The Hampton Roads ALA Gala was a wonderful evening celebrating partnership, community, and continued support for our military families. We were honored to bring together industry leaders, military partners, sponsors, and guests from across Hampton Roads for a night of meaningful connections, celebration, and giving back.

During the evening, ALA Hampton Roads Chapter proudly recognized several outstanding women with the “Simply the Best” Awards. Cheryl L. Brown, Category Merchandiser with DeCA, was recognized for receiving the 2025 Leading Retail Pet Executive Award from Pet Insight Magazine for her leadership and innovation within the pet industry. Debra E. Kesler, Military Worldwide Account Manager for Nestlé Purina PetCare, was honored for her nearly 33 years of dedication to the military community, the pet industry, and her continued support of ALA and military families.

Mary “Tommie” Draper received the “Simply the Best – Distinguished Leader Award” in recognition of her exceptional leadership, decades of service to the military resale community, and lasting impact on ALA Hampton Roads and the military industry

A special thank you to everyone who supported the HR ALA Military Scholarship Program throughout the evening. Proceeds from the gala help provide educational opportunities for deserving students connected to military families and the military resale community, including dependents of active-duty, reserve, and retired military personnel. Due to the generosity of our sponsors, attendees, and supporters, HR ALA continues to make a lasting impact on those we serve.

Thank you to all who attended, sponsored, and contributed to making this year’s gala such a success. Your continued support allows HR ALA to strengthen and support the military community.

Kinsey Rushevicswas the Chairwoman for the Event.

Learn More about the Hampton Roads ALA Chapter: https://hr-ala.org/