Virginia Library Association 2025 Award Winners

The Awards & Recognition Committee of the Virginia Library Association has selected winners for the 2025 association awards. Library workers and library project teams from academic, public, and special libraries across the Commonwealth are honored for their exemplary contributions to their communities and profession in 2024. The winners are:

• Academic Innovator Award: Heidi Blackburn, Chris Magee, and Trevor Watkins; George Mason University Libraries
• Advocacy Award: Samuels Public Library
• Donna G. Cote Librarian of the Year: Kelli Stephenson, Chesterfield Public Library
• Friends of the Library Award: Friends of Chinn Park Library, Prince William Public Libraries
• 
Intellectual Freedom Advocacy Award: Lorena Jordan and Wendy Mann, George Mason University Libraries
• Intellectual Freedom Promotion Award: Liz Bellamy and Rachel N. Hogan, William & Mary Libraries
• Librarian of Color Forum Award: Angela Gaskins, Chesapeake Public Library
• Outstanding Professional Associates Award: Kelvin Ellis, Suffolk Public Library
• Public Library Innovator Award: Erin Creighton, Craig Graziano, Kristi Lisech, and Josie Wold; Central Rappahannock Regional Library
• 
Trustee Library Award: C Paul Brockwell Jr, The Library of Virginia
• Up and Comer Award: Brea Gilliam, VLA Librarian of Color Forum Chair
• Virginia Library of the Year: Massanutten Regional Library
• VLAPAF Supporters of Professional Associates Award: Eileen Grady, Samuels Public Library
• Honorary Life Membership: Lisa Varga, American Library Association

All Virginia Library Association award winners will be honored at the Awards Reception of the VLA Annual Conference at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at the Richmond Marriott in conjunction with the VLA Annual Conference. For details about each winner and their accomplishments, please view below. Quotes from the winning nominations are included in italics.

Academic Innovator Award

Heidi Blackburn, Chris Magee, and Trevor Watkins won for their project, the AI Salon Series, which brings community members together to discuss current events and intersectional topics surrounding artificial intelligence.

Dr. Heidi Blackburn is the Computing Librarian at George Mason University Libraries, where she provides research support and instructional services to faculty, staff, and students in Computer Science, Information Science and Technology, Game Design, Statistics, the Institute for Digital InnoVation, and the Virginia Serious Game Institute. Her research focuses on advancing support for women in STEM fields within higher education and exploring the integration of artificial intelligence in academic libraries. She served as chair of the Mason Libraries Artificial Intelligence Tools Task Force (2023–2024), contributes to the Mason Libraries AI Advisory Council, and founded the AI Salon Series—an interdisciplinary program designed to facilitate dialogue around current events and intersectional topics related to artificial intelligence. Dr. Blackburn’s work reflects a commitment to inclusive innovation, strategic collaboration, and the evolving role of libraries.

Chris Magee is one of the Social Sciences Librarians at George Mason University Libraries, serving the Criminology Law and Society, Sport Recreation and Tourism Management programs as well as the Carter School for Peace and Conflict Studies.  He has his BA in Political Science and MS in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University, and MLIS from University of Tennessee - Knoxville.  His focus in emerging and existing technologies, notably Zotero, has led him to his interest in generative AI and outreach and support thereof.   He has been a part of the George Mason University Libraries Salon Series, and AI Community of Practice since their foundation.

Trevor Watkins is the Teaching and Outreach Librarian at George Mason University. He leads a mini team of two staff members on the Teaching and Learning Team, which engages in teaching, special projects, outreach, and library programming for George Mason University Libraries. His research interests include Artificial Intelligence (AI), AI literacy, Virtual (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), digital sustainability, and human-AI interaction. He is a professional member of ALA, IASSIST, IEEE, and ACM (SIGAI, SIGCSE). He is an international scholar in AI and is involved in many national grant-funded projects as either the technical lead, consultant, or advisor. He also consults with public and academic libraries worldwide about their technology needs and AI. His current projects include the Black Squirrel GNU/Linux operating system and Cosmology of Artificial Intelligence.

“Heidi, Trevor, and Chris continue to meet the growing demand for comprehensive and engaging education on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence with urgency and an inviting spirit of collaboration. Their AI Salon Series has become a premiere outreach effort of our University Libraries network at George Mason University."

"Attendees are able to participate in open discussions about data privacy, data visualization, and coded biases within data sets from varied perspectives. These programs have emphasized the need for diverse voices, promoting inclusivity across identities and lived experiences. This team has advocated for equitable access to AI resources”

Advocacy Award

With a rich history dating back to 1799, Samuels Public Library has provided public access to literature and learning to the County of Warren in the Town of Front Royal thanks to the support of its community. What started out as the second subscription library in Virginia has now evolved into a vibrant community hub that continues to expand upon its resources, services, and programming to increase equitable access to literacy and educational opportunities.

Samuels Library is a one-branch public library that directly serves more than 41,000 people in Warren County. In the last fiscal year, Samuels Library saw more than 132,000 visitors, over 400,000 checkouts, and hosted over 900 programs that welcomed more than 20,000 attendees. This reflects the Library’s dedication to community engagement and literacy initiatives – and even in the face of complete withdrawal of local government funding, effective July 1, 2025, the Library continues to keep its doors open and thrive as a vital community resource, advocating for public libraries, the freedom to read, and the right to information access.

“Samuels Public Library, with professionalism and resilience, has been defying the odds of the national wave of book ban challenges that threaten many libraries with defunding and closure”.

“Samuels Public Library is an exemplary candidate for the Advocacy Award, as it has chosen courage and perseverance, and continues to be a beacon of knowledge and light through the unprecedented surge of book bans that have targeted libraries for offering inclusive selections of books with diverse representations. Samuels Public Library is proof that libraries and other educational institutions targeted by book bans can persevere through these challenging times and advocate for a better future where all knowledge and information is accessible to everyone.”

 Donna G. Cote Librarian of the Year

Kelli Stephenson is a Librarian at Bon Air Library in Chesterfield County, just across the river from Richmond, Virginia. They have worked in libraries for over 7 years and earned their MLIS from UNC Greensboro. Kelli has a variety of work experience that influence their approach to librarianship, including running the library service desk at Duke University, flipping burgers in Yellowstone National Park, queering the classics with 10th graders in public schools, and slicing bagels in Traverse City, Michigan. These days, they're obsessed with picture books and are most passionate about early literacy services. Outside of the library, they love to build modular LEGO® sets and travel with their extremely brilliant and attractive partner.

As a queer person born and raised in rural North Carolina, they understand firsthand the necessity of stories to survive. This principle informs every aspect of their work in libraries, which--at their best--serve as a conduit to information and imagination.

“Kelli Stephenson exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding librarian through unwavering dedication to professional growth, community engagement, and innovative programming."

“Has helped shape strategic efforts that enhance library services and resources, reinforcing commitment to both their institution and the broader library profession”.

“Ability to adapt programming to different populations showcases their creativity and responsiveness to community needs, ensuring that library services remain accessible and relevant to all. These initiatives reflect their deep understanding of the library’s role as a vital community hub, embodying the spirit of public librarianship at its best”.

“A champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Kelli has used their platform to elevate underrepresented voices and foster a welcoming environment for all patrons”.

Friends of the Library Award

The Friends of the Chinn Park Regional Library is a vibrant, dedicated volunteer organization with 175 active members committed to enhancing library services and programs in the Prince William Public Libraries. Each year, the Friends raise nearly $50,000 through book sales, membership contributions, and community events.

These funds directly support the programming needs of Chinn Park Regional Library, Lake Ridge Neighborhood Library, and Dale City Neighborhood Library, enabling them to offer engaging programs for all ages from early literacy initiatives and teen events to technology classes and cultural programs for adults.

Since its founding in 1991, the Friends have played an integral role in strengthening the library’s connection to the community, ensuring that residents have access not only to exceptional collections and spaces but also to enriching educational and cultural experiences.

In recognition of their outstanding contributions, the Friends of the Chinn Park Regional Library are the proud recipients of the Virginia Library Association’s Friends of the Library Award for 2025, a testament to their unwavering dedication, community spirit, and belief in the power of libraries to inspire, educate, and connect.

“The Friends of Chinn Park Regional Library have been a cornerstone of support for Prince William Public Libraries, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement. Through their extraordinary efforts, they have significantly enhanced the resources and programming available to patrons of Chinn Park Regional Library, as well as its neighboring branches, Lake Ridge and Dale City Libraries".

 "From engaging author visits and STEM workshops to children's storytimes and cultural events, their contributions have enabled the library system to offer diverse programs that cater to the needs and interests of the entire community”.

“Through their continued efforts, The Friends of Chinn Park Regional Library have demonstrated that libraries are more than just buildings filled with books—they are vibrant centers of learning, connection, and opportunity. Their unwavering support ensures that libraries continue to thrive as essential community resources, and their impact will be felt for generations to come".

Intellectual Freedom Advocacy Award

Wendy Mann is the Director, Data and Digital Scholarship Services for George Mason University Libraries. Wendy has been working at George Mason since 2007, when she was initially hired as the Education Liaison Librarian and held that position until 2010 when she became the Head of Data Services. Prior positions include Coordinator for Government Publications and Maps at the University of Pittsburgh's University Library System where she was also the GIS librarian. During her time at the University of Pittsburgh she had an opportunity of a lifetime to work as the shipboard librarian for Semester at Sea's 1998 Spring Semester voyage. Early in her career, she worked in the Government Documents department at Broward County Public Library. Wendy has a Master of Public Policy from George Mason University, as well as a Master of Library Science and a BA in Political Science, both from the University of Pittsburgh.

As a child, Lorena Jordan would attach home-made library return slips on her favorite personal books-and never return them to her shelf on time. The fascination of how libraries can serve others, combined with the desire to openly provide information to all interested parties, has led to her becoming The Policy and Government Librarian for The Schar School of Public Policy.  She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Master of Library and Information Science, both from the University of South Carolina. When not ensuring all books are in order, Lorena enjoys cooking, traveling, reading, studying foreign languages, and living quietly with her 4 cats.

“Their visionary approach and quick response in gathering invaluable and necessary data demonstrates their profound knowledge and expertise . The innovation, responsiveness and excellence aligns with the core values of libraries. The anticipated need and implementation exemplifies their dedication to advancing the mission and drive a positive outcome".  

Intellectual Freedom Promotion Award

Rachel N. Hogan and Liz Bellamy won for their project, the Draw the Line Comics Contest, which invited students to use visual mediums for activism.

Rachel N. Hogan is an Instruction and Research Librarian at William & Mary Libraries. She earned her MS in Library and Information Science from Syracuse University in 2023 and her BA in English Literature from Pepperdine University in 2021. Her research explores digital pedagogy and digital humanities within the library context, and she enjoys integrating arts-based inquiry and creative engagement into her librarianship. Outside of the library Rachel enjoys her weekly trivia team, theatre, reading, board games, and adventuring in new places,

Liz Bellamy is the Coordinator of Library Instruction at William & Mary Libraries. Having published and spoken on topics as varied as algorithmic bias, citation justice, neurodiversity in library hiring, and modeling failure in the library classroom, a throughline of her work is the desire to highlight the humanness of the research process and information landscape. She received her MSLS from UNC Chapel Hill and has since gained over a decade of experience working in academic library instruction. Outside of work, Liz enjoys practicing hot yoga, being outside, and traveling to foreign countries with her husband and surprisingly amenable 4-year-old.

"For both of us, student outreach is a major passion and we both seek out opportunities to engage students in information literacy and core tenets of librarianship in unconventional ways - some examples being Rachel’s participation in co-leading a diversity-focused Book It! program inspired by Pizza Hut’s popular reading program, and Liz’s creation of a repository for creative student writing on their lived experiences.

The Draw the Line Comics Contest encouraged students to explore the ideas of censorship and activism through research and the creation of visual media.

Along with the contest we put together a Banned Comics and Graphic Novels Display and an exhibit and reception honoring our winners and spotlighting the contest. The reception was a highlight of the whole experience because we got to see our winners share their stories for the campus community."

 
Librarian of Color Forum Award

Angela Gaskins first connected with libraries while a student at Churchland Middle School in Portsmouth where she learned how to shelve books in the school’s library. She worked for 12 years as a Norfolk Public Schools library media specialist. She earned a degree in Library and Information Science from the University of North Texas at Denton in 2018. A few months later, Chesapeake Public Library hired her to run the Dr. Clarence V. Cuffee Library which soon after transitioned into an outreach library offering on-the-go services. Now, as the South Norfolk Memorial Library manager, she is on several library committees including the Cultural Diversity Committee which works to make sure the library system’s partnerships, collection, and programs align to its mission. Over the years, she has created and executed niche programs to connect new and current library users with all public library offerings. She feels a key part of her role is to build community relationships.

Angela has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in library services, as well as a dedication to community engagement that has profoundly impacted the lives of many. Angela founded Black Ink, a festival celebrating BIPOC authors and illustrators. This groundbreaking initiative has provided a platform for underrepresented voices in literature, fostering meaningful discussions and inspiring countless readers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Angela spearheaded the remodeling of a branch library to create the Dr. Clarence V. Cuffee Outreach and Innovation Library. Recognizing the need for equitable library services, she transformed the space to focus on community outreach, ensuring library resources reached those most in need. Angela worked closely with the Cuffee team to develop SOS (Summer of Success), a program designed to support students who had fallen behind academically. Angela also spearheaded a successful partnership with the local police precinct to introduce gaming and science programs that foster engagement between teens and law enforcement. In addition, Angela serves as the co-lead for the library’s cultural diversity initiatives. Through her work, she has helped shape programs and policies that foster inclusivity, educate staff and patrons, and celebrate cultural heritage.

Outstanding Professional Associates Award

Says Kelvin, "Hey there! My Name’s Kelvin Ellis, and I’m a Library Services Coordinator for Suffolk Public Libraries. My library journey started as a teen volunteer for Virginia Beach Public Libraries throughout Highschool. Following 4 years of being a Circulation Assistant at Regent University Library, I eventually began officially working for VBPL after I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Animation in 2015. From 2015 to 2019, Oceanfront Library served as my first public library job at VBPL as a part-time Library Services Specialist. From 2019 to 2022, I worked full-time as a Library Programming Specialist (Youth) at VBPL’s Princess Anne Library and Kempsville library before eventually finding my new home at SPL in November of 2022. I’m eternally grateful to my mentors, co-workers, and supervisors on this journey who helped me get to this point. Oh! Right! My biggest library passion is Storytimes! It feels great to share stories with families; especially when I’m able to partner with my wife! When I’m not at the library, my focus in on my training and responsibilities as an assistant instructor with my wife at Jow Ga Kung Fu Virginia Beach under Grandmaster Hoy K Lee. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share a bit about myself with you all. Thank you for taking the time to read this! And uh…Go Libraries! Woo!"

Kelvin Ellis deserves the Outstanding Professional Associate award for his leadership in initiatives to increase socialization and build opportunities for underserved populations in Suffolk. By removing barriers to access for BIPOC and neurodivergent community members, his approach to library services has reduced stigmas for people who did not feel welcomed in public spaces and helped bring in others who did not see their interests reflected in libraries. With his approachable demeanor, collaborative approach to problem-solving, and infectious optimism for what libraries can do, Kelvin Ellis exemplifies SPL’s values as a team member who won the VLA Public Library Innovator in 2024. He puts forward the best image of a library professional for the public.

His enthusiasm, patience with children, and flair have all made him an indispensable Storytime programmer, leader, and role model for families in Suffolk. His impact on programming at SPL has demonstrated a way for communities of immigrants, longstanding families, and neurodivergent folks to “find their people.”

Public Library Innovator Award

Erin Creighton, Craig Graziano, Kristi Lisech, and Josie Wold won this award for organizing and coordinating outreach services for the Fredericksburg Branch of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library.

Erin Creighton serves as the Assistant Branch Manager and Adult Services Department Head for the Fredericksburg Branch of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library. She began working for Central Rappahannock in 2019 and earned her Master of Library and Information Studies from the University of Rhode Island in 2009.

Kristi Lisech is an Adult Services Programmer at the Fredericksburg Branch. She has been with Central Rappahannock Regional Library since 2018 and specializes in presenting ESOL classes. Kristi also helped to establish the Seed Library at the Fredericksburg Branch.

Josie Wold is the Youth Services Department Head at the Fredericksburg Branch. A former educator, Josie has worked with the Central Rappahannock Regional Library for 15 years. She is devoted to serving youth and families in the Fredericksburg area.

Craig Graziano is the Branch Manager of the Fredericksburg Branch of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, which he has worked for since 2002. Craig earned his MLIS from the University of Pittsburgh in 2010.

To better connect these vulnerable populations with local services, addressing a key goal of CRRL’s 2022-2027 Strategic Plan, the Branch Manager and staff have formed partnerships and connected with area organizations to bring essential community services into the branch on a regular basis. Twice per month, customers can stop by the Fredericksburg Branch for a free haircut, offered in partnership with Faded & Co. Barber Academy. Also twice monthly, the Fredericksburg Department of Social Services (DSS) has a presence at the branch and is available to answer questions and provide information on applying to services including Medicaid, SNAP, energy assistance, services for children, adults, those with disabilities, and more. Additionally, free HIV and hepatitis testing are provided in the Fredericksburg branch by community health nonprofit FAHASS (Fredericksburg Area Health and Support Services), along with condoms and additional resources.

Initiated by Fredericksburg branch staff, each month the Rappahannock Area Health Department visits a different library branch where customers can explore educational materials, learn information on staying healthy, and get connected to community resources.

Trustee Library Award

Like many, Paul Brockwell’s love of libraries began at a very young age, when his mom took him and his two older sisters nearly every week to Meherrin Regional Library for story time or to load up on books. His appreciation continued and deepened throughout college where one of his several jobs was as a student archives assistant in Swem Library’s Special Collections at William & Mary.

In 2018, Brockwell was appointed by Gov. Ralph S. Northam to serve on the Library Board, and in 2021 he was elected to serve as the board’s vice chair. Gov. Youngkin reappointed him in 2022, and he served as chair from 2022-25.

During his tenure as chair, the Library celebrated its 200th anniversary and saw the retirement of its leader, Dr. Sandy Treadway, Librarian of Virginia Emerita. Brockwell also led the search process to select the tenth Librarian of Virginia and coordinated a series of opportunities to celebrate Sandy and welcome the new Librarian. He also helped reinvigorate the Library’s honorary Patron of Letters degree program through thoughtful recognition and shepherding a successful effort to update the Code of Virginia to expand the eligibility criteria for the honor.

Brockwell is the senior associate director of communications for the MCV Foundation, where he leads efforts to produce award-winning magazines that highlight the impact of research and philanthropy on the MCV Campus. Prior to this role, he was a senior communications strategy specialist with the State Corporation Commission and worked nearly six years in higher education communications at the University of Richmond, where his writing earned CASE and PRSA regional recognition.

Brockwell earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies from William & Mary and a master’s in public communications from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. In addition to the Library Board, he has served in the community as past chair of the W&M Student Engagement and Leadership Advisory Board and as moderator and various volunteer roles at Grace Baptist Church. He loves obsessing about good television/pop culture, trying to read as many books as he can each year, and hiking the James River trails in his spare time. He lives in Richmond with his husband and a (mostly) adorable, curmudgeonly Maltese mix.

He helped reinvigorate the Library’s honorary Patron of Letters degree program, and his thoughtful stewardship of the process have ensured the Library is honoring the best of librarianship and love of the written work – including luminaries like Nikki Giovanni, Meg Medina and Freedom Reads Founder Dwayne Betts. Paul is someone who uses his privilege to elevate diverse perspectives and sing the praises of those often overlooked, whether LVA staff, regional library leaders or individuals doing important work in the field of librarianship. Paul has also more frequently proposed and leveraged commending resolutions for key individuals to build goodwill and joy during a time when libraries face many challenges.

The Up and Comer Award

Brea Gilliam is an Old Dominion University alumna and innovative school librarian. She is a 2024 ALA Emerging Leader, a member of the Virginia Library Leadership Academy 2024 cohort, Chair of the VLA Librarians of Color Forum, and an active community volunteer dedicated to digital literacy. She is an avid reader committed to advancing equity and access in libraries.

Brea Gilliam has achieved remarkable milestones in less than three years in the field, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to library services, advocacy, and community engagement. She has not only provided high-quality programming but has also played a pivotal role in helping others enter the profession by vetting IMLS grants. Additionally, she has actively advocated on Capitol Hill to secure vital funding for Virginia libraries.

 She was also an integral member of the 2022-2024 Future Information Professionals IMLS Grant Advisory Board, funded by the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program. This grant aimed to provide BIPOC ODU undergraduates with hands-on library experience through paid internships, mentorship, workshops, and attendance at the VLA conference.
 
Gilliam is particularly proud of her efforts to provide equitable access to standardized test preparation for underprivileged students who may not have the means for private tutoring. She developed a comprehensive curriculum guiding students through test strategies and digital SAT preparation.

Virginia Library of the Year Award

Founded in 1928, Massanutten Regional Library is a seven branch system that serves over 165,000 residents in Harrisonburg, Page County, and Rockingham County. As a 501(c)(3), nonprofit organization we are funded in partnership with these localities and through the generosity of our patrons.

MRL has 7 branches in: Bridgewater, Broadway, Elkton, Grottoes, Harrisonburg, Luray, and Shenandoah. In all of these locations, MRL seeks to be the welcoming heart of our community where all come to learn, discover, create, and connect. MRL’s best asset is our team, committed to robust programming, equitable access for all, pursuing innovative partnerships, and championing everyone’s right to intellectual freedom.

With a dedicated library team, Massanutten Regional Library expanded its operating hours, programming, and reached more of our underserved populations throughout our service area. MRL welcomed in immigrants, older adults, those with marginalized housing situations, and families. MRL deserves recognition as VLA’s Library of the Year because of its expansive work in the community and its tenacity to continue providing new and record-breaking programming with limited resources.

MRL is the welcoming heart of our community where all come to learn, discover, create, and connect. This year, our team conducted 2400+ programs and outreach activities, reaching a record 50,382 participants. More than 2/3 of these programs supported children ages 0-11. Over 5,800 readers registered for 2024’s Summer Reading Challenge, an increase of 25%, and children recorded more than 2.5 million minutes read--1.2 million more than the previous year. Additionally, we experienced record circulation with an 18% increase reaching nearly 865,000 items checked out. We accomplished this positive impact with fewer than 32 full-time-equivalent staff and yet were able to increase operating hours at all seven of our locations.

The VLAPAF Supporter of Professional Associates Award

Eileen Grady began her professional life in the Airline Industry, first as an Auditor and then in a Managerial role in the Revenue Accounting offices of American Airlines. After her return to the Shenandoah Valley, she accepted the position of Business Manager at Samuels Public Library. In 2008 and 2009 she served as the Library Coordinator for the construction and move to a new facility, which nearly tripled the size of the previous library building. As the Library grew, so did the job. Ultimately her position became responsible for all accounting, annual audits, facilities maintenance, oversight of the Circulation Department and all things IT, and with these expanded responsibilities came a new title, Director of Operations. Ms. Grady has been with the Library for more than 22 years, during which period she has stepped into the role of Acting Director on three occasions.

Her exceptional dedication and contributions to Samuels Public Library over her 23-year-and-running tenure as the Director of Operations has significantly enhanced the library's impact on the community and its staff. Ms. Grady has been an integral leader at Samuels Public Library, advocating tirelessly for staff pay and development opportunities. Her efforts to encourage excellence in customer service and library operations elevates the quality of life for library staff and patrons alike. Ms. Grady consistently sets high, yet attainable, standards, empowering her team to grow and excel as library professionals.

The VLAPAF Supporter of Professional Associates Award

In order to celebrate the accomplishments of those who support and transform libraries throughout the Commonwealth, the Virginia Library Association, through the hard work of the Awards and Recognition Committee, offers a number of awards. Visit our VLA Awards page for more information about all of our awards.