Share this Story
èßäÊÓƵ University Celebrates Winter Commencement Tomorrow
Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond to Receive Wesley Award; Keynote Address by House Speaker Don Scott
University News | December 19, 2024
èßäÊÓƵ University will proudly host its Winter 2024 Commencement Ceremony tomorrow, December 20, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center. The ceremony will celebrate the achievements of VWU’s graduating class and honor two extraordinary individuals whose lives exemplify both leadership and service. 
The prestigious Wesley Award, recognizing those who have made a lasting and meaningful impact on èßäÊÓƵ University and the surrounding community, will be presented to Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond. A Virginia Beach City Council member and the founder and chair of the Virginia African American Cultural Center (VAACC), Dr. Ross-Hammond has devoted her life to fostering inclusivity, cultural enrichment, and civic engagement.
Under her leadership, the City Council of Virginia Beach unanimously gifted 4.83 acres for the development of the VAACC, which delivers cultural, historic, and artistic enrichment programs to the community, schools and surrounding cities. Notably, she worked with the Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau to create the city’s first self-guided tour brochure focusing on African American heritage. Dr. Ross-Hammond’s influence extends beyond cultural initiatives; she has served as president of the Virginia Beach Beautification Commission, Secretary for the ViBe Creative District, and a member of the Mayor’s Inclusion Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility Commission, among other leadership roles.
Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition by the Urban League of South Hampton Roads Young Professionals and the National Association of Blacks in Higher Education. A retired Distinguished Professor Emerita from Norfolk State University, Dr. Ross-Hammond continues to inspire as a visionary leader and devoted community advocate. 
In addition to honoring Dr. Ross-Hammond, èßäÊÓƵ is proud to welcome Virginia House Speaker Don Scott as the keynote speaker for the commencement ceremony. Recently elected as the first Black speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates in its 405-year history, Delegate Scott is a trial lawyer and Navy veteran who brings a wealth of experience to his role as Speaker. He also chairs the House Rules Committee and serves on influential boards like the Governor’s Advisory Council on Revenue Estimates. His remarkable achievements have earned him the 2024 Legislator of the Year Award from the Virginia Education Association.
Tomorrow’s commencement ceremony promises to be a meaningful celebration of academic excellence and the values that define èßäÊÓƵ University. The Marlin community looks forward to honoring its graduates and these extraordinary individuals who exemplify the University’s mission. Congratulations to the Class of 2024!