Events
March 28, 2025
CLS Alumni attend the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce Womens Business Council sponsored annual Power of Women Event
CLS Alumni L to R: Tanya Fisher ‘24, Kathy Howell ‘24, Eileen Murray ‘24, Jill Ramsaur ‘24, Keynote Speaker, Amber Price, Melinda Morgan ‘18. Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce CEO, Terry Banez, Eloise Branden ‘18, Terry Weisz ‘24.
Also in attendance but not pictured: Connie Matthews Harshaw ‘24 and Robin Sanford ‘24
In celebration of Women’s History Month, CLS alumni were honored to attend an inspiring gathering featuring Dr. Amber Price, President of Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, who delivered a keynote address titled The Art of Authenticity. Drawing on her leadership journey in healthcare, Dr. Price spoke about the importance of leading with honesty, purpose, and a strong sense of self. Her reflections encouraged attendees to embrace authenticity as a powerful foundation for leadership and professional growth.
The event brought together women from across the Greater Williamsburg business community for an afternoon of connection and conversation. Alumni enjoyed a two course lunch while engaging with Dr. Price’s message and connecting with fellow professionals. In a wonderful example of mentorship in action, alumni Eileen Murray ’24 brought two high school students as her guests, giving them the opportunity to meet inspiring women leaders, hear Dr. Price’s remarks, and experience firsthand the value of professional connection and lifelong learning.
CLS is grateful to Dr. Price and to the many amazing women who participated
in this memorable and energizing event, helping to make the celebration of
Women’s History Month both meaningful and inspiring.
May 7, 2024
CLS Class of 2024 presentation of gift checks to Lafayette High School and Berkeley Middle School Care Closets at Lafayette High School
Graduates of the Community Leadership Service Class of 2024, a biennial program sponsored by the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce, recently donated $2,650 to "Care Closets" at Lafayette High School and Berkeley Middle School in partnership with Bruton Parish. An additional $500 was donated by the CLS Board to further support these two schools in meeting vital needs of their students.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Olwen Herron (front row, center) attended the check presentation on May 7 with Principals (center left) Yiotis Tsigaridas (BMS) and (center right) Paul Rice (LHS), along with (front row, third from left) Meghan Brewer, Director of Children's and Youth Ministries (Bruton Parish); Selena Chamblee, M.Ed., Student Achievement Coach (BMS); Suzie Sylvester, ESL Teacher (LHS); and (second row, second from right) Jennifer Marzana, ESL Teacher (LHS). Representing the CLS Board were (front row, right) Melinda Morgan (Curriculum Chair); (second row, fourth from right) Barbara McFarland (Curriculum Vice Chair); and (third from right) Eloise Branden (Board Chair).
Throughout the 11-week program, our class engaged with more than 100 leaders from key sectors, including government, military, tourism and economic development. During the education session, we learned that local student needs for food and clothing have increased significantly in recent years.
While the Care Closet model has expanded community-wide, these critical needs persist. In response, our classmates unanimously selected the program at these two schools for our inaugural project. We look forward to further opportunities to serve and make a meaningful difference in the community.
Community Leadership Service Class of 2024: Leisa Schultz, Robin Sanford and Joe Moore (event coordinators); Linda Bedker, Carolyn Campbell, Tanya Fisher, Connie Matthews Harshaw, Kathy Howell, Steve Jasper, David Martin, Bob Mirel, Eileen Murray, Patti Ralabate, Jill Ramsaur, Wendy Ruffle, Cindy Sherwood, Griff Steel, Terry Weisz, Ric Zakour