The Hon. William Ferguson Reid

Dr. William Ferguson Reid was honored for his groundbreaking political career as the first African American elected to the Virginia General Assembly since Reconstruction. A distinguished physician, civil rights activist, and Navy veteran, Reid co-founded the Richmond Crusade for Voters in 1955 to mobilize Black voters during the era of Massive Resistance. The Crusade helped reshape Richmond’s political landscape and contributed to the election of the city’s first African American mayor, Henry L. Marsh.

In 1968, Reid made history with his election to the Virginia House of Delegates, representing Richmond and parts of Henrico County. He was re-elected twice, paving the way for future Black political leadership in Virginia. Born and raised in Richmond, Dr. Reid celebrated his 100th birthday in March 2025, marking a century of service, advocacy and lasting impact.

The Campagna Center

The Campagna Center was honored for its leadership in providing educational and social support programs to children and families across Alexandria. Since 1945, the organization has served the Northern Virginia community through a range of initiatives tailored to underserved populations. Under the direction of President and CEO Tammy Mann, Ph.D., the organization expanded its reach to serve more than 2,000 children, youth and adults daily.

Programs included Campagna Kids, which fostered creative learning in elementary students through before- and after-school programs, Wright to Read, which paired volunteer tutors with students needing literacy support, and New Neighbors, which offered English instruction and critical resources to immigrant and refugee populations.

Eva Teig Hardy

Eva Teig Hardy was honored for a distinguished career in both the public and private sectors. She served as Virginia’s Secretary of Health and Human Resources under Governor Gerald Baliles, where she oversaw 17 agencies and launched one of the nation’s first confidential AIDS testing and counseling programs. Her leadership also guided Virginia’s largest-ever community mental health initiative.

Hardy later served as a trusted adviser to Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, as well as Governor Terry McAuliffe. She represented the U.S. at the 1994 peace treaty signing between Israel and Jordan and spent 20 years at Dominion Energy as Executive Vice President of Public Policy and Communications. Her leadership reflects an unwavering commitment to public service, mental health, diplomacy and civic responsibility.

Rev. Tyler C. Millner Sr.

Rev. Tyler C. Millner Sr. was honored for more than 50 years of leadership in community and political activism. A lifelong advocate for equity, he devoted his ministry to uplifting underserved voices and ensuring inclusive civic engagement across Virginia.

Inspired by the vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Millner worked to build a “beloved community” grounded in compassion and justice. After the King holiday was established, Virginia Union University selected him to lead the university’s official celebration. He went on to found Community Learning Week—now Living the Dream—which became Richmond’s official King holiday observance and a national model for community commemoration and social impact.

Robert David Sr., City of Danville

Robert David Sr. was honored for creating Project Imagine, Danville’s award-winning community violence prevention program. As the city’s violence prevention manager, David launched the initiative in 2018 to support high-risk and gang-affiliated youth with employment training, mentorship and life skills development.

The nine-week program helped more than 165 young people transition off the streets and pursue pathways to employment and education. The initiative became a model for small cities nationwide, recognized for its effectiveness, replicability, and human-centered approach.

David, also an author and motivational speaker, was celebrated for his relationship-building, strategic thinking and lifelong dedication to youth empowerment.

Not awarded in 2025.

Mark Greenough

Mark Greenough, Supervisor of Capitol Guides, was honored for more than two decades of service interpreting and preserving the history of Virginia’s Capitol. Appointed to his role in 2002, Greenough led public tours that illuminated the stories, milestones and architectural details of “Mr. Jefferson’s Capitol.”

With just an hour to present more than 200 years of history, Greenough crafted narratives that highlighted the building’s design, its political legacy, and the critical roles of women and African Americans. Known for his deep knowledge and engaging style, he tailored each tour to its audience—earning a reputation for excellence among citizens, students and state leaders alike.