Community College Philanthropists Honored with Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy

Richmond – Mrs. Carolyn A. Lemon, of Gloucester, Virginia, has received the 19^th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. She was nominated for the award by Rappahannock Community College.

Hosted by the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE), more than two dozen individuals, families, and organizations were honored with the Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. The awards were presented at a luncheon ceremony in Richmond on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.

For the past 20 years, Carolyn Lemon has served on the board of the RCC Educational Foundation, where she has been a tireless advocate, fundraiser, and community connector. Her commitment extends beyond fundraising; she has successfully connected the Foundation’s work to the broader community by introducing energetic and impactful new board members. Additionally, Mrs. Lemon has tutored RCC students. Her passion for education is further demonstrated by her establishment of the CAL scholarship at RCC, providing financial support to deserving students.

VCCS Chancellor Dr. David Doré commented that a culture of care can have a profound impact on student performance. “When our students realize that someone cares enough to help remove the formidable obstacles standing in their way, it’s life-changing,” he said. “The things they thought impossible suddenly become doable, and their confidence soars as a result.”

RCC President Dr. Shannon Kennedy lauded Mrs. Lemon, saying, “We are incredibly fortunate to have Carolyn as a part of our community, and her contributions make her a standout candidate for this prestigious award.”

This year’s class of distinguished philanthropy leaders has collectively contributed $24 million dollars to Virginia’s Community Colleges.

Recipients of the Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy:

Blue Ridge Cadence, Inc. Brightpoint Pamela M. Comstock Central Virginia Delta Star, Inc. Danville The late Melvin C. Vernon, Jr. and Mrs. Jean Carol Harper Vernon Eastern Shore John Custis Germanna Mary Washington Health Care Laurel Ridge Dr. Brent L. Kendrick Mountain Empire JC “Clay” Stiles Mountain Gateway The late Dr. Raymond L. Claterbaugh, Jr. New River The Lunch Pail Defense Foundation – Bud Foster Northern Virginia Microsoft Patrick & Henry Darrell Bowling Paul D. Camp Truist Foundation Piedmont Virginia Smith Vicars Family Foundation Rappahannock Carolyn A. Lemon Reynolds The late William R. Hendley Southside Virginia Benchmark Community Bank Southwest Virginia Randall Hillman Tidewater Dan Banister Virginia Highlands The Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia Virginia Peninsula Sentara Foundation Virginia Western Mary Ann Steger Conrad Wytheville Twin County Community Foundation VFCCE Gilliam Family Foundation