The Richmond region came alive this week with moments of achievement and celebration. 

Valedictorians from Richmond Public Schools gathered to honoracademic excellence, athletes pushed their limits at the Dominion Riverrock race and graduates took the stage at Virginia State University to mark new beginnings.

These images highlight the determination, talent and promise that define our city.

 Aubrey Rankin III, runs to the finish of the Bust the Banks Half Marathon trail run. Banks, along with other participants navigated approximately 13.1 miles of Richmond’s urban single-track trails along the James River.
 

 

 Kayakers take to the water near Browns Island during the Dominion Energy Riverrock festival, showcasing skills and teamwork in a variety of races and challenges.

 Richmond Public Schools 2025 class valedictorians pose together during an RPS award ceremony for the city’s top students at Virginia Union University Living & Learning Center on Saturday, May 17. They are: Kobe Deguzman, Franklin Military Academy; Taylor Ellis, Richmond Community High School; Shyla Scott, Richmond High School for the Arts; Bryanna LaBelle, John Marshall High School; Fatma Sidi-Elemine, Huguenot High School; Marylord Dansou, Open High School; Billy Perry, Armstrong High School; Dijon Mckiever, Richmond Virtual Academy.
 

 Graduates cheer in celebration during Virginia State University’s 2025 Spring Commencement Ceremony at the VSU Multi-Purpose Center on Saturday, May 17. In total, approximately 650 degrees were conferred across two ceremonies.

 Virginia Speaker of the House Don Scott gave the keynote address during the morning commencement ceremony, which honored graduates from the College of Education and the College of Humanities & Social Sciences.

 VSU graduates answered the question, “Where dem’ fans at?,” by waving in celebration in a moment that went viral at the commencement ceremony.