5th Annual Privilege Award & Community Recognition Celebration

Event Highlights  |  March 15, 2026  |  Fairfax Country Club

The Bernie L. Bates Foundation, Inc. hosted its 5th Annual Privilege Award and Community Recognition Celebration, welcoming 82 attendees for an afternoon dedicated to honoring individuals whose service and leadership have made a meaningful impact across Fairfax County. The event is in collaboration with the George Mason University’s College of Science.

Purpose of the Event

The Privilege Awards recognize individuals who embody the enduring principles and community-focused legacy of Colonel Marion “Barney” Barnwell. Honorees are nominated by their respective organizations and selected based on their demonstrated commitment to service, civic responsibility, and a “pay it forward” spirit that uplifts communities.

Keynote Speaker

The celebration featured keynote remarks delivered by Mayor Catherine S. Read, City of Fairfax. Mayor Read’s address set the tone for the afternoon, reflecting on the importance of civic leadership and community service.

Honorees & Recognition

Awards were presented to the following individuals:

•        Ms. Dawnielle Feucht  –  INOVA Mount Vernon Hospital

•        Ms. Kim-Tho Faxon  –  Ft. Belvoir Religious Services

•        Ms. Alicia Washington  –  National Pan-Hellenic Council of Northern Virginia

•        Mr. Scott Brideau  –  Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax/Falls Church

•        Ms. Meg Turkson  –  Riverside Elementary School

Each honoree was nominated by their organization and selected for their meaningful contributions and alignment with the values reflected in Colonel Barnwell’s legacy.

In addition to the Foundation’s recognition, Congressman James R. Walkinshaw’s office independently chose to honor the awardees by entering their achievements into the official Congressional Record of the United States House of Representatives, providing a lasting and distinguished acknowledgment of their service.

President’s Privilege Award

The Bernie L. Bates Foundation President’s Privilege Award is presented annually to a community member or Director who has demonstrated outstanding service to the Fairfax County community through the giving of personal time, talents, and resources which further the goals and objectives of the Foundation.

This year’s President’s Privilege Award was presented to Mr. Scott Brideau of Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax/Falls Church.

Community Partners

The Foundation also recognized the following community partners for their continued support and commitment to the Foundation’s mission:

•        Psi Alpha Alpha Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

•        Management Support Technology Inc. (MSTI)

•        The Jimmi and Barney Barnwell Scholarship Foundation, Inc.

•        The Edmond Foundation, Inc.

Distinguished Guests & Dignitaries

The event was attended by several distinguished guests and community leaders, including:

•        Supervisor Rodney Lusk – Fairfax County Board of Supervisors

•        Mr. Amir Abu-El-Hawa – Chief of Staff to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman

•        Mr. Anthony T. Amos – Fairfax City Councilman

•        Mr. Calvin Beidleman – Director of Public Affairs, 3rd District, VA and DC, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

•        Ms. Roberta Tinch – Senior Vice President, Inova Health System; President, Inova Mount Vernon Hospital

•        A representative from U.S. Representative James R. Walkinshaw’s Office

•        Mr. Craig Branch – Third District Representative, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Additionally, members of the Foundation’s newly appointed Advisory Council were invited and in attendance, further strengthening engagement and support for the Foundation’s mission.

Program Highlights

•        Keynote address

•        Musical selections by the George Mason University Dewberry School of Music Jazz Ensemble

•        Reflections from community volunteers and leaders

•        Networking and fellowship among attendees

Impact & Takeaway

The 2026 Privilege Award Celebration highlighted the power of service, leadership, and community commitment. By recognizing individuals who lead through action and inspire others, the Bernie L. Bates Foundation continues to elevate the importance of civic engagement and reinforce a culture of giving back across Northern Virginia.