A Celebration of Black Philanthropy at the VMFA
On Tuesday, November 11, 2025 the Community Foundation gathered members of Richmond’s Black philanthropic community for an evening of celebration, reflection, and anticipation—honoring legacy while looking ahead to what’s next.
Hosted at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the program coincided with the museum’s upcoming exhibition Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys. The collection features more than 130 works by 40 Black artists from Africa, Europe, the United States, and the Caribbean—artists who, in the words of Alicia Keys, remind us that “we need to be our most giant selves: to think our most giant thoughts, express ourselves in the biggest way possible, and give ourselves permission to be giants.” That same spirit of boldness, creativity, and community uplift resonated throughout the evening.
Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour and networking before moving into the main program, which opened with remarks from Greg Gallop, Director of Philanthropic Services at the Community Foundation. Reflecting on his own experience as a former CF scholarship recipient, Greg shared how his journey has come full circle—now helping to steward Black philanthropy and create pathways for others to thrive.
Next, Caprice H. Bragg, Executive Deputy Director and Chief Administrative Officer at VMFA and member of the Community Foundation's Board of Governors, welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host this gathering in such a meaningful space. With over two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, Caprice spoke passionately about connection—to art, to purpose, and to one another—and how Black philanthropy at the Community Foundation embodies that same commitment to community
Jennifer Hunter, Senior Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at Altria and immediate past chair of the Foundation's Board of Governors, reflected on her tenure and the power of collective impact. Citing RVA Rising as an example, she underscored how individual generosity can transform when united by shared purpose—how we can, together, do more good.
Concluding the program, Victor Branch, Market President for Bank of America and current Chair of the Community Foundation's Board, emphasized the importance of partnership in strengthening community impact. He thanked President and CEO Sherrie Armstrong for her intentional leadership in cultivating a board that mirrors the diversity and vibrancy of the Richmond region.
As guests mingled and continued conversations, the sense of momentum was palpable. The evening stood as a testament to how Black giving is both an act of strength and of joy—a collective expression of legacy and vision that continues to build a more connected, equitable Richmond.
To learn more or get involved with Black philanthropy at the Community Foundation, explore our website and discover how you can help us do more good—together.