MLWGS Junior Wins 2026 Strong Men & Women in VA History Student Contest

Strong Men & Women crop

High school students in Virginia were invited last fall to honor outstanding African Americans by participating in Dominion Energy and the Library of Virginia’s Strong Men & Women in Virginia History student contest. This year’s contest is built around the inquiry process of project-based learning and is designed to hit grade-specific standards through a multidisciplinary approach. Students used and developed creative and critical thinking skills as they clearly communicated contemporary issues that concern them.

Congratulations to our own Vrinda Shah (’27-Henrico), who was selected as a finalist. Vrinda received an Apple MacBook Air and $2,000 for Maggie Walker Governor’s School, accepted by teacher Jennifer McLaughlin, on Wednesday, February 11th, at the Richmond Marriott downtown.

Click here to read Vrinda’s essay honoring Dr. Gladys West, whose groundbreaking contributions to GPS technology have advanced the ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness by expanding mobility, safety, and opportunity for millions across the globe. 

Pictures and video of the gala event and its honorees are shared here, courtesy of Ms. McLauglin.

Executive Director’s Snapshot

View updates by Kristin Janssen for this academic year.

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