2026 OCAAHS Eclipse Awardee, Ed Harvey

For more than five decades, Ed Harvey has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the arts, communications, and community service. A native of Lynchburg, Virginia, Ed began his television career while still in high school and continued working in television while attending Lynchburg College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Arts in 1969.

Ed served in the United States Air Force from 1969 to 1973, working in television production with Armed Forces Television in Texas and Berlin, Germany. Following his military service, he resumed his television career in Lynchburg before moving to Washington, D.C. His distinguished 35-year career included positions with WJLATV and WETA, where he ultimately served as Vice President and General Manager of the WETA Production Center.

Retirement in 2001 marked a new chapter of service. For 24 years, Ed has served as President of The Arts Center in Orange, championing creativity, artistic expression, and opportunities that bring people together. His volunteer leadership has also included service as President and board member of Virginians for the Arts and the Keswick Hunt Club.

Ed’s commitment to preserving and celebrating African American history has made a lasting impact in Orange County. Alongside Laura Thompson and the Orange County African American Historical Society, Ed was instrumental in establishing Orange’s Juneteenth celebration. Through decades of professional excellence, volunteer leadership, and steadfast advocacy for the arts and community, Ed Harvey has enriched Orange County’s cultural landscape and created a legacy of service that will continue to inspire generations.