On April 25, 2026, members gathered at the Archer Hotel Tysons for the Junior League of Northern Virginia’s (JLNV) Celebration of Service event. At this event, JLNV celebrated its 40th year of membership with the Association of Junior Leagues International and honored our remarkable 40-year members during a special pinning ceremony. The event brought together members across generations for a memorable brunch and a celebration of another impactful year of service, leadership, and community engagement. 

In 1985 the Service League of Arlington, through affiliation with the worldwide Association of Junior Leagues International, became the Junior League of Northern Virginia. We celebrated the following 40-year members: Charlotte Benjamin, Candice Burt, Jacqueline Coston, Reba Davis, Anne Duffey, Elizabeth Hopwood, Marilou MacDonnell, Ruth Ann McGrail, Sue-Ann Norian, Lynne Pilot, Carole Sanders, Anne Santorelli, Susanne Trible, Mary Margaret Whipple, Lillian “Willie” Young, Gretchen Redmond (In Memoriam), and Judith Walsh (In Memoriam).

The League also recognized its 2026 Woman of Vision and its outstanding members through the Sally Harwood Hardy Award for Excellence in Volunteerism, Victoria Z. Greve Award for Distinguished Service, Mary Harriman Award for Leadership, The Beacon Award for New Member Achievement, Council MVP awards, and Community Direct Service Stars recognition. More than a celebration of accomplishments, the event highlighted the meaningful connections, shared experiences, and enduring spirit of community-driven leadership that define JLNV.

Woman of Vision 2026: Charlotte Stump Benjamin

Each year, the JLNV honors a Woman of Vision. A leader whose journey inspires members and reflects the values JLNV holds central. This year’s honoree is Charlotte Stump Benjamin, Past President of JLNV (1982–1983).

Mrs. Benjamin served on the VHC Health Board of Directors for decades, including as chair. Her contributions left a lasting mark: the VHC Women’s Health Center, opened in 2023, was named in her honor. The Charlotte S. Benjamin Center for Women’s Health, designed by women, serves as a one-stop destination for women’s healthcare needs.

2025-2026 Award Recipients

Beacon Award for New Member Achievement — Presented to a new member who consistently performs above requirements and demonstrates selfless dedication to JLNV’s mission. 

Recipient: Sylvia Kornegay

Victoria Z. Greve Award for Distinguished Service — Honors an active member who has selflessly supported the work of JLNV.

Recipient: Alexandra Mountford

Sally Harwood Hardy Award for Excellence in Volunteerism — Recognizes an active member of at least four years who has served on at least two Councils and consistently exemplifies volunteer excellence.

Recipient: Sarah Staropoli

Mary Harriman Award for Leadership — Given to a Sustainer of four years who represents the best qualities of JLNV and inspires future generations.

Recipient: Kimberly Beach

2025-2026 Council MVPs

Each Council recognized a member whose contributions went above and beyond this League year:

Community Council: Alexandra Mountford

Communications Council: Ashley Davis

Finance Council: Ijeoma Agbaraji

Fund Development Council: Christie Zare

Membership Council: Payton Tanner

Planning Council: Caitlin Hebert

Board of Directors: Alicia Campbell

Thank you to our Sponsors

We could not have such a wonderful event without our Celebration of Service Sponsors!