Recognizing the Awardees of the 2026 Annual Privilege Awards
Floor Speech
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Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the recipients of the 2026 Annual Privilege Awards, presented by the Bernie L. Bates Foundation, an organization dedicated to strengthening communities across Fairfax County through education, mentorship, and service.
Now in its fifth year, the Annual Privilege Awards honor outstanding residents whose time, leadership, and generosity have significantly supported nonprofit organizations and uplifted communities throughout Northern Virginia.
This award is given to those who embody the spirit of the late Colonel Marion ``Barney'' Barnwell, United States Army, Retired, and Lord Fairfax, 2018. He was a community leader and advocate known for his longstanding commitment to civic engagement and public service in Northern Virginia. He was actively involved with the Bernie L. Bates Foundation, supporting efforts that promote education, mentorship, and opportunities for young people. Through his leadership and volunteer work, Barnwell helped strengthen community partnerships and advance initiatives that encourage service and leadership among local residents.
This year's honorees exemplify the spirit of service and the ``pay it forward'' mentality that the program was created to celebrate. I include in the Record the following names of the 2026 Annual Privilege Awards recipients:
Dawnielle Feucht, INOVA Mount Vernon Hospital. Dawnielle Feucht is recognized for her commitment to compassionate healthcare and community service through her work at INOVA Mount Vernon Hospital. Her dedication to improving patient care and supporting the wellbeing of Fairfax County residents reflects the highest ideals of service in the healthcare profession.
Kim-Thoa Faxon, Fort Belvoir Chapel. Kim-Thoa Faxon is honored for her leadership and service through the Fort Belvoir Chapel, where she has worked to strengthen spiritual support and community engagement for military families and residents in the region. Her efforts help foster connection, compassion, and resilience within the community.
Alicia Washington, National Pan-Hellenic Council of Northern Virginia. Alicia Washington is recognized for her leadership within the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Northern Virginia, where she has advanced civic engagement, service initiatives, and opportunities for collaboration among historically Black Greek-letter organizations. Her work has strengthened community partnerships and expanded service efforts across the region.
Scott E. Brideau, Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax/ Falls Church, Inc. Scott Brideau is honored for his dedication to improving the lives of local residents through Rebuilding Together Arlington/Fairfax/Falls Church. Through volunteer leadership and community collaboration, he has helped advance critical home repair and revitalization projects that ensure safe and stable housing for vulnerable families.
Meg Turkson, Riverside Elementary School. Meg Turkson is recognized for her outstanding service to students and families at Riverside Elementary School. Through her commitment to education and mentorship, she has helped create opportunities for young people to succeed academically and grow as engaged members of their community.
Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the recipients of the 2026 Annual Privilege Awards for their extraordinary commitment to service in Fairfax County. Their leadership, generosity, and dedication strengthen our communities and embody the very best of Northern Virginia.
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