VPHA Honors 2025 Educators of the Year

Awardees Donna Bohanon, Audrey DeAngelis, Lori Kimball, and Hannah Schetselaar. Presenting the award is Director of Education, Travis Shaw.

On January 15th, the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area was thrilled to host our annual Educators of the Year awards ceremony at Buchanan Hall. This year, we are honored to award the distinction to the Oatlands Education and Interpretive Team.

Oatlands is one of the true gems of the Heritage Area. The historic site preserves the story of the Carter family who lived there in the 19th century, the later stewardship of the Eustis family, and the founding of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Just as importantly, Oatlands shares the history of the many enslaved men, women, and children who lived and labored there and continues working to connect with their descendants today.

Oatlands is also a vibrant learning space. Each year, hundreds of students visit to experience history firsthand while exploring themes of citizenship, community, and civic responsibility.

These programs are made possible through the dedication of the education and interpretive staff, led by Lori Kimball. Over the past year, we have collaborated on in-school living history programs about the American Revolution and World War I, partnered on the Extreme Journey summer camp, and welcomed hundreds of students to Oatlands to explore the complexities of Reconstruction.

We are proud to recognize the Oatlands team for their dedication to education, interpretation, and sharing the many stories that make this region so unique.