RICHMOND, Va., -- Dominion Energy and the Library of Virginia are recognizing the achievements of six African-American leaders as part of the tenth annual "Strong Men & Women in Virginia History" awards. The awards honor prominent African Americans past and present who have made noteworthy and admirable contributions to the commonwealth, the nation, and their professions.

"This year’s honorees have dedicated their lives to serving their communities. We are honored to acknowledge their achievements and all they have done to improve the lives of others,” said Bill Murray, senior vice president – Corporate Affairs & Communications, Dominion Energy. "Through activism and rising to be leaders in their fields, these six honorees have uplifted and inspired. Their leadership has provided an example for others, and their contributions have left positive and lasting impacts on society."

"The Library of Virginia is proud to partner with Dominion Energy in recognizing the accomplishments of Black Virginians from the past through the present day,” said Dr. Sandra G. Treadway, Librarian of Virginia. "This year's honorees join a long list of distinguished men and women who have served the Commonwealth and the nation in important ways, serving as role models for us all -- especially for today's students."

This year's honorees are:

• Christy S. Coleman – Williamsburg Public Historian
• Samuel H. Clark* – Roanoke Labor Leader
• Robert L. Dandridge – Norfolk Hall of Fame Basketball Player
• Rev. Dr. B.H. Hester* – Fredericksburg Minister
• Christyl C. Johnson – Woodbridge Engineer
• Samuel W. Tucker* – Richmond Civil Rights Attorney

*Posthumous honor

The honorees were celebrated at a program in Richmond on June 16.

High school students who participated in an essay contest highlighting past honorees and their own personal values and experiences were also recognized. Four winning essays have been chosen, one from each of the four regions in the state. The student winners are Harmoni Townes, 11th grade, Varina High School-Center of Communications, Thomas Patterson, 12th grade, Chesapeake Career Center, Pia Wilson, 11th grade, Washington Liberty High School, and Ansley Dunning, 12th grade, John S. Battle High School. For more information about the contest: https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/strong-men-women-in-virginia-history/student-essay-contest/

About Dominion Energy
About 7 million customers in 13 states energize their homes and businesses with electricity or natural gas from Dominion Energy (NYSE: D), headquartered in Richmond, Va. The company is committed to sustainable, reliable, affordable and safe energy and to achieving net zero carbon dioxide and methane emissions from its power generation and gas infrastructure operations by 2050. Please visit DominionEnergy.com to learn more.