Shenandoah University leaders, past and present, as well as alumni, recently received four of The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber’s eight Greater Good Awards, at an event emceed by author and Shenandoah alumnus, Jay Foreman ’98. These awards recognize those who not only excel in their professions but also embody a deep commitment to improving the lives of others.

Richard “Dick” Shickle (pictured above)

Richard C. “Dick” Shickle Sr., retired SU vice president for administration and finance, was honored with the Lifetime Community Impact Award for his decades of dedicated service to the university and the wider community. Shickle, who worked for Shenandoah for three decades, also served on the Frederick County, Virginia, Board of Supervisors for 20 years – 16 years as its chairman. He retired from both the board and Shenandoah in 2015. During his tenure on the board, the county experienced strong economic growth, including business relocation and expansion by firms such as HP Hood LLC, Kraft Foods Group, and Navy Federal Credit Union. His era on the board also saw the construction of the Mary Jane and James L. Bowman Library, the Frederick County Public Safety Building, the Frederick County Transportation Center, and Millbrook High School. His work for the county and Shenandoah, which were recognized by both the Virginia General Assembly and in the U.S. Congressional Record, continues to enrich the community, of which he remains an active member. 

Tracy Fitzsimmons, Ph.D.

Tracy Fitzsimmons, Ph.D., president of Shenandoah University, received the Citizen of the Year Award for her leadership and deep commitment to the region. Since her tenure as president began on July 1, 2008, the university has increased enrollment by more than 1,000 students to a current all-time high of over 4,400. It has constructed and opened two major facilities – the James R. Wilkins, Jr. Athletics & Events Center and the Cecil Pruitt, Jr. Health & Life Sciences Building and renovated a historic armory into the Hazel-Pruitt Armory, which provides space for state-of-the-art programs and serves as the home of the university’s Hub for Innovators, Veterans and Entrepreneurs (HIVE). Sarah’s Glen, a memorial garden area and gazebo at the heart of the main campus that has become a symbol of the university for many, was also created under Dr. Fitzsimmons’ watch. 

The university recently celebrated its 150th anniversary with a slate of events and launched its largest-ever fundraising effort, the $100 million Shine sesquicentennial campaign, which is focused on transformative learning, student success, creating inspired spaces and assuring a bold future to benefit the university, the region, and beyond. 

During her presidency, Shenandoah gained the elite All-Steinway School designation as well as Apple Distinguished School honors, installed a rooftop solar panel array across several buildings, transformed the look of the main campus by expanding its green space, and significantly expanded its Loudoun location and online offerings. Under her leadership, the university was gifted and established a 195-acre living laboratory along the Shenandoah River in Clarke County, Virginia, just east of the main campus, which is used by students in a wide variety of programs, as well as recreationally by the general public.

She serves on the board of directors of the publicly-traded company Shentel (Shenandoah Telecommunications, Inc.), is a past president of the ODAC Conference and a past chair of the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia. As past president, she remains very involved at NAICU (the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities). She also serves on the board of the Loudoun Education Foundation, Opportunity Scholars and Virginia’s gubernatorial-appointed Commonwealth GenEdge Committee; she is a member of the International Women’s Forum of DC, and 100 Women Strong of Loudoun County. She is the also presidential sponsor of the VA Women’s Network, through which she mentors women leaders in higher education

Two outstanding alumni were honored for their remarkable contributions: Kelly Botta ’09, was named Entrepreneur of the Year, and Lauren Clouse ’16, received the Emerging Leader Award.

Kelly Botta ’09

With a bold vision for a smarter, more accessible healthcare experience, Botta has transformed the way families in the region receive care. As the founder of Smartypants Medicine, she has built a practice rooted in convenience, transparency, and genuine patient connection. Botta’s entrepreneurial journey reflects a rare blend of innovation and heart. 

Botta’s commitment to reimagining healthcare — while keeping community needs at the center — has made Smartypants Medicine a trusted and rapidly growing resource. The Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes her leadership, creativity, and the positive impact her work continues to have across the top of Virginia. Botta earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2009.

Lauren Clouse ’16

Clouse has quickly become a powerful force for good in the region through her work with the Winchester Rescue Mission. As chief operating officer, she has played a pivotal role in expanding the mission’s reach, strengthening community partnerships, and advocating for individuals experiencing homelessness. Clouse’s leadership is marked by compassion, determination, and a talent for bringing people together around meaningful causes. Her ability to inspire action and create opportunities for others embodies the spirit of the Emerging Leader Award, which recognizes rising professionals who are already making a profound difference. Clouse earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish in 2016.