10/20/2026
Yesterday, the Hopewell, Prince George, Surry Recovery Court hosted its 31st graduation ceremony, celebrating three graduates: Melinda Jackson, James Williams, and Tequilla Rawlings. The Honorable Judge Tomko presided over the commencement, recognizing a milestone built on hard work, perseverance, and resilience.
This ceremony was about more than completing a program. It was a celebration of the time, effort, and personal commitment each graduate invested in recovery. Behind this achievement are the daily decisions to keep going, to accept support, to take responsibility, and to work toward change even when that work is difficult. Melinda, James, and Tequilla deserve recognition not only for reaching graduation, but for everything it took to get there.
Their reflections offered encouragement for others still working through the program: If you fall or slip, don’t be afraid to make a phone call. Help is available, and you don’t have to face challenges alone. Be patient, take your time, trust the process, and recognize who you are becoming. Their words also emphasized personal responsibility: “Begins with me and ends with me.”
Behind these achievements is a dedicated Recovery Court staff whose commitment helps participants find support, accountability, and encouragement. Thank you for recognizing the potential in each participant and for investing your time and care in both these graduates and those continuing through the program.
Thank you, too, to everyone who took the time to attend and celebrate, including Supervisors Scott Hammel and Ford Pugh, Colonial Heights Police Chief William Anspach, and County Administrator Kristen Pudlow. Your presence helped make this achievement even more meaningful.
Congratulations, Melinda, James, and Tequilla! We celebrate the work you have done and the futures you are building.
