News Release
For Immediate Release
March 25, 2026
Contact
Gina Patterson, executive director
434-295-8722 or gina@vsba.org
VSBA Board of Directors Southside Region Regional Scholarship Recipient Announced
The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) proudly announces Dexter Richardson, a senior at Thomas Dale High School in Chesterfield County Public Schools, as the 2026 VSBA Board of Directors Regional Scholarship recipient for the VSBA Southside Region. Richardson was recognized last night during the VSBA Southside Region Spring Network Forum and will receive a $5,000 scholarship to support his post-secondary education.
Richardson is a dedicated leader, he serves as Vice President of the Senior Class and as a Knight Mentor, supporting and guiding fellow students. Dexter is an active member of the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, and the National Society of High School Scholars. With a strong academic foundation and a passion for aviation, he is determined to achieve his dream of becoming a commercial pilot.
Richardson plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Flight Education.
“Receiving the VSBA Board of Directors Regional Scholarship is very special to me,” stated Richardson. “When I wrote my essay, I mentioned how my grandfather, better known as G-Pop, was truly a Champion for Impact for so many people. Through watching and learning from him, I too have been able to be a Champion for Impact. I am also extremely happy to receive this award because it will help pay for my tuition and get me that much closer to earning my degree in Flight Education. Earning my degree in Flight Education will in turn get me that much closer to becoming a commercial airline pilot.”
“Dexter represents the strong leadership, determination, and academic excellence we see in students across the Southside Region,” said VSBA Southside Region Chair and Petersburg City School Board Member Hal Miles. “Through his involvement in mentoring and student leadership, he has shown a true commitment to supporting his peers and strengthening his school community. He is very deserving of this recognition.”
VSBA Executive Director Gina Patterson stated, “The VSBA is proud to recognize Dexter Richardson as the Southside Region scholarship recipient. His leadership, academic dedication, and commitment to helping others succeed reflect the strong values this scholarship program is designed to celebrate. We look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish as he pursues his future in aviation.”
About the Virginia School Boards Association
The Virginia School Boards Association, a voluntary, nonpartisan organization of Virginia school boards, promotes excellence in public education through advocacy, training, and services. The Association offers conferences, information, training, and counseling designed to meet the needs of the Commonwealth’s educational leaders.
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