At the Halifax County Chamber of Commerce’s 71st Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony, Virginia Barksdale, SVHEC Manager of the Office of Learner Success & Engagement, was awarded the Chamber’s inaugural Nancy L. Pool Award. The award is named after the Chamber’s long-time president Nancy Pool who served as the Chamber’s first president from 1980-2015. She passed away in 2024. The Chamber of Commerce’s board established the Nancy L. Pool award to honor Pool’s life, legacy, and service to the Chamber.
When presenting the award, Sheila Bradley, a long-time friend of Pool’s, shared that the award recognizes indivduals whose kindness, service, and dedication leaves a lasting impact on the Halifax County community. “This year’s recipient is someone who truly embodies that spirit. This person is a constant, uplifting presence in our community–always showing up, always giving back and always encouraging others.”
Chamber award winners are not notified in advance, and Virginia’s shock and delight was a highlight of the evening. In accepting the award Virginia said “To be a part of Halifax County means so much to me. I was born and raised here–I love this community. I love my job, my support system, and I love you all.”
Congratulations Virginia!