News for New Kent County and Charles City County, Virginia | July 2, 2026
Community
Gowdy graduates from Montana Sate University
Campbell Gowdy, a resident of Providence Forge, recently graduated from Montana State University as part of May 8 commencement ceremonies. Gowdy earned a Bachelor of Science in Business, graduating with honors. She plans to pursue a Masters of Science in Innovation and Management beginning this fall from Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship.
Two local students recently completed their studies at Shenandoah University
Two local students recently completed their studies at Shenandoah University and were recognized as part of Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies during a May 9 ceremony. Rachel Owens, a resident of Lanexa, earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Genevieve Burnett, a resident of Charles City, earned a Doctor of Occupational Therapy.
Two recognized for academic accolades at Brightpoint Community College
Two local residents were recognized for their academic accolades by Brightpoint Community College for the Spring 2026 semester. Kayla King was named to the college’s Honor’s List, which requires a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher. New Kent’s Caleb Snapp was recognized on the Dean’s List, which names students who have earned a grade-point average of 3.2 or better.
Historical game of Shinny makes its way into Charles City County
A game built on traditions that span back to the 1600s is making waves once again. And Charles City County is one of those stops. The game of Shinny is a combination of sports, with elements of field hockey, soccer, lacrosse, and rugby all intertwined as one. Shinny games range in age range, allowing old and young people as well as different cultural backgrounds to participate in them. In Charles City, games have been conducted on the Chickahominy Indian Tribal Grounds, with the latest one being this past Sunday. A team from Charles City is part of the Powhatan Shinny…
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Hall graduates from University of Alabama
Kendrick Hall, a resident of Charles City, recently completed his studies at the University of Alabama. Hall earned a Bachelor of Arts degree as part of Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies.
Three earn degrees from College of William & Mary
A trio of local individuals recently completed their studies at the College of William and Mary as part of Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies. Parker McBrayer of Barhamsville graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Rosmarie Gilbride of Providence Forge also graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree, and Cheyenne Webster of New Kent graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education.
Fox named to Dean’s List at University of Maryland Global Campus
Victoria Fox, a resident of Charles City, has been named to the Dean’s List at the University of Maryland Global Campus for the Spring 2026 semester. To be recognized for the achievement, a student must be taking at least six credits and earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher.
Pair of New Kent sisters graduate from respective universities
A pair of sisters from New Kent County recently completed their studies at respective universities. Aly Murray earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Richmond’s School of Law. She received awards from the International Academy of Trial Lawyers Student Advocacy, the Law Faculty Award in Criminal Law, and the Order of the Barristers Award. Norah Murray graduated from James Madison University’s School of Nursing. She will begin her career in Wilmington, North Carolina and specialize in adult acute care nursing.
Four named to President’s List at James Madison University
Four local students were named to the President’s List at James Madison University for the Spring 2026 semester. Olivia Brightwell and Evelyn Batkins, both of Quinton, Daniella Flowers of New Kent, and Akira Hicks of Lanexa were recognized by the university for their academic accolades. To be named to the President’s List, a student must be enrolled full-time and earn a grade-point average of 3.9 or higher.
New Kent’s DMV Select announces new operating hours
New Kent’s DMV Select will have new operational hours beginning during the next fiscal year. Beginning on Wednesday, July 1, the new hours will be 8 a.m.-12 p.m., and 1-4 p.m. The DMV Select office is located in the New Kent County Administration Building and handles transactions including vehicle titles and registrations, license plates, permits, and transcript requests.
