I Am The Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation

06/14/2026

Today, we honor the life and legacy of Ahmad Christian Dotson.

What began as a mother’s love for her son has grown into a commitment to serve others through education, opportunity, and community impact.

The I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation was founded to ensure that Ahmad’s name would continue to inspire hope, encourage young people, and create pathways to success for future generations.

Today, we pause to remember. We pause to reflect. And we recommit ourselves to the mission.

Because every life matters.
Every dream matters.
And every opportunity to make a difference matters.

In loving memory of Ahmad Christian Dotson. ❤️🕊️

06/10/2026

I am still in complete awe this morning after spending yesterday at Pierce Farm for the ceremonial signing of several pieces of legislation by Governor Abigail Spanberger that will support Virginia’s farmers and agricultural communities.

While witnessing this historic moment was inspiring, the true highlight of the day was watching our scholarship recipient, Marcus Williams, engage in meaningful conversations with leaders, educators, and professionals who took a genuine interest in his future. Seeing doors open, connections made, and possibilities unfold right before my eyes reminded me exactly why the I Am The Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation exists.

To see Marcus included in the official event photographs and engaging with leaders from across the Commonwealth was a proud moment and a reminder that exposure, opportunity, and mentorship matter.

Sometimes the greatest blessing is not being in the room yourself, but watching someone else’s future expand because they were invited into it.

A special thank you to Delegate Kimberly Pope Adams for the invitation and her leadership as patron of House Bill 512, Virginia’s Farm and Forest Prosperity Plan. Thank you also to Surry County Supervisor Cameran Drew for his warmth, hospitality, and servant leadership. The work he is doing on behalf of the citizens of Surry County is evident and greatly appreciated.

My heart is full this morning. God continues to show what is possible when preparation meets opportunity.

And thank you to my husband, Robert, for capturing so many special moments throughout the day. These photographs will forever remind us of an experience filled with purpose, promise, and possibility.

06/10/2026

The I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation is committed to creating opportunities that expose young people to leadership, education, and career pathways that can shape their future.

Yesterday, our scholarship recipient, Marcus Williams, had the opportunity to attend the ceremonial signing of House Bill 512, Virginia’s Farm and Forest Prosperity Plan, at Pierce Farm. While there, he engaged in meaningful conversations with elected officials, agricultural leaders, educators, and professionals who took a genuine interest in his goals and aspirations.

Experiences like these remind us that scholarships are about more than financial support. They are about mentorship, exposure, networking, and creating pathways for future success.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Delegate Kimberly Pope Adams for the invitation and leadership as patron of House Bill 512, and to Surry County Supervisor Cameran Drew for his warm hospitality and commitment to the citizens of Surry County.

This is what changing lives looks like, one opportunity, one connection, and one future at a time.

05/31/2026

As the 2025–2026 school year officially comes to a close, the I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation would like to congratulate all graduates, students, educators, administrators, staff, and families on another successful year. 🎓💛

We are especially proud to recognize our 2026 scholarship recipients for their leadership, perseverance, academic commitment, character, and positive impact within their school and community.

🏆 Marcus Williams Jr.
Recipient of the Ahmad Dotson Memorial Scholarship
$1,000 Award

🏆 Bryce Jiggetts
Recipient of the Community Impact Scholarship
$500 Award

These scholarships reflect our foundation’s continued commitment to education, leadership, mentorship, and community engagement as we invest in the future of our young people.

We also extend sincere appreciation to Coach Dexter Price for donating copies of his inspirational book, “Don’t Give Up,” to our scholarship recipients as encouragement for the journey ahead.

While the school year may have ended, the work of supporting, encouraging, and uplifting our youth continues.

Please continue to follow the I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation as we prepare for upcoming youth initiatives, Summer Conversations beginning in August, and our 2026 Scholars Winter Gala on December 12, 2026.

Congratulations again to the Class of 2026. Your future is bright and we are proud of you both! ✨

I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation

“In order to change a person’s heart, you have to change their mind, and that is only through education.” JDR

05/29/2026

Congratulations to the class of 2026🎉

05/28/2026

The I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation extends our heartfelt prayers and deepest condolences to the family, friends, classmates, teachers, and loved ones of Jaliyah Mason during this incredibly difficult time. 💔

The loss of a young life impacts an entire community. We ask Dinwiddie County to continue lifting this family in prayer and surrounding them with love, compassion, strength, and support in the days ahead.

Moments like this remind us how important it is to continue pouring into our youth through love, mentorship, communication, and community connection. Please continue to check on our young people and remind them they are valued, seen, and loved.

Rest peacefully, Jaliyah. ❤️

I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation

“In order to change a person’s heart, you have to change their mind and that is only through education.” JDR

Our hearts and prayers are with the family, friends, classmates, and everyone who is grieving the unexpected loss of Miss Jaliyah Mason. May we find comfort in the memories shared and in the strength of our community as we honor her short but impactful life. We will continue to keep Jaliyah's loved ones in our thoughts as they navigate the difficult days ahead.❤️

05/25/2026

Today, we remember, honor, and never forget the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. 🇺🇸

The I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation proudly honors our fallen heroes and their families this Memorial Day. May we continue to stand united in gratitude, service, and remembrance.

❤️🤍💙

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, the I Am the Change Ahmad Dotson Foundation proudly supports Dinwiddie Troop 185 as we honor the brave men and women who sacrificed for our freedom. 🇺🇸

Thank you to Troop 185 for helping keep the spirit of patriotism alive throughout our community. We remember, we honor, and we stand united. ❤️🤍💙

Town ofDinwiddie County, VA Robert Reid
Julie Dotson-Reid