Do You Know a Living Legend? Alexandria Opens Nominations for One of the City’s Highest Honors
ALEXANDRIA, VA — Every city has people who quietly shape its future — the volunteers, mentors, advocates, and leaders whose dedication makes the community stronger.
In Alexandria, those individuals are honored through the Living Legends of Alexandria program, and nominations are now open for the next class.
Community members are encouraged to nominate someone whose service, leadership, and commitment have made a lasting difference in the city. The nomination form can be found on the organization’s homepage at https://alexandrialegends.org.
Preserving Alexandria’s Living History
Living Legends of Alexandria was founded in 2006 by Alexandria photographer and artist Nina Tisara, who realized that while the city carefully documented its colonial past, the stories of those shaping Alexandria in the present were often overlooked.
“There are already volumes of material about Alexandria’s colonial history,” Tisara once explained. “The documentation of its current history was important to me… I thought, why not photograph people who were doing important things while they were still alive?”
Her vision grew into a beloved community tradition. The first class of Living Legends was honored in 2008, and since then more than 150 Alexandrians have been recognized for their contributions to the city.
Each honoree’s story becomes part of Alexandria’s living history, preserved through photography and storytelling.
The mission of Living Legends of Alexandria is straightforward:
“The mission of Living Legends of Alexandria is to identify, honor and chronicle the lives of individuals who have made significant contributions to improve the quality of life in Alexandria.”
Over the years, Living Legends have come from every corner of civic life — educators, nonprofit leaders, artists, business owners, volunteers, and community advocates.
Jennifer Ayers, a past president of the organization, said the goal is not only recognition but inspiration.
“Living Legends of Alexandria believes that we should celebrate and honor those who have made improvements to the quality of life in Alexandria,” Ayers said. “By selecting individuals who are exemplary in their service and leadership, we can document their lives and inspire others.”
A Community-Driven Honor
Unlike many awards, Living Legends nominations come directly from the community.
Anyone can nominate an individual whose contributions have significantly benefited Alexandria. Nominees do not necessarily have to live in the city, but their impact on Alexandria must be clear and meaningful.
Nominees are evaluated based on their service, leadership, and lasting influence, particularly work that extends beyond their professional responsibilities.
“The competition is tough,” said Legends board member Pat Miller, “we spend a lot of time reviewing nominations and can only choose a small number every year. Be sure to highlight how your nominee has improved Alexandria. What are his or her lasting accomplishments to the community specifically?”
How to Nominate Someone
Residents who wish to nominate someone can find the official nomination form on the Living Legends of Alexandria homepage:
Nominators are asked to describe the nominee’s accomplishments and explain how their work has improved the quality of life in Alexandria. Supporting information such as awards, achievements, and examples of community service can also be included.
Alexandria’s strength has always come from the people who care deeply about their neighbors and their community.
If someone you know has made a lasting difference — through leadership, volunteerism, mentorship, or service — this is the moment to tell their story.
Nominations are now open.
