Virginia Union University Celebrates Excellence at 2025 Legacy Awards Gala, Raises Over $290,000
March 20, 2025
On Thursday, March 13, Virginia Union University (VUU) recently held its annual Legacy Awards Gala. The event celebrates achievements, leadership, and philanthropy within the university and the Richmond community, raising $290,000 to support VUU’s mission and programs.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Richmond Mayor Danny Avula, our esteemed host, who highlighted the university’s profound impact on the city and beyond.
“One of the things I believe deeply in is that our path to healing as a city, and as a nation, is telling our stories…VUU is one of those incredible stories,” Mayor Avula said.
He continued, “This institution grew out of a school that was started at the site of a former slave jail and was founded to provide newly freed African Americans with access to higher education. From those beginnings, this university has grown and evolved, shaping generations of leaders who have transformed Richmond, the nation, and the entire world.”
The program also featured inspiring words from the evening's co-hosts, Mister and Miss Virginia Union University, Keyondre Hunt ‘25, and Destiny Love ‘25. The VUU Choir set a patriotic tone with powerful performances of the “Star-Spangled Banner” and the Negro National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
Student Government Association President Rodney Manning and VUU Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson also shared their thoughts on the university’s legacy and future.
“Tonight is about more than just celebration—it is about reflection,” Manning said. “It’s about recognizing the sacrifices, achievements, and perseverance of those who paved the way for us while acknowledging the responsibility we now carry to continue that work.” Dr. Richardson added.
“We gather not just to celebrate the achievements of our exceptional alumni, students, faculty, and community leaders but to reaffirm our commitment to the future of Virginia Union University. To all of our honorees tonight, we thank you for your hard work, vision, and commitment to making a difference. You are the shining example of what VUU stands for.”
Darryl Atkinson, Vice President of Retail and HBCU Support at Follett Group, a presenting sponsor, echoed these sentiments.
“At Follett, we want to provide students with the best learning materials and resources at VUU and HBCUs everywhere. We are so happy to support such an amazing university,” Atkinson said.
The evening continued with a delightful dinner with VUU’s Jazz Band performances. A highlight of the night was VUU President and CEO Dr. Hakim J. Lucas's presentation of prestigious awards.
Dr. Lucas also recognized VUU’s football team, which was celebrating its second consecutive CIAA championship victory.
Another memorable moment was the Ray of Light Award presentation to Dex Robinson, a trailblazing creative director and designer of the VUU Panthers Yardrunner Air Force 1 sneaker whose journey began on the historic campus.
"I’m incredibly proud of my time at VUU, which provided me with the opportunity to further my education," Robinson said.
“This collaboration is about more than fashion — it's about representing where I come from.”
The honorees of the 2025 Legacy Awards are as follows:
The Hanson Group, Kelvin Hanson, Corporate Leadership Award
A committed corporate citizen who exhibits excellence through the highest ethical, civic, and social responsibility standards that propels the success of Virginia Union University and the City of Richmond.
Amazon, Amanda Holder, Beacon of Light Award
An alumnus who embodies the noble aspirations of Virginia Union University and ensures that future generations of students pursue quality higher education.
Chamber RVA Brian Anderson, Community Leadership Award
Recognizing outstanding service to community members who make significant contributions to the Greater Richmond community and to Virginia Union University.
Entrepreneur and Civic Leader James E “Jim” Ukrop, HBCU Impact Award.
In recognition of your unwavering commitment and dedication to Historically Black Colleges and Universities ensuring HBCUs continue to be a nurturing ground for talent, innovation, and leadership.
Virginia State Senate, Senator Mamie E. Locke, Lifetime Achievement Award
In recognition of a trusted steward and leader who models the mission and values that support the growth and success of Virginia Union University and the Greater Richmond community.
Kelvin Hanson, founder of The Hanson Group, received the Corporate Leadership Award for his outstanding contributions to the university and the broader community.
These contributions will help VUU continue its mission of providing transformative education and fostering leadership within its students.
Before the evening concluded, Michael Manigault, Associate Vice President of Philanthropy, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organizations, corporations, friends of VUU, and other contributors whose generosity made the event a success.
“From scholarships that ease financial burdens to program funding that enhances student life, your support directly impacts the future of our students,” Manigault said.
The night ended with VUU President and CEO Dr. Hakim J. Lucas giving the closing remarks, following the closing prayer and the soulful sounds of Richmond's well-known Legacy Band.
“I leave you with this thought. I want you to be confident and know that your investment in Virginia Union University is an investment in Richmond,” Dr. Lucas said.
“As part of our master plan for 2030, we are dedicated to making our campus as beautiful as any in the state and ensuring that our students receive the same opportunities and resources as their peers at other campuses throughout the Commonwealth.”