On Saturday, September 13, 2025, Dumfries came together in elegance, pride, and unity for the 2025 All White Mayor’s Ball & Community Awards Gala. This unforgettable event — hosted at the Majestic Event Center in the Town of Dumfries — was more than a glamorous evening. It was a powerful celebration of the people, partnerships, and purpose shaping our town’s future.

From the black carpet arrivals to the last dance of the night, every moment carried the spirit of a community that is no longer overlooked — but unforgettable.

Honoring the Best of Dumfries

Each year, the Mayor’s Ball recognizes individuals and organizations who embody excellence, leadership, and service. The 2025 award recipients represented the very best of Dumfries, leaving an indelible mark on our town:

• Employee of the Year – Kiran Uppal, Treasurer, Town of Dumfries
• Business of the Year – Quantico Harley Davidson
• Nonprofit of the Year – CFH, Inc. (Creating Foundations for Hope)
• Hometown Hero – Guy Lambert - Radio and TV Personality
• Community Service Organization of the Year – Prince William County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
• Religious Institution of the Year – Star Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Henry Durning, Pastor
• Police Officer of the Year – Officer Carolyn Solarte, Town of Dumfries Police Department
• Al Brooks Unsung Hero Award – Rev. Dr. Michael Sessoms
• Living Legend Award – Hamid & Parwin Hashimi
• School Teacher of the Year – Akisha Mackritis

In addition to these awards, each recipient received an official Congressional Recognition Letter from the Office of Congressman Eugene Vindman, honoring their contributions to civic life and their lasting impact on Dumfries.

Leaders Who Lift Up Others

The evening was made even more special by the leaders who joined us to present the awards:

• Delegate Luke Torian
• Senator Jeremy McPike & Chief Vern Galyen
• Council Members Russel Young & Caetrina Peterson
• Commissioner of Revenue Tiffany Boyle
• Senator Jennifer Carroll-Foy
• Supervisor Andrea Bailey & Retired Dumfries Police Captain Charlie Reed
• Woodbridge Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin (on behalf of Delegate Brianna Sewell)
• Clerk of the Court Jackie Smith
• Congressman Eugene Vindman’s Office
• Tisha Lewis, Fox 5 DC
• Principal Williams, Dumfries Elementary School 

Their participation underscored the strength of our partnerships and the shared commitment to Town of Dumfries’ growth and future.

A Foundation Built on Impact

The gala also highlighted the incredible work of the Derrick Wood Foundation, which continues to transform lives in Dumfries and beyond. In 2025, the Foundation:

• Partnered with Councilwoman Peterson and Hungerford Productions to distribute over 100 turkeys during the annual Thanksgiving Giveaway
• Equipped teachers and students through the Tools for Teachers supply drive with a partnership with Schoolboard Member Justin Wilk 
• Hosted the Fore the Love of Fathers Golf Tournament at Potomac Shores
• Took youth mentees on civic leadership trips to Richmond and Washington, D.C.
• Announced the upcoming 2026 Spring Break Leadership & Service Trip to Ghana, led by First Lady Monique Wood, focusing on hydroponic gardens, sustainable agriculture, and cultural exploration

These initiatives reflect the Foundation’s core mission: Building Leaders. Changing Worlds.

Reliving the Night

The black carpet was alive with style, pride, and excitement — and every guest contributed to the unforgettable energy of the evening.

We are pleased to share the official 2025 Mayor’s Ball & Community Awards Gala Photo Album, which captures the spirit of celebration and community pride from start to finish.

📸 https://derrickrwood.com/photo-gallery/2025-mayors-ball-black-carpet

https://derrickrwood.com/photo-gallery/2025-mayors-ball-photos

Dumfries Is Rising

The 2025 Mayor’s Ball & Community Awards Gala was more than just an elegant evening — it was proof that Dumfries is becoming a destination for excellence, leadership, and community pride.

To every honoree, presenter, sponsor, and guest: thank you. Your presence and support made this year’s gala the most memorable yet. Together, we are writing a new chapter in Dumfries’ story — one defined by progress, partnerships, and possibilities.

Dumfries is no longer overlooked. Dumfries is unforgettable.