2025 Excellence in Community Engagement Awards
May 13, 2025 | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM | Biotech One - Founders Conference Room
Presented by the Council for Community Engagement Grants and Awards Committee in the Division of Community Engagement, these annual awards recognize individuals and groups who exemplify the spirit of meaningful, collaborative, and impactful community engagement at VCU and beyond.
Award Categories and Winners:
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Transformative Educational Experience
Dr. Kendra Johnson, Assistant Professor and Anna Lou Schaberg Endowed Professor of Practice
Recognized for her student-centered, community-rooted teaching approach that uplifts and inspires through care, connection, and educational access. -
Community-Engaged Research Partnership
Dr. Alex Wagaman, Associate Professor, School of Social Work
Honored for research that centers dignity, equity, and advocacy through long-standing partnerships with marginalized communities. -
Demonstrated Impact in Community Partnership
Dr. David Naff, Assistant Professor, School of Education and Director, Metropolitan Educational Research Consortium (MERC)
Celebrated for research-practice partnerships with local school divisions that address real-world educational challenges and inform policy. -
Outstanding Community Engagement by a Student or Group of Students
Personalized Exploration for College Success (PECS)
Commended for student-led mentorship and college access initiatives that support high school students in realizing their academic potential. -
Outstanding Community Partner
Friends of East End
Recognized for over a decade of community-driven work to restore, preserve, and honor Richmond’s historic cemeteries through inclusive volunteerism and collaboration.
Photo Gallery
Photos by Jadon Rowson