D.C. Virgo Celebrates 60 Years of Legacy

Students at D.C. Virgo Preparatory Academy spent October 24 celebrating the life and legacy of David Clarke Virgo—the school’s namesake—on the 60th anniversary of the school’s dedication in his honor. The event, marking the school’s first-ever Legacy Day, honored Virgo’s lifelong commitment to academic excellence, community service, and creating opportunities for Wilmington’s youth.

The celebration began with “See It to Be It” discussions featuring local professionals and a morning meeting with members of the UNCW Women’s Basketball Team. Throughout the morning, students engaged in lessons exploring Virgo’s life and contributions. After an outdoor picnic, they participated in community service projects in Wilmington’s Northside Community.

A highlight of the day was a ceremony featuring the planting of a Southern live oak in the field behind the school—a living tribute to David Clarke Virgo’s enduring influence.

Speakers included Virgo Principal Dr. Chris Glover, Watson College Dean Dr. Tracy Linderholm, Jackye Robbins, a member of the school’s inaugural 1965 class, School Improvement Team parent representative and Virgo alum Tammy Graham, and Trinity Bordeaux, an eighth-grade student representative.

“Today, we gather not only to remember a man but to honor his legacy – a legacy that continues to shape lives, inspire futures, and uplift our community,” Ms. Robbins said. “Mr. Virgo believed that every child deserves the chance to learn, to grow, and to lead. Let us honor him by continuing his work, by building up our schools, our neighborhoods and each other.”

“Our school is named after David Clarke Virgo because of the many contributions he made to this community. His life made a difference—and yours can too,” said Dr. Glover. “My question to you today is: What will you do to make a difference in the lives of others? I believe in your potential. Your teachers and family members see your intelligence and your humor, and they believe in you too. Most of all, know that you’re loved. And keep learning so you can spread that love to others.”

The tree planting was coordinated by Isabelle Shepherd, executive director of the Alliance for Cape Fear Trees, who announced plans to return in February to plant 40 more trees on the Virgo campus and host a tree giveaway for Wilmington’s Northside Community.

“Planting trees is intentional equity in action. They make neighborhoods stronger, safer, and more beautiful,” said Shepherd. “We were thrilled to join students, teachers, and alumni at D.C. Virgo to plant a Southern live oak in honor of the school’s very first Legacy Day, and we look forward to helping continue to beautify the campus with support from our community partners.”

In the afternoon, students fanned out across Wilmington’s Northside community to complete service projects at organizations including Dorothy B. Johnson Pre-K Center, DREAMS Center for Arts Education, and Warner Temple AME Zion Church. They painted stepping stones, planted flower bulbs, and assembled care packages for senior citizens. Kindergarten students led their own service project on campus, spelling out a message of gratitude to the Wilmington Police Department using colorful cups woven into the school’s fence.

“David Clarke Virgo had a tremendous impact in our community before our building even came to fruition,” said Executive Director Rachel Greer. “Our hope is to carry on his legacy of education, empowerment and engagement each and every day. Whether you are a student, parent, staff member or volunteer, our mission is to carry on with this work. What an honor it is to be part of his legacy.”

About D.C. Virgo

For nearly 60 years, D.C. Virgo has educated students, served area families, and helped to strengthen Wilmington’s Northside community. In 2018, the school became a UNCW school, partnering with UNCW’s Watson College of Education to enhance student learning and provide high-quality training for teachers and principals. A year-round K–8 school, Virgo embodies innovation in education and community partnership—two forces united to empower the next generation of learners. Applications for enrollment are accepted year-round.

For more information, visit the D.C. Virgo website.