Lynchburg Chapter Awards

Dr. James E. Coleman, Jr. is the founder and senior pastor of Providence Transformation Church International in Lynchburg. He serves as President of The Baptist General Convention of Virginia and Dean at Virginia University of Lynchburg (VUL). James is a board member of Virginia Union University, the Farr Foundation, Rush Homes, Truist Bank, and Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy. His community service includes past roles on the Lynchburg City School Board, YMCA of Central Virginia Board, and Lynchburg City Planning Commission. James has received numerous awards, including the Lynchburg NAACP Humanitarian Award. He has spoken at prestigious venues like the Pentagon and the National D-Day Memorial. James is also a Bishop in Kingdom Builders Global Fellowship. He has also served as Chaplain for the Lynchburg Sheriff’s Department and National Associate Chaplain for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Priscilla M. Liggon has dedicated over 25 years to the Amherst County School Board, previously serving as Chair position. She has been the clinical coordinator of the Radiologic Technology program at Central Virginia Community College since 1989. Priscilla’s community service includes roles on the Lynchburg Community Action Group (LYNCAG) Board, the Laurel Board, Johnson Health Center, Area Community Health Centers, and the Coalition for HIV Awareness & Prevention of Central Virginia. She has received several awards, including the Virginia Society of Radiologic Technologists Lifetime Achievement Award, the VA School Board Association Advocate for Education Award, and the NAACP award in Amherst County. Priscilla graduated from Amherst County High, Central Virginia Community College, and Old Dominion University. She is registered and certified by the state of Virginia and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

Camp Kum-Ba-Yah Nature Center (CKBY) was founded in 1950 to preserve natural spaces for children amidst Lynchburg’s suburban growth. Visionary founder Bev Cosby and others created a haven for children to explore and learn. In the 1960s, CKBY expanded to include inner-city children, promoting inclusion. In 1961, it became Lynchburg’s first racially integrated swimming pool. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. visited in 1962, dining at CKBY before his “American Dream” speech. CKBY became a nonprofit organization in 1983, now serving over 600 campers annually with year-round nature education. The 47-acre center includes campsites, pools, and outdoor classrooms. CKBY is committed to child development, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. Approximately 40% of campers receive scholarships, ensuring inclusivity. CKBY is a proud member of the Association of Nature Center Administrators and the American Camp Association.