RICHMOND, Va. - The City of Richmond celebrated the dedication of its workforce Wednesday, Sept. 17, at Main Street Station during the 2nd Annual Service Award Ceremony. Hosted by the Employee Engagement Committee and the Department of Human Resources, the program ran from 6 to 8 p.m. and recognized employees who reached service milestones between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. The program recognized service at the 5-, 10-, 15-, 20-, 25-, 30-, 35- and 50-year levels. Special recognition was given to Wesley E. Fox, utility plant specialist with the Department of Public Utilities, and Sureatha H. McGhee, recreation program specialist with the Department of Parks and Recreation, each honored for 50 years of service. The City of Richmond employs 4,562 staff members. This year, 564 employees reached milestone service years.

Tyrome Alexander, director of human resources, served as master of ceremonies. The Richmond Police Department presented the colors before keynote remarks by Mayor Danny Avula, Council President , Dr. Cynthia Newbille and Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II. "Every day, your dedication turns City Hall into more than a building - it becomes the heart of a Thriving Richmond," Avula said. "When you show up with pride and purpose, you're not just serving residents, you're building a city where people, families, and communities can truly thrive."

Council President Dr. Cynthia Newbille, speaking on "The Power of Service," said, "Service is the quiet force that holds organizations, communities, and even nations together. It may not always make headlines, but it shapes lives every single day."

Closing remarks were delivered by Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II, who began his service in July. "The Core and soul of Richmond is its staff," Donald said.

Mayor Avula's administration has outlined seven pillars to guide Richmond's progress: a thriving City Hall that gets things done; thriving neighborhoods that meet our housing needs; thriving families where every child succeeds; a thriving economy that leaves no one behind; thriving and inclusive communities where everyone's rights are protected; a thriving and sustainable built environment planned for future generations; and a city that tells its stories and finds a healing path forward. The individuals honored tonight bring these principles to life every day through their service and commitment.

This celebration reflects the City's continued commitment to creating a supportive and high-performing public-sector organization-one where employee excellence is recognized and deeply valued.