a business owner in Orange County—she has been a symbol of perseverance, purpose, and community. As an African American woman and entrepreneur, she has built a legacy that uplifts others through faith, hard work, and compassion. Crystal began her entrepreneurial journey at just 20 years old. Over three decades, she has employed nearly 20 people, two of whom have gone on to open and successfully operate their own salons.

Valencia B. Bailey is a proud native of Chatham, Virginia, and the youngest of three daughters born to the late Alfonso “Big Al” and Ozella Bennett. She carries forward their legacy of generosity and community care with grace and purpose. Valencia dedicated 28 years to GEICO, serving in multiple departments before retiring. In 2014, she and her husband, Pastor Tommie L. Bailey, founded Good Samaritan Inc., a nonprofit providing food and clothing to individuals and families ac

Ayana Braxton-Thurston, VCA, is a lifelong resident of Orange County with deep roots in community service. Her engagement began in middle school as Youth President of the Orange County NAACP Branch and continued through high school as an intern at the Orange County Free Clinic with the Blue Ridge Virtual Governor’s School. After college, she returned home to continue her dedication to public service and equitable governance. In November 2024, Ayana was appointed Procurement S

Writer/photographer/videographer Phil Audibert has called Orange County home ever since he was eight years old. Something of a jack of all trades (and self admitted master of none), Phil has also been, over the years, a radio News Director, a cattle farmer, an innkeeper, a ski instructor, a musician, and a historical tour guide. But most importantly, Phil has followed a lifelong passion for photography and journalism, both print and broadcast. He focuses his lenses, microphon

Celebrate the Eclipse Awards Class of 2024 A Physician/Musician, a Nurse, a Radio Disc Jockey, a Church volunteer and historian, an...

Theresa Collins Williams embodies the spirit of service and compassion. She also places great importance on preserving and celebrating...

Alyssa Waller is a passionate, hard-working woman who puts passion and care for others into everything she does. As a mother of two sons,...

Robert “JD Slade” Wade has served over 50 years as an Orange County radio disc jockey and host on WJMA. At just sixteen, Bob entered the...

Denise Thompson is the owner of Coopers Cookin and Catering LLC. Her commitment to service is reflected in the events and initiatives she...

Jennifer, also known as "Wendy" Rivas, is a compassionate and kind individual with a warm and infectious laughter that radiates joy. Her...

Dena Jennings, D.O. is a luthier, musician, writer, Virginia Master Naturalist, and Internal Medicine physician with certification in...

Seidah Armstrong is considered a serial entrepreneur. Currently, she owns Sweet Vines Farm Winery, STREAM Bright Educational Services,...