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The Virginia Museum of History & Culture

Established in 1831 originally as the Virginia Historical Society (VHS), the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC), connects people to America’s past through the unparalleled story of Virginia.

By collecting, preserving, and interpreting the Commonwealth’s history, it links past with present and inspires future generations. It serves as Virginia’s premier research library and as its award-winning history museum, and offers statewide educational services, publications, research fellowships, and a strong presence online.

Bobby Chandler Student of the Year Award

The Virginia Museum of History & Culture awards the Bobby Chandler Student of the Year Award as a cash prize presented to a high school student who demonstrates distinction in historical research and scholarship. The award began in 1996 and is given to a student who completes a paper or classroom project that is creative, uses original primary source materials, and demonstrates a knowledge and understanding of some facet of American history. To be eligible for the award, a student's name must be submitted by a history or social studies teacher. A teacher may nominate more than one student.

Past Recipients:

  • 2017 - Mia Lazar, Blacksburg High School (Blacksburg)
  • 2016 - Emily Martin, Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies (Richmond)
  • 2015 - Kelsey Vita, Rockbridge County High School (Rockbridge)
  • 2014 - Christian Colwell, Mathematics and Sciences High School at Clover Hill (Chesterfield)
  • 2013 - Daniel Yoo, Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies (Richmond)
  • 2012 - Megan Ganley, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Fairfax)
  • 2011 - Venu Katta, Mathematics and Science High School at Clover Hill (Chesterfield)
  • 2010 - Asya Simons, Clover Hill High School (Chesterfield)
  • 2009 - Leah Tams, Clover Hill High School (Chesterfield)
  • 2008 - Kathleen Kraines, Clover Hill High School (Chesterfield)
  • 2007 - Mayo Rives, Monticello High School (Albemarle)
  • 2006 - Katherine Wall, Clover Hill High School (Chesterfield)
  • 2005 - Alice Gissinger, Thomas Jefferson High School (Fairfax)
  • 2004 - André Grimes, Maggie L. Walker High School (Richmond)
  • 2003 - Jessica Zappia, Maggie L. Walker High School (Richmond)
  • 2002 - Jennifer Sottosanti, Loudoun Valley High School (Loudoun)
  • 2001 - Meghan Stevens, Lakeland High School (Suffolk)
  • 2000 - Meghan Cunningham, Western Albemarle High School (Albemarle)
  • 1999 - Sarah Krumbein/Tara Nau, St. Gertrude High School (Richmond)
  • 1998 - Travis Smith, Patrick Henry High School (Hanover)
  • 1997 - Richard Ward, Martinsville High School (Martinsville)

For the Benefit of Children & Animals Regardless of Pedigree

Established in 1998, The Kip Kephart Foundation carries on the tenets of charity and community support held dear by Kip Kephart.

Kip’s love and support of children and animals has become his legacy. Kip funded many local organizations that tried to provide sufficient food, safer environments and necessary clothing for children in need. His 501(c)3 registered Foundation strives to support his passion and vision to this day.

Find Out More >>

Kip Kephart Foundation

P. O. Box 7315
Richmond, VA 23221-0315
804-257-9665

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