Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Excellence in Education at 2026 Educator Excellence Brunch & Awards
June 25th, 2026
FREDERICKSBURG, VA (June 23, 2026) – The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce proudly honored outstanding educators from across the region during the 2026 Educator Appreciation Brunch & Awards held June 23rd, 2026 at the Fredericksburg Convention Center.
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The annual event recognizes the incredible teachers, educators, and administrators who are shaping the future through leadership, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to student success. Their work extends far beyond the classroom, helping to develop the future workforce that will drive the region’s economy and strengthen the business community for years to come.
Educators representing Caroline County, King George County, Spotsylvania County, Stafford County, the City of Fredericksburg, Germanna Community College, and the University of Mary Washington were recognized for their commitment to excellence and their positive impact on students throughout the region.
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“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 of 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.”
Awards were presented in several categories recognizing excellence in education:
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Rising Star Award
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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 Teaching Award
  • Christy McDonald- Post Oak Middle School
  • Nicole Knight- Spotsylvania High School
  • Karen Bingham- Falls Run Elementary School
Visionary Leadership Award
  • 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
  • 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 Award
  • Lisa Lewis- Hugh Mercer Elementary School
Lifetime Achievement Award
  • Richard Yost- Fredericksburg Christian School
The Educator Excellence Brunch & Awards serves as a celebration of the vital role educators play in preparing students for future careers, fostering innovation, and building strong communities throughout the Fredericksburg region.
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The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce extends its congratulations to all award recipients and gratitude to the school divisions, higher education institutions, sponsors, and community partners who support educational excellence throughout the region.
To view photos of this event and learn more click here
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About The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce:
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber is the diverse business hub for the fastest growing region in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Our members include small and large businesses, nonprofits, governments, and educational institutions. We build relationships and create competitive advantages for a healthy business environment. We do this through leadership, access, innovation, advocacy, and connections. www.fredericksburgchamber.org/