This weekend, I had the privilege of joining the Mary G. Porter Traditional School community to celebrate a powerful milestone—20 years of academic excellence, character building, and community impact.

But this event was about more than a school anniversary. It was a reminder that legacy lives not just in buildings—but in people, in purpose, and in the stories we pass down.

A Moment Rooted in Dumfries History

As Mayor of Dumfries and only the second Black mayor in our town’s history, standing at this celebration meant a great deal. Mary G. Porter began her teaching career in a three-room schoolhouse in Dumfries, and her husband, Wilmer Porter, made history in 1962 as the first Black man elected to office in Virginia since Reconstruction, serving our very own Town Council for 19 years.

To this day, they are the only husband and wife in Prince William County to each have government buildings named in their honor—a lasting symbol of civic leadership, educational excellence, and community service.

A Proclamation of Pride

I had the honor of presenting a proclamation on behalf of the Dumfries Town Council to Principal Kaitlyn Engelmeier-Foor, recognizing two decades of excellence at Mary G. Porter Traditional School.

The moment became even more powerful with the presence of Mrs. Porter’s daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their excitement and gratitude spoke volumes, and their words captured her legacy best: “She loved the kids.”

A Chilling Realization—and a Call to Remember

The moment that gave me chills? Hearing how many people—teachers, staff, and community members—didn’t fully know the impact of Mary or Wilmer Porter.

Their story is monumental, but not widely known. That’s why this celebration wasn’t just timely—it was necessary. Because if we don’t share our local heroes’ stories, we risk losing them.

Full Circle Moments

One of the most powerful moments came from the school’s head custodian. She’s been at Porter since it opened—and she was taught by Mrs. Porter herself in first grade. That’s the kind of legacy that doesn’t just inspire—it multiplies.

Why This Celebration Matters

Mary G. Porter Traditional School is known for its academic rigor, discipline, and community engagement. But what makes it truly special is the foundation it was built on—service, leadership, and a belief in every child’s potential.

Many former students and staff returned for this milestone. For them, it was more than an anniversary. It was a homecoming.

Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing

This day reminded me of the power of storytelling. When we tell the stories of leaders like the Porters, we keep the main thing the main thing—purpose, pride, and perseverance.

Storytelling helps us remember why we serve and who we’re serving for. It shapes our future by honoring our past.

In Gratitude

To the Porter family, thank you for allowing us to walk in your legacy.

To the educators and students, keep carrying the torch.

And to the Dumfries community, may we continue to honor the greatness that built us—and inspire the greatness still to come.

– Mayor Derrick R. Wood