Within the past year ...

August 18, 2020

Within the past year, the museum has lost two tremendous friends and supporters in William Bruce Wingo and Cindy Eanes Gray. While the impact of their losses will be felt for many years to come, the museum wants to ensure that their memories continue to be celebrated!

In honor of Bruce's memory, the museum has recently announced that the Thomas Jefferson Award formerly known as the "The Thomas Jefferson Award for Conservation", is now the "W. Bruce Wingo Award for Outstanding Contributions to Conservation". We look forward to celebrating Bruce's long and impactful support of the museum at the next Thomas Jefferson Awards Ceremony, which, due to the current health situation, will be held at a yet to be determined date in 2021.

Additionally, during the ceremony, the museum will honor longtime executive assistant, Cindy Gray, with the "Noel T. Boaz Director's Award", which is presented to an individual or organization selected by the VMNH Executive Director who has made significant contributions to VMNH.

A staunch wildlife conservationist and advocate for Virginia's natural history, Bruce was a longtime VMNH Foundation Board member and a highly dedicated supporter of the museum. His contributions made many museum initiatives possible over the years, including the recent publishing of the museum's "Virginia Explorer" publication.

Cindy Gray, who served as the museum's executive assistant for nearly two decades, was one of the most recognizable and friendly faces at the museum. From helping plan major museum events, such as science festivals, galas, award ceremonies and board meetings, to organizing staff Christmas parties and Thanksgiving luncheons, Cindy was always there to make sure everything ran perfectly.

We greatly miss you, Bruce and Cindy, but we cannot - and will not - forget all you have done for the museum!