Celebrating Excellence in Education Across the Fredericksburg Region

The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce proudly brought together educators, school leaders, higher education partners, business professionals, and community champions for the 2026 Educator Excellence Brunch & Awards on June 23rd at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. The annual event served as a powerful reminder that the success of our region’s future workforce begins in our classrooms.

Educators play a critical role in shaping the next generation of leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and skilled professionals. Through their dedication, creativity, and commitment to student success, they help strengthen not only individual lives but also the economic vitality of our entire region.

This year’s event celebrated outstanding educators from Caroline County, King George County, Spotsylvania County, Stafford County, the City of Fredericksburg, Germanna Community College, and the University of Mary Washington.

Attendees heard remarks from two distinguished higher education leaders whose institutions play an essential role in preparing students for future success.

Dr. Tim O’Donnell, Provost of the University of Mary Washington, shared insights on the importance of academic excellence, innovation in teaching and learning, and the value of partnerships that support student achievement and regional growth. Following his remarks, Dr. Eric Earnhardt, Dean of Arts & Sciences at Germanna Community College, spoke about the importance of access to education, workforce readiness, and collaboration between K-12 schools, higher education institutions, and business leaders.

Together, their messages reinforced a central theme of the event: strong educational partnerships are essential to building a thriving workforce and a prosperous community.

“The Fredericksburg region is fortunate to have educators who inspire, innovate, and invest in the success of every student,” said Carley Walker, Director of WorkForce NOW and Executive Vice President of Workforce and Community Development for the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Today’s honorees exemplify the dedication and leadership that help prepare our future workforce while strengthening our entire community.”

Award recipients were recognized across multiple categories that highlight the many ways educators impact students, schools, and communities.

Rising Star Award

Honoring educators with less than five years of experience who have demonstrated exceptional promise and made a significant impact early in their careers.

Joe Sotomayor, Spotsylvania Career and Technical Center
Dondre Harris, Battlefield Elementary School
Samantha Sullivan, Thornburg Middle School
Tiffany Josephs, Spotsylvania Career and Technical Center
Cameron Woodard, Lafayette Elementary School
Mary Mulligan, Caroline Middle School
Sarah Sulser, King George Elementary School

Innovative Learning Award

Recognizing educators who bring creativity, innovation, technology, and fresh approaches to learning that enhance student engagement and achievement.

Steve Pavey, Stafford County Public Schools
Gabriel Cerrillo, Spotsylvania Career and Technical Center
Terri Rinko, King George High School
Kristina Peck, University of Mary Washington

Student Advocate Award

Celebrating educators who go above and beyond to support the academic, emotional, and personal success of their students.

Lori Kizner, Thornburg Middle School
Dr. Mari Dyer, Spotsylvania County Public Schools
Dr. Melissa White, Lotus Academy
Ta’layah Davis, Student, Stafford High School

Community Impact Award

Honoring educators whose influence extends beyond the classroom through mentorship, partnerships, volunteerism, and service to students and families.

Rebecca Morris, Germanna Community College
Danelle Livingston, Lafayette Elementary School
Noah Hughes, Caroline High School
Mari Waite, Parent Teacher Resource Center Stafford

Excellence in Inclusive Education Award

Presented by the University of Mary Washington School of Education to recognize educators who create welcoming and supportive learning environments where all students can thrive.

Christy McDonald, Post Oak Middle School
Nicole Knight, Spotsylvania High School
Karen Bingham, Falls Run Elementary School

Visionary Leadership Award

Recognizing educational leaders whose vision, innovation, and commitment to excellence create positive and lasting impacts within their schools and communities.

Andrew Bathke, Stafford High School
Heather Wright, Stafford County Public Schools
Jacinta Calzada-Mayronne, Fredericksburg City Public Schools
Dr. Rebecca Towery, University of Mary Washington

Outstanding Educator Award

Presented to educators with five or more years of experience who exemplify excellence in teaching, leadership, mentorship, and student success.

Joseph Eveler, Stafford High School
Genevra Meyer, Lafayette Elementary School
Ciera Jacobs, Lafayette Elementary School
Sarah Vaughn, Caroline County Public Schools
Tammi Minter, Spotsylvania Career and Technical Center
Jessica Derrick, Heritage Christian Academy

Educator of the Year

The highest honor recognizing exceptional achievement and impact in education.

Lisa Lewis, Hugh Mercer Elementary School

Lifetime Achievement Award

Honoring an educator whose career has been defined by extraordinary dedication, lasting impact, and a legacy of service.

Richard Yost, Fredericksburg Christian School

The Educator Excellence Brunch & Awards is more than an awards ceremony. It is a celebration of the educators who inspire curiosity, encourage achievement, foster innovation, and help students discover their potential.

Every educator recognized represents the countless teachers, administrators, counselors, support staff, and educational leaders working each day to strengthen our schools and prepare students for the opportunities ahead.

As the Fredericksburg region continues to grow, the impact of these educators will be felt for generations to come through the students they inspire and the communities they help build.