Grace Tinsley's Story
A Trailblazer for Charlottesville
Grace Tinsley dedicated her life to community service and empowering young people through education. As the first African American woman to be appointed to the Charlottesville School Board, she broke barriers and championed educational opportunities across the region—serving on the boards of the Minor/Preston Educational Fund, Piedmont Virginia Community College, Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Education Center (CATEC), the Charlottesville Public Schools Health Advisory Board, and the Jefferson School.
Her daughter best captured the spirit of Grace—and the scholars who carry her legacy forward—through five defining values: courage, problem-solving, perseverance, inspiration, and dedication to community.
By empowering outstanding young leaders, this scholarship keeps Grace’s vision alive while making higher education more accessible for talented high school seniors.
Who We Are
Board Members
Liz Murtagh
Lois Sandy
Lloyd Snook
Kala Somerville
Chaquita Venable
Juandiego Wade
Professional Staff: Andi Senatro, Program Manager
Llezelle Duggar, Co-Chair
Leah Puryear, Co-Chair
Rudolph A. Beverly
Dave Chapman
Gretchen Ellis
Suzette Tinsley Holt (Grace's Daughter)
Russ Linden
Your contribution directly empowers Charlottesville high school seniors, continuing Grace Tinsley's vision for a stronger community.