1 10 175 https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/fe3f4155d5dda8c1136c6c0c8f3c847c.jpg 255b1986a1a7ca294650e1ccf904a863 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1956 Birthplace Chesapeake Occupation Corporate Attorney Biographical Text Chesapeake native Sharon Bowen attended the University of Virginia on a full academic scholarship, graduating in 1978 with a bachelor’s degree in economics before earning a law degree and an M.B.A. from Northwestern University. Focusing on such financial fields as private equity, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate restructuring, she forged a path uncommon for women or African Americans as a corporate law firm partner. Having grown up in a small, segregated community, Bowen advocates for the fundamental value of workplace diversity and is driven to mentor those who are underrepresented in her field. Since 2018, she has been a partner of Seneca Women, an organization that focuses on advancing women and thought leadership. With more than three decades of leadership in legal, financial and public policy institutions, Bowen was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2010 as vice chair for the Securities Investor Protection Corporation, of which she became acting chair in 2012. In 2014 she was named commissioner of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The first African-American commissioner, Bowen directed its market risk advisory committee. Three years later she was appointed to the board of directors of Intercontinental Exchange Inc., and in 2021 Bowen became chair of the New York Stock Exchange, the first woman and person of color to hold that position in the exchange’s history. Bowen serves on the boards of investment and technology firms. She has been recognized with numerous honors, including the 2022 Women in Derivatives Luminary Lifetime Achievement Award. She was inducted into the Futures Industry Association Hall of Fame in 2022. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2026">2026</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of NYSE Group. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Sharon Y. Bowen Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource As chair of the New York Stock Exchange, Sharon Bowen has blazed a path in corporate America for women and African Americans. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2026 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Business and Entrepreneurship https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/da3f6570ca3dcfe1700c5985ac88b9f1.jpg d8d5379d09a6152ccdf92a2b5119bb71 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1932 Birthplace Arlington County Death Date 2024 Occupation United States Army Officer Biographical Text William Hughes Dillard grew up in Martinsville, Virginia, where he was valedictorian of the first graduating class at the segregated Albert Harris High School. He was commissioned as a lieutenant in the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corp (ROTC) at Virginia State College (now Virginia State University), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1953. Trained at the Army Aviation School at Fort Rucker, Alabama, as a fixed-wing pilot and later a helicopter pilot, he served two tours in Vietnam. During his second tour Dillard commanded the 269th Combat Aviation Battalion and later the 145th Combat Aviation Battalion, the latter modernizing the Vietnamese Air Force’s contingent of helicopters. After his overseas deployments, Dillard served in the office of the deputy assistant secretary of defense at the Pentagon. His military education included the Command and General Staff College and the United States Army War College. Dillard remained at the Pentagon during his last active-duty assignment as chief of the Europe/Africa Division of the Defense Security Assistance Agency in the Department of Defense. After 32 years of distinguished service, Dillard retired in 1985 with the rank of colonel, with service medals that included the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, multiple Bronze Stars and Air Service Medals, and the Defense Superior Service Medal. He continued his lifetime of public service in his Arlington County community, where he sat on planning committees for Arlington Public Schools, volunteered with the Northern Virginia Special Olympics, and served as a deacon at Mount Zion Baptist Church. Colonel Dillard was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Nominated by Peter Dillard. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2026">2026</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Peter Dillard. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William Hughes Dillard Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2026 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Description An account of the resource In a long and distinguished career in the United States Army, Colonel William Hughes Dillard honorably served his country at home and abroad. Military https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/1dd83fa17dbe34fbaf22e9b85b54354f.jpg adb7a16ec0474acd96eb1a6bdcf0ccc0 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1947 Birthplace Harrisonburg Occupation Civil Rights Pioneer Biographical Text Sheary Darcus Johnson grew up in Harrisonburg, where she sang in the choir of her father’s church and attended the city’s segregated schools, which lacked sufficient educational resources and experienced teachers compared to schools for white students. A determined student who sought academic challenges, she persuaded her father to petition the city’s school board for her enrollment at Harrisonburg High School. Johnson and other Black students integrated the school in 1964. Two years later she received early acceptance to Madison College (now James Madison University), which that year also became a fully coeducational institution. An off-campus resident, she was a member of Madison’s concert choir. In 1970, Johnson became the first Black undergraduate to earn a degree at Madison College when she received her B.A. in library science. She went on to earn a master’s degree in elementary education there in 1974. After working as an elementary school librarian in Harrisonburg from 1970 to 1978, Johnson and her family moved to Richmond, and she served as the head librarian at the high school in Hopewell. Continuing her studies, Johnson completed an Ed.D. at the University of Virginia in 1988, and taught library science at Virginia Commonwealth University. A lifelong member of the Church of God in Christ, she established Victory Family Worship Center with her husband, directed the Victory Academy of Early Learning, and founded Better People Inc., a community education program, in addition to writing two self-help books. In 2021, James Madison University renamed the Justice Studies building in Sheary Darcus Johnson’s honor. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2026">2026</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Bobby Russell. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Sheary Darcus Johnson Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2026 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Description An account of the resource The first Black student to earn an undergraduate degree at James Madison University, Sheary D. Johnson seeks to help those in her community reach their full potential. Civil Rights and Reform https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/1a16c67e9449deea453725c84af8ccf9.jpg c00a3631280a2c1ebfcd3748d717fb77 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1931 Birthplace Richmond Occupation Public Health Advocate Biographical Text Florence Neal Cooper Smith first learned about sickle cell disease as a child while reading books in her doctor’s office during the 1940s. After graduating in 1951 with a biology degree from Virginia Union University, she started a career as a medical technician specializing in burn research at the Medical College of Virginia (MCV, now VCU Medical Center). Spurred by her interest in sickle cell anemia, a genetic blood disorder that causes crippling pain episodes, she later completed graduate studies in pathology at MCV. In 1969 she organized Richmond’s first citywide survey to determine public awareness about sickle cell disease. After passage of the 1972 National Sickle Cell Anemia Control Act, she co-founded the Virginia Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness Program at MCV, one of the original 19 federally funded sickle-cell screening clinics in the nation. Regarded as the “Mother of Sickle Cell Disease” in Virginia, Smith and her advocacy helped pave the way in 1989 for the mandatory statewide testing of the disease in all newborns. Since retiring as program director in 1995, Smith has continued to advocate for a better understanding of and increased funding for the study of sickle cell disease at the local, state and national levels. In 2014, the MCV Foundation established the Florence Neal Cooper Smith Professorship, one of the few named for an African-American woman in the United States, to support cutting-edge research aimed at finding a cure for sickle cell disease. Nominated by Paul Brockwell Jr. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2026">2026</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Florence Neal Cooper Smith. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Florence Neal Cooper Smith Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Description An account of the resource Florence Neal Cooper Smith has been a tireless advocate for the public awareness and treatment of sickle cell disease at the local, state and national levels. Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/870e357eca43bc02c21da7bec07c12e2.jpg d305f9007d4b55a1ebe10f6acaf140a7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1964 Birthplace Winchester Occupation Lieutenant Governor Biographical Text A trailblazer in Virginia politics, Winsome Earle-Sears was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and grew up in New York. In 1983 she joined the United States Marine Corps and was the only woman in her engineering class. Rising to the rank of corporal, Earle-Sears also became an American citizen. She credits the Marine Corps with instilling the self-discipline and leadership that shape her today. Earle-Sears settled in the Norfolk area and continued serving her community through her work in directing a women’s homeless shelter and leading a men’s prison ministry. She earned an associate degree from Tidewater Community College, a bachelor’s degree in English from Old Dominion University in 1992, and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Regent University in 2003. In 2001 she won election to a single two-year term representing a district comprising the cities of Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach in the House of Delegates. Earle-Sears served on the Advisory Committee on Women Veterans for the Department of Veterans Affairs. An advocate for the power of education to improve lives, she was appointed to the State Board of Education in 2011, and was elected its vice president in 2014. In her historic race for lieutenant governor of Virginia, Earle-Sears, who also owned and operated a business in Winchester, campaigned on issues related to education, criminal justice and veterans affairs. Winning election in 2021, Earle-Sears became the first woman elected lieutenant governor and the first Black woman and female veteran to hold statewide office in Virginia. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2025">2025</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. <a href="https://vimeo.com/1051652219/29c54d4afc">Watch Winsome Earle-Sears's recorded remarks</a> shown at the Dominion Energy reception honoring the 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees on February 6, 2025. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Winsome Earle-Sears Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Inspired by her service in the Marine Corps, Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears became the first Black woman to hold state office in Virginia. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Government and Law https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/bdda8a121c07528118722172dde3cb3a.jpg 1a6e5f7d50233b0e611bf7c555298568 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1980 Birthplace Chesterfield County Occupation Composer, Conductor & Bass-Baritone Biographical Text Damien Geter is an acclaimed American composer who infuses classical music with various styles from the Black diaspora to create works that further the cause of social justice. Born in Petersburg, he grew up in a musical family in Chesterfield County. After graduating with honors from Matoaca High School, he received an undergraduate degree in music education from Old Dominion University in 2002 and a Master of Music degree in conducting from Indiana State University in 2004. A bass-baritone, Geter has sung with opera companies around the country, including the Metropolitan Opera. Geter’s works include compositions for chamber and orchestra, vocal ensemble and opera. In May 2025, the world premiere of his new major opera, “Loving v. Virginia,” concludes the Virginia Opera’s 50th anniversary season. Based on the true story of Mildred and Richard Loving and their landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that struck down state laws banning interracial marriage, the opera is co-commissioned by the Virginia Opera and the Richmond Symphony, and co-produced by the Virginia Opera and the Minnesota Opera. Another new opera of Geter’s, “Delta King’s Blues,” commissioned by IN Series, will also premiere in 2025. His song, “Amanirenas,” commissioned by soprano Karen Slack for her African Queens art song program, is touring nationally. Future commissions include world premieres with the Richmond Symphony and Nathaniel Dett Chorale, as well as a new operatic production at Portland Opera in 2026. In addition to owning DG Music, Sans Fear Publishing, Geter serves as interim music director and artistic advisor at the Portland Opera and is the Richmond Symphony’s composer-in-residence through 2026. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2025">2025</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. <a href="https://vimeo.com/1053137512/4115ef3f1b">Watch Damien Geter's recorded remarks</a> shown at the Dominion Energy reception honoring the 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees on February 6, 2025. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Damien Geter, photography by Rachel Hadaishar. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Damien Geter Description An account of the resource Composer Damien Geter writes music centered around social justice and civil rights. Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Arts and Literature https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/3d06cd5c8425eedef8a6ed0de25d4d12.jpg 5ccdd83713cb452a046ff9caacaf8427 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1984 Birthplace Fairfax County Occupation Forensic Scientist Biographical Text Encouraged by her parents to explore whatever sparked her interest, Kelly L. Knight became passionate for all things related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She received a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from George Washington University in 2006, and two years later, a master’s degree in forensic science from Virginia Commonwealth University. For almost a decade, she worked in forensic DNA laboratories in Virginia and with the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, where she qualified as an expert in criminal proceedings.  Her research expertise is in forensic serology and LCN (low copy number) DNA analysis methods. Turning to a career in higher education, Knight became a professor of forensic science at George Mason University, where she is also completing a doctorate in science education with a research focus on inclusive STEM pedagogies. In addition to guiding undergraduate students in the forensic science program, she co-founded and directs Females of Color and those Underrepresented in STEM (FOCUS), an outreach program intended to inspire middle- and high-school girls from Black, Indigenous and other communities of color to pursue careers in scientific fields. She has worked on numerous campus-wide initiatives related to diversity, equity, and social justice, such as the school's Anti-Racism and Inclusive Excellence Taskforce. Determined to transform expectations of who can be a scientist, Knight has built a strong social media presence to share her love of science. An American Academy of Forensic Sciences Fellow, Knight received George Mason's Teaching Excellence Award in 2020 and the Presidential Faculty Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion in 2024. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2025">2025</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. <a href="https://vimeo.com/1053442590/390c266857">Watch Kelly L. Knight's recorded remarks</a> shown at the Dominion Energy reception honoring the 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees on February 6, 2025. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Kelly L. Knight. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Kelly L. Knight Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Professor Kelly L. Knight uses her expertise in forensic science and her passion for mentoring to inspire the pursuit of STEM careers in underrepresented communities. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/774ae566fbd39e8ef510c0f232c9785f.jpg 48514621d078917d4a127646b0f3e5f8 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1965 Birthplace Portsmouth Occupation Legislator and Speaker of the House of Delegates Biographical Text Don Scott grew up in Texas with five brothers and sisters who were raised by his single mother. He worked his way through college, earning a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University in 1987. He joined the Navy and served on a destroyer as both a surface warfare officer and the ship’s legal officer, which inspired him to study law at Louisiana State University after leaving active duty in 1991. In 2002, Scott found employment with a workforce development company that brought him to Norfolk, where he provided job training and support for recipients of public assistance. He sought to return to the law, passed the Virginia bar exam in 2014 and was admitted to the bar a year later. In 2015, he opened his own law practice. Scott entered public life when he decided to run for the House of Delegates representing the city of Portsmouth. Since that first election in 2019, he has had a meteoric rise from freshman to Minority Leader by his second term. After Democrats won the majority in 2023, Scott was unanimously selected by his colleagues as the first Black Speaker of the House of Delegates in the 405-year history of Virginia’s legislature. Scott has made his mark running a tight ship and is known for being efficient and tough but fair to his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2025">2025</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. <a href="https://vimeo.com/1051945770/539b116da6">Watch Don Scott's recorded remarks</a> shown at the Dominion Energy reception honoring the 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees on February 6, 2025. Bibliography Photograph courtesy Commonwealth of Virginia. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Don Scott Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource The first Black Speaker of the House of Delegates, Don Scott advocates for increased opportunities for all Virginians. Government and Law https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/3d6964203616453d243183ca231e55ff.jpg 5108b1bcfc1f5f4f34dd44e94207243d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1960 Birthplace Manassas Occupation NASA Project Director Biographical Text Gregory L. Robinson experienced the challenges of desegregation in his Pittsylvania County schools, where he was also encouraged by dedicated and supportive teachers to further his love of math and science. With a football scholarship to Virginia Union University, he earned a degree in math along with a dual degree in electrical engineering at Howard University in 1983. Inspired by the experiences of several classmates, Robinson later joined the staff of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). He held various leadership positions at Goddard Space Flight Center, Glenn Research Center, and at NASA headquarters in the Science Mission Directorate. He has helped develop satellites to study the sun and systems for the space shuttle program and for missions to Mars. In 2018, NASA named Robinson director for the James Webb Space Telescope Program. A massive undertaking that included international teams of more than 10,000 scientists, engineers, and others, the telescope project faced technical difficulties and was behind schedule and over budget. Robinson’s leadership enabled the completion of NASA’s most complex space science observatory with the launch in December 2021 of the Webb telescope. This immensely powerful telescope has provided stunning data and discoveries about our solar system, the formation of stars and planets, and the evolution of galaxies in ways that have never before been possible. Robinson retired to his home in Manassas in July 2022, but continues to share his leadership strategies as a lecturer at Columbia University. Throughout his career Robinson has received numerous honors, including being named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2022. Nominated by Tony R. King, Prince George County. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2024">2024</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of NASA. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Gregory L. Robinson Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Gregory L. Robinson oversaw the completion and launch of NASA’s transformational James Webb Space Telescope. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2024 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/542845eaac721ebe21157d2f2daaeb5f.jpg 495328a115cc9f37194a662aa84201b6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1946 Birthplace Mecklenburg County Occupation Dentist Biographical Text Dr. Erma L. Freeman was a passionate student growing up in Mecklenburg County, where she learned the value of taking pride in the quality of her work from her parents and her teachers. After graduating from St. Paul’s College in Lawrenceville and earning a master’s degree in biology at Virginia State College (now Virginia State University) in 1969, she taught school in Lynchburg for four years. With an interest in health care, she enrolled at the Medical College of Virginia (now Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry) to study dentistry. She was one of fewer than 10 women and fewer than 10 African Americans in the program of over 400 students, and in 1977 she became the first Black woman to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the college. Dr. Freeman operated her own practice near Petersburg for 20 years before working as a dentist for the Virginia Department of Corrections. Throughout her career she stressed the importance of good dental care to her patients’ overall physical and mental health. In 1993, Freeman was the first Black woman dentist appointed to the Virginia Board of Dentistry, and in 1994 she was the second Black woman to serve as president of the Old Dominion Dental Society. Since retiring, she has continued to educate communities in Mecklenburg and southern Virginia about dental hygiene and provided pediatric dental exams with the Colgate Dental Van. By engaging with children in minority communities, she hopes to inspire young people to believe they can achieve their goals regardless of their backgrounds and to not be limited by circumstances. In 2019 the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry honored Freeman with its First 100 Dentists of Color Trailblazer Award. Nominated by Sherri Bagley, Lawrenceville. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2024">2024</a> Strong Men and Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Krystal Pearson. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Dr. Erma L. Freeman Subject The topic of the resource 2024 Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource The first Black woman to earn a dental degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Erma L. Freeman strives to increase diversity in the dental profession. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2024 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Community Leadership and Philanthropy Science and Medicine