6 Fairfax County Students Receive NAACP Michelle Leete Scholarships

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — Six high school seniors from Fairfax County were honored by the Fairfax County NAACP during its annual Michelle Leete Scholarship Celebration Brunch at the Gum Springs Community Center in Alexandria.

The scholarship, named for the late Michelle Leete, recognizes students for academic excellence, leadership, community service and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. Leete served as president of both the Fairfax County NAACP and the Fairfax County Council PTA.

The 2026 Michelle Leete Scholarship recipients are Emily Martineau of West Springfield High School; Noah Isirimah of Lake Braddock Secondary School; Amara G. Orakwue of Centreville High School; Cameron M. Thorpe of West Springfield High School; Camdyn Parker of Flint Hill School; and Sovay A. Reid of Lake Braddock Secondary School.

FCPS Superintendent Attends Celebration

Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid attended the event and congratulated the students as they prepare to pursue higher education and future careers.

“The Fairfax County NAACP is committed to investing in the next generation of leaders,” Fairfax County NAACP President Niki Zimmerman said. “These students have distinguished themselves through their hard work, perseverance, and dedication to serving others. We are proud to recognize their accomplishments and support their future success.”

Darrell Allen II, chair of the Scholarship Committee, said the scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate achievement beyond academics.

“The Michelle Leete Scholarship honors students who demonstrate excellence not only in the classroom, but also through leadership and service to others,” Allen said. “These young people represent the very best of our community, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements and bright futures.”

Scholarship Honors Leadership And Service

Tara Smalls, co-chair of the Scholarship Committee, and Dr. Iris Hunter, chair of the Fairfax County NAACP Education Committee, said in a joint statement that the program reflects the support students need to succeed.

“Behind every successful student is a village dedicated to uplifting them,” Smalls and Hunter said. “Watching these brilliant young minds rise to the occasion and embody the spirit of Michelle Leete is exactly why we do this work. Our committee remains dedicated to providing the resources and support necessary to ensure our youth not only reach higher education, but truly thrive there.”

The scholarship program was coordinated by the Fairfax County NAACP Scholarship Committee, led by Allen and Smalls, under the leadership of Hunter.

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