Dr. Wayland Marks Gratitude Award

Dr. Wayland Marks accepting the Gratitude Award

Dr. Wayland Marks accepting the first Gratitude Award

On November 7, 2012, Partners in Aging (PiA) awarded its first annual Gratitude Award to Dr. Wayland Marks. Dr. Marks has always had a passion for providing care to the older members of our community, and he was one of the first physicians to obtain the American Board of Internal Medicine Certificate of Added Qualifications in Geriatrics. To honor the recently retired Dr. Marks, the award has been renamed the Dr. Wayland Marks Gratitude Award and will be given annually to a person who exemplifies the principal of advocating for the senior population of Fredericksburg.

The 2025 Dr. Wayland Marks Gratitude Award winner – Meg Pemberton

Meg’s remarkable career has spanned nearly four decades, including roles as Nursing Supervisor, Nurse Manager, Assistant Director of Emergency Services, and Director of Capacity Management in hospital settings. Yet it was her personal experience—caring for her aging parents—that deepened her passion for the senior care journey. As she became their primary caregiver and advocate, she saw firsthand the challenges families face when navigating the complexities of aging. This deeply personal experience inspired Meg to dedicate her career to guiding others through that same journey.
In 2015, Meg transitioned into the senior care industry as a Director of Client Care and General Manager for a local in-home care agency, where her blend of clinical skill and heartfelt empathy set a new standard for care excellence. Her leadership was rooted in gratitude — for the opportunity to serve, to uplift, and to share her knowledge with families in need.
In 2020, Meg carried her mission forward by purchasing ElderCare Connections from her mentor and friend Valerie Hopson-Bell, a pioneer in senior advocacy who developed the first local long-term care Ombudsman program in the Fredericksburg area. Guided by that same spirit of gratitude and service, Meg has continued to expand ElderCare Connections’ impact — ensuring that seniors and their families receive compassionate, person-centered care grounded in dignity and respect.
As a Certified Care Manager (CCM) and Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), Meg is recognized nationally for her professional excellence. She is also an Advanced Professional Member of the Aging Life Care Association and an active member of Partners in Aging, through which she continues to advocate for the senior community and mentor others in the field.
 

 

Past Dr. Wayland Marks Gratitude Award winners are:

2013 – Valerie Hopson-Bell, Eldercare Connections

2014 – Neda McGuire, Comfort Keepers

2015 – Betty Bazemore, Spotsylvania Department of Social Services (posthumously)

2016 – Patricia Holland, Healthy Generations Area Agency on Aging

2017 – Karl Karch, Home Instead Senior Care

2018 – Judy Scheibe, Retired

2019 – Margaret Kenerly, Mary Washington Health Care Home Health

2022 – Cindi Bowen, Spring Arbor of Fredericksburg

2023 – Teresa Bowers – MHAF Senior Visitor Program/Micah Ministries

2024 – Lori Myers – Retired

To nominate a person who exemplifies the principal of advocating for the senior population of Fredericksburg, please use the the Gratitude Award Nomination Form.

Outstanding 1st Responder Award

The 2025 Outstanding 1st Responder Award was presented to Stafford County Captain Michelle Gibbons 

Michelle has been an exceptional and dedicated member of Partners in Aging for many years, most recently serving
on its board. She has also served with TRIAD to promote safety and reduce crime against seniors. Her passion for supporting our senior community and her unwavering commitment to service are truly outstanding.
Michelle has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing End of Life programs in partnership with TRIAD, providing invaluable resources to families navigating difficult times. As a board member of Partners in Aging, she continues to make a profound impact, particularly with her leadership in organizing Operation Medicine Cabinet, which helps ensure the safe disposal of unused medications.
Her efforts go far beyond her official duties. In preparation for the Caregiver Appreciation Event, Michelle not only reached out to her church community to nominate deserving caregivers but she was also instrumental in having her church help to sponsor the event. This is a testament to her deep-rooted care and compassion for the community she serves.
What truly sets Michelle apart is her unique combination of warmth and professionalism. As a Sheriff’s Captain, she exemplifies the rare ability to balance a tough, authoritative role with a kind, empathetic approach. While this softer demeanor might seem unexpected in her position, it has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers, colleagues, and the community alike.
As Michelle approaches retirement, the Fredericksburg area will undoubtedly feel the loss of her involvement and dedication. We know Michele embodies the spirit of the First Responder Award, and wholeheartedly applaud her for this well-deserved honor.