Camping tents glowed beneath soft lighting inside the Student Center Ballroom on Friday evening as the sounds of crickets and the outdoors drifted softly through the room — an unexpected but fitting tribute to honorary degree recipients Dennis and Zandra Chestnut, whose lives of service began with family camping trips and a deep love for nature.
The May 8 Honorands Celebration on the Van Ness Campus brought together students, faculty, trustees, alumni, elected officials and community leaders to recognize D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Chestnuts ahead of the university’s 49th Commencement Ceremony.
Held as part of the institution’s yearlong 175th anniversary celebration, the evening blended personal storytelling, student artistry and public service — reflecting a longstanding mission of community engagement and educational opportunity.
Surrounded by several members of their family, Dennis and Zandra Chestnut listened as university leaders and presenters reflected on decades of environmental advocacy, youth mentorship and civic leadership east of the Anacostia River.
Dwane Jones, dean of the College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences, recounted how what began as outdoor adventures with their six children eventually grew into a lifelong commitment to introducing young people across Washington, D.C., to the natural world and environmental stewardship.
The presentation highlighted Dennis Chestnut’s leadership restoring the Anacostia River through Groundwork Anacostia River DC, as well as Zandra Chestnut’s work in environmental education, water monitoring, gardening and youth mentorship.
Student artist Dejehia Butler presented the couple with commissioned artwork honoring their legacy, prompting extended applause from the audience.
Mayor Muriel Bowser was also recognized during the evening for receiving an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of her leadership and longstanding support of the university.
In remarks delivered by faculty presenters Monique Gamble, assistant professor of social and behavioral sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences, and Ashley Daniels, assistant professor of social and behavioral sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences, Bowser’s tenure was framed through both policy and personal history — as a fifth-generation Washingtonian whose leadership helped shape the modern District while remaining deeply rooted in the city she calls home.
The presentation highlighted Bowser’s investments in affordable housing, workforce development and economic growth, as well as her support of the District’s public university and workforce engine.
Students also played a central role throughout the evening.
Political science students Myunna Bennett and Tyana Gregory shared presentations focused on civic engagement, voting education and empowering Black youth through creative scholarship and activism.
Robel Haileyesus, a graduating senior in the Aviation Maintenance Technology program, was recognized alongside members of his family ahead of serving as the student speaker for Saturday’s Commencement Ceremony. Guests applauded as university leaders highlighted the institution’s unique aviation program housed at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
“What made tonight so meaningful was seeing students recognize themselves in these honorees,” said Chief Academic Officer April Massey. “Whether through public service, environmental stewardship or community advocacy, each of them demonstrated what it means to use your life in service to others.”