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Pam Cox

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs brought together nearly 230 leaders from across the Commonwealth on April 15 for the 18th Excellence in Virginia Government Awards (EVGA) luncheon—an annual event recognizing public servants whose work is shaping communities and strengthening public life across Virginia.

Held at the Omni Richmond Hotel, the Wilder School’s signature awards program highlights individuals and organizations whose leadership reflects a sustained commitment to public service and measurable impact.

Dean Susan T. Gooden opened the program by underscoring the broader purpose of EVGA, noting that the event supports scholarships that provide critical financial assistance to Wilder School students. This year, graduate student Aermo Ayalew and undergraduate student Hunter Knight were each awarded $10,000, reinforcing the school’s commitment to preparing the next generation of public service leaders.

Governor L. Douglas Wilder delivered keynote remarks, emphasizing the enduring importance of listening to the public and addressing the issues that matter most to communities across the Commonwealth.

Awards were presented by Dr. Bob Holsworth, former director of the Wilder School and managing partner at Decide-Smart, who recognized honorees whose work spans health care, economic development, infrastructure and public service.

The 2026 honorees include:

  • Lifetime Achievement Award (posthumous): James M. “Jim” Holland, recognized for decades of leadership in Chesterfield County and his contributions to economic development and community progress.
  • Community Enhancement Award: Dr. Wally R. Smith, a physician-scientist advancing care and outcomes for individuals living with sickle cell disease.
  • Grace E. Harris Leadership Award: Dr. Tamarah Holmes, honored for leading statewide broadband expansion efforts.
  • Hill-Robinson Expansion of Freedom Award: U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine, recognized for his longstanding commitment to civil rights and public service.
  • Public-Private Partnership Award: Virginia Early Childhood Foundation, advancing coordinated early childhood systems across the state.
  • Unsung Hero Award: Barbara Carter, honored for her dedicated work supporting Virginia’s legislative process.

Governor’s Medallion Presented

A central moment of the program was the presentation of the Governor’s Medallion to U.S. Sen. Mark Warner. As the highest distinction awarded by the Wilder School, the medallion recognizes individuals whose contributions to public service have had a lasting and far-reaching impact. The award has been presented only once before, in 2016.

Television Broadcast

The celebration will extend beyond the event through a partnership with WTVR CBS 6. A half-hour special, “Celebrating Excellence in Virginia Government,” will air Sunday, May 3 at 11:35 p.m.