News Release
For Immediate Release
November 19, 2025
Contact
Gina Patterson, Executive Director
434-295-8722 or gina@vsba.org
Student School Board Representative from Stafford County Awarded VSBA Exhibitors Scholarship
Charlottesville, VA – Today, at the Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) Annual Convention’s Opening General Session, one exceptional student – Gabriella Irish from Stafford High School in Stafford County Public Schools – was honored with the prestigious 2025 VSBA Exhibitors Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes graduating seniors who have made an impact by serving as student school board representatives on their local school boards. This year the scholarship totaled $2,500.
The 2025 scholarship was sponsored by Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc., Kelly Education, Proximity Learning, SB Ballard Construction Company, and VMDO Architects. Their contributions make this recognition possible, highlighting the VSBA’s commitment to celebrating student leaders who exemplify dedication to public education and community service.
When asked what receiving this scholarship meant to her, Irish responded:
“Receiving this scholarship means a lot to me because it recognizes the work I’ve done to represent student voices and bridge the gap between students and decision-makers,” said Gabriella Irish. “Serving as a School Board Student Representative showed me how much impact young people can have when they speak up, even in spaces where they’re not always expected to. This scholarship gives me the opportunity to keep building on that work as I study political science and public policy.”
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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