On March 24, 2026, the Blackwell Ballroom at Longwood University was filled with excitement and celebration as 117 SVRTC members, award recipients, and invited guests gathered for the annual SVRTC Awards Banquet. The event honored outstanding individuals from across Southside Virginia for their accomplishments during the 2025–2026 school year.
Represented school divisions included Amelia County Public Schools, Appomattox County Public Schools, Brunswick County Public Schools, Buckingham County Public Schools, Charlotte County Public Schools, Colonial Heights Public Schools, Cumberland County Public Schools, Dinwiddie County Public Schools, Halifax County Public Schools, Henry County Public Schools, Hopewell City Public Schools, Lunenburg County Public Schools, Mecklenburg County Public Schools, Nottoway County Public Schools, Petersburg City Public Schools, Pittsylvania County Public Schools, Prince Edward County Public Schools, and Sussex County Public Schools.
The event began with welcoming remarks from Dr. Angela McDonald, Dean of the College of Education, Health, and Human Services. Following a celebratory lunch, Dr. Larissa Smith, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, offered remarks recognizing the meaningful work of attendees and the lasting impact they have on students, schools, and communities across the region.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of awards by Dr. Elizabeth Jamerson, SVRTC Chair, and Kyle Kayhart, Technology Specialist at Longwood University’s Institute for Teaching through Technology and Innovative Practices (ITTIP). Award recipients were recognized for their dedication, innovation, and contributions to advancing technology in education across their divisions.
Among the competitive awards, Lunenburg County Public Schools was honored with the Division Leadership Award, recognizing the division’s commitment to excellence in technology integration and innovation. Sarah Finch of Sussex County Public Schools received the Technology Leadership Award, celebrating her leadership and impact in advancing instructional technology.
Additional awards recognized outstanding contributions across categories such as Technology Teacher, Instructional Technology Support, and Technology Support, highlighting the depth of talent and commitment across SVRTC member divisions. The full list of 2026 award recipients is available here.
Dr. Paula Leach, Director of the Institute for Teaching through Technology and Innovative Practices and K–12 Outreach and Engagement, delivered closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration and innovation in supporting teaching and learning through technology.
The SVRTC Awards Banquet continues to serve as a meaningful opportunity to celebrate excellence, strengthen connections among member divisions, and recognize the individuals who make a lasting impact on education through technology.
