Press Release
The Virginia 250 Commission has announced a $1 million donation from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation in support of statewide programs commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence and Virginia’s key role in achieving it.
Dominion Energy’s donation is the first corporate gift toward the commemoration. It was recognized recently at a national convening marking the 250th anniversary of Virginia’s Committee of Correspondence, a pivotal step in the unification of the 13 original colonies. This funding will ensure that all Virginia students, teachers, and communities have access to the planned programs, exhibitions, and events commemorating the independence of the United States 250 years ago.
The gift is granted by the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dominion Energy, Inc., parent company of Dominion Energy Virginia. The beneficiary is Virginia Commemorations, Inc., the supporting arm of the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250).
“Dominion Energy has been part of past commemorations and we have seen firsthand the impact they can have on Virginia’s economy, citizens, teachers and students,” said Edward H. Baine, president of Dominion Energy Virginia and a member of the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation Board, during the program in Colonial Williamsburg for nationwide planners of 250th events from 34 states and 50 localities across Virginia. “We want to make sure this celebration is no different. America’s 250th anniversary is a once in a generation opportunity and we want to make sure Virginia leads, in our rightful place.”
Dominion Energy’s partnership will support education programs for both students and teachers across Virginia, as well as signature exhibits and a mobile museum that will travel the state and beyond. Dominion Energy’s investment will also help support efforts in all 134 localities across Virginia as they plan their own events related to the nation’s 250th anniversary. The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250), established by the General Assembly, serves to commemorate the American Revolution, the Revolutionary War, and the independence of the United States in the Commonwealth of Virginia, where much of America’s story begins. The nation will mark its semiquincentennial – in 2026. However, programs in Virginia begin now and will last through 2031. The primary goal of the Commission is to convene and facilitate a Commonwealth-wide commemoration and celebration, multi-faceted and inclusive of hundreds of partners and representatives of the wide array of histories, sites, stories, and communities that define Virginia.
“We thank Dominion for its generous support of this important milestone in our history. We know that commemorations generate a tremendous economic impact throughout the Commonwealth, with the last three major statewide commemorations – 2007, Civil War 150, and 2019 – bringing a combined total of $1.5 billion to the state. The Virginia General Assembly has appropriated significant funding to the Commission, but none of these programs would be possible without robust public-private partnerships such as this,” said Delegate Terry Austin, Chair of the VA250 Commission. “Dominion Energy’s commitment will serve as a beacon to inspire others to support the 250th commemoration.” Senator Mamie Locke, vice chair of the VA250 Commission said, “So much of our nation’s history took place right here in Virginia, and we want people from across the country to visit Virginia to experience it first-hand. With strong state support and the commitment of corporate and philanthropic partners, Virginia will be prepared to show her history through all lenses, telling the stories of all communities and making it possible for every locality and every Virginian to shine and feel proud of our Commonwealth.” “The Commission hopes other corporations, foundations and individuals will follow Dominion Energy’s lead and recognize how critical it is to honor Virginia’s role in the founding of the United States and create a lasting impact on education, tourism, and economic development,” said Senator Tommy Norment, member of the Commission. Programs and events to mark the nation’s 250th in Virginia are well underway. To learn more and get involved, visit www.va250.org.
