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2023 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards celebrates record-setting event
by Pam Cox
Four outstanding public servants and three innovative organizations were honored during the 16th Excellence in Virginia Government Awards (EVGA) held on April 11, 2023, by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. Gov. L. Douglas Wilder, who created the awards in 2004, remarked on the importance of recognizing excellent achievements.
“The important work of the people is done by these outstanding public servants,” said Governor Wilder, 66th governor of Virginia. “We have exceptional honorees who have made a significant impact on the Commonwealth of Virginia and its people.”
More than 300 elected officials, government and business leaders, and citizens gathered for the event, which was attended by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, Ambassador and former Governor Jim Gilmore, and VCU President Michael Rao.
Learn more about the Excellence in Virginia Government Awards
“We continue to celebrate outstanding Virginians who have strengthened our spirits, encouraged our communities and who continue to leave a legacy of greatness – not just today, not just in Richmond, but in the commonwealth and beyond,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin.
Among the honorees was the Lifetime Achievement recipient, Senator Charles S. Robb, 64th governor of Virginia. He was celebrated for his five decades of public service, which included serving in the Marines, serving as Virginia’s Lt. Governor and Governor, and two terms in the U.S. Senate.
“I hope I’m viewed as having been fair and reasonable,” Robb said in accepting his award. “In most cases I was pursuing admirable goals that made our communities and our country stronger.”
“The important work of the people is done by these outstanding public servants. We have exceptional honorees who have made a significant impact on the Commonwealth of Virginia and its people.” – Gov. L. Douglas Wilder
The EVGA also recognizes scholastic achievement. Each year, an undergraduate and graduate student from the Wilder School is awarded a scholarship. This year’s recipients are Han Vu and Sean Sukol.
Watch the televised awards special on WTVR CBS6
A special broadcast of the Excellence in Virginia Government Awards airs on Richmond’s WTVR CBS6 on Thursday, April 13, 2023, at 7:30 pm. The event can also be viewed online.