Recent grad wins STEAM-H essay contest

Matoaca High graduate Grace White was one of 10 essay contest winners from across Virginia who were honored by Gov. Abigail Spanberger and First Gentleman Adam Spanberger in August at the Executive Mansion. The 2026 valedictorian for Matoaca High, White now attends Virginia Tech. The annual essay contest by the Virginia Council on Women provides scholarships to two high school juniors and seniors from five regions of Virginia who plan to pursue careers in STEAM-H (science, technology, engineering, arts, math and healthcare). “The winners of this essay contest are future scientists, teachers, researchers and inventors who will work throughout the commonwealth to solve problems and transform lives,” the governor said. “Thank you to the Council on Women for the hard work you put into inspiring the next generation of leaders. The young women being celebrated this year — and every Virginian who submitted their work — make me confident that our future is in good hands.”