Mapping and Uncovering African American Heritage in Central Virginia Join us for an illuminating afternoon featuring two groundbreaking research projects exploring African American history in our region. Part 1: African and African-Descended Histories at Germanna Archaeological excavation at Gordon Plantation site Kelly Arford-Horne, Archaeology Site Director, and Jennifer Hurst-Wender, Executive Director of Historic Germanna, will share discoveries about the Gordon family's remarkable journey from enslavement to freedom and their migration to Liberia. Learn about recent archaeological findings that reveal the daily lives of enslaved people at the Gordon Plantation site, and how this research expands our understanding of 19th-century African American experiences in Orange County. Historical document of Gordon family manumission Part 2: Roots to Routes - Black Heritage Across Nine Counties George Monroe Jr., Executive Director of the Montpelier Descendants Committee, together with Dr. Andrea Roberts and her team from the UVA Center for Cultural Landscapes, will present their innovative digital mapping project. Discover how they're documenting historic Black spaces and connecting with descendant families around James Madison's Montpelier. Learn how you can contribute your own family stories to this growing digital archive of Black history.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 19th, 2024 Celebrate the Eclipse Awards Class of 2024 A Physician/Musician, a Nurse, a Radio Disc Jockey, a Church volunteer and historian, an Advocate for our public schools, a Chef, and a Winemaker

Theresa Collins Williams embodies the spirit of service and compassion. She also places great importance on preserving and celebrating African American cultural heritage. For 20 years, she has been chair of Blue Run Baptist Church’s Black History Month Program, an educational and celebratory event highlighting the history and talents of church members and guests. She brings history to life, ensuring the younger generation understands and appreciates their roots. At Blue Run Baptist, Theresa is also a deaconess, treasurer, and choir member. She always makes time for her family, sharing Sunday dinners filled with laughter and stories from the past. Her home is a testament to her love for history, adorned with photographs and memorabilia that tell the rich story of her life and the lives she has touched. She often says that her greatest achievement is the love and respect she receives from her community, which she holds dear to her heart. After graduating from George Washington Carver Regional High School, Theresa worked for Marion duPont Scott at Montpelier, conveniently located next door to Jacksontown, her lifelong community. From Montpelier, she joined American Woodmark where she worked for 32 years before retiring. Theresa remains hopeful for the future, believing in the power of kindness and dedication to making the world a better place. Her life is a testament to the difference one individual can make, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and continue the legacy of service and compassion.

Alyssa Waller is a passionate, hard-working woman who puts passion and care for others into everything she does. As a mother of two sons, she believes the history of African Americans needs to be passed onto future generations and that African American history is inadequately addressed in our educational system. Black History Month prompts obligatory Black History programs, but the significance of Black History merits deeper inclusion in our curriculum, and rectifying historical inaccuracies is paramount. To this end, Alyssa has taken the initiative to press this matter with the Orange County School Board. By enlightening an adult audience, she hopes a ripple effect will foster dialogue about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Alyssa is a board member of the Orange County Academic Scholar Institute (ASI), dedicated to helping young men of color graduate from high school and pursue college matriculation and successful careers. She has also served on the Minority Advisory Board and the Minority Task Force for Orange County Public Schools. She is also a member of the Orange County Branch of the NAACP, serving on the youth committee. Alyssa was twice honored with the OCPS “Above and Beyond” award. Former Superintendent Brenda Tanner called her the “unofficial school mom of OC.” In 2022, she co-hosted the first Multicultural Festival in Orange County. Within the UVA community, Alyssa is part of the Black Faculty and Staff Employee Resource Group, Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI), and DEI Committee for the Pediatrics Department.

Robert “JD Slade” Wade has served over 50 years as an Orange County radio disc jockey and host on WJMA. At just sixteen, Bob entered the WJMA radio station, expressing his desire to become a disc jockey. Bob recalls that the preparation was far from glamorous. He spent months reading copy into a microphone to work on pronunciation. After persistent effort, Bob finally got his chance to go on air. He has since hosted over 10,000 morning shows across the United States, working at WTON in Staunton, as a music director at Culpeper’s WCVA, and at WFIC in Philadelphia for eight years before returning to Orange as J. D. Slade. Bob has become a beloved figure in the community, known for his distinctive voice, engaging on-air presence, and genuine connection with listeners. He has seen many changes in the industry, from the advent of digital streaming to the consolidation of radio networks. Yet, he remains a steadfast advocate for local content, ensuring that the voices and stories of Orange County are heard, fostering a sense of community and belonging. His show was more than just a source of information; it was a daily ritual for many, starting their day on a positive note. Bob credits his success to the support of his family, friends, and loyal listeners. He is excited to continue his journey in radio, embracing new technologies while staying true to the heart of what makes his show special: the people.

Denise Thompson is the owner of Coopers Cookin and Catering LLC. Her commitment to service is reflected in the events and initiatives she proudly organizes each year. The Annual Community Give Back Day event brings the community together to support and uplift one another. She also uses this event to thank patrons for their continued support throughout the year. Her business celebrates the community with good food and amazing entertainment totally FREE to the public. Denise also hosts an annual Christmas Day Feed the Homeless event that provides a hot meal to those less fortunate, ensuring that no one feels alone for the holiday season. Beyond these events, Denise is dedicated to supporting our local heroes and youth through donations to the rescue squad, free clinic, and contributions to our school athletic department. These efforts reflect her deep belief that when we come together as a community, we can overcome any challenge and build a brighter future for all. Denise is grateful and humbled to be nominated alongside such inspiring people. She is proud of the work she does and the impact it has on the community. This recognition is encouragement to continue serving and investing in the lives of others, staying true to the belief that giving back is not just an act of kindness but a responsibility we all share.

Jennifer, also known as "Wendy" Rivas, is a compassionate and kind individual with a warm and infectious laughter that radiates joy. Her positive energy and uplifting presence leave a lasting impact on everyone she encounters. Known for her exceptional caregiving skills, Wendy consistently goes above and beyond in her role. Her dedication led to her being awarded the 2023 Being Excellent Everyday (BEE) Award by the Nursing Professional Governance Office. This award recognizes outstanding support team members who collaborate with nursing teams to provide expert and compassionate care. Wendy's unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch care to her patients sets her apart from her colleagues. She treats everyone with dignity and kindness, irrespective of their race, gender, or abilities. Sharing her faith brings her immense joy, especially during her work at the hospital, where she spreads positivity and comfort. As a valued member of the UVA medical center team, Wendy's contributions have not gone unnoticed. Patients, families, colleagues, and the community all appreciate her efforts and the light she brings into their lives.

Dena Jennings, D.O. is a luthier, musician, writer, Virginia Master Naturalist, and Internal Medicine physician with certification in Ayurvedic practice. In addition to over 30 years of medical practice, she completed a 4-year apprenticeship in Ontario, Canada, to build gourd instruments of cultures around the world.