Each year, the Longwood University Alumni Association celebrates alumni and friends of the university whose lives reflect the promise of citizen leadership: using talent, experience and relationships in service of something larger than oneself. This year’s seven honorees have led in boardrooms, classrooms, communities, nonprofits, college campuses and across the globe. Their stories are distinct, but they share a Longwood throughline—an enduring commitment to opening doors for others and strengthening the places and people entrusted to them.
Dr. William H. Dunn '91
Distinguished Citizen Leader Alumni Award
Major: Therapeutic recreation
A former Longwood basketball captain and military veteran, Dunn has built a life defined by resilience, service and hope. Through the Dunn Foundation, he has turned personal experience into a mission of opportunity, supporting thousands of veterans, families, students and community members with mentorship, meals, school supplies, college exposure and outreach to those too often overlooked.
The video played during the 2026 Alumni Awards Dinner and Ceremony to recognize Dr. William H. Dunn '91.
Denise McLaughlin Perlman '02
Distinguished Professional Achievement Alumni Award
Major: Business administration (marketing)
Perlman has distinguished herself as a visionary leader in insurance, risk management and consulting. As CEO of Middle Market North America at Aon, she leads with innovation, authenticity and purpose—building strong teams, championing women in her field and mentoring emerging professionals while showing future citizen leaders what it means to pair excellence with empathy.
The video played during the 2026 Alumni Awards Dinner and Ceremony to recognize Denise McLaughlin Perlman '02
Sheri L. Stanford '89
Humanitarian Alumni Award
Major: English
Through her work in education, equity and travel justice, Stanford has devoted her life to widening opportunity. At Brookdale Community College, she helps first-generation students see college not as an impossible dream, but as a path they deserve. Her service extends globally through long-standing work in Ghana rooted in cultural understanding, volunteerism, women’s health, entrepreneurship and community partnership.
The video played during the 2026 Alumni Awards Dinner and Ceremony to recognize Sheri L. Stanford '89
Hunter R. Watson, Hon. ‘26
Honorary Alumni Award
Watson has strengthened Longwood through decades of leadership, generosity and steadfast belief in the university’s mission. Through service on university boards, philanthropic support with his wife, Llewellyn, and investments in scholarships, academics, athletics, the arts and student success, he has helped create opportunities for generations of Lancers.
The video played during the 2026 Alumni Awards Dinner and Ceremony to recognize Hunter R. Watson, Hon. ‘26
Dr. Chyna N. Crawford ‘09
Rotunda Outstanding Young Alumni Award
Major: Psychology
Crawford has made an extraordinary impact early in her career as a scholar, educator and leader. From Longwood to graduate study in forensic psychology and juvenile justice, and now as dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Elizabeth City State University, she has advanced quickly while keeping service, equity and opportunity at the center of her work.
The video played during the 2026 Alumni Awards Dinner and Ceremony to recognize Dr. Chyna N. Crawford ‘09
Rohn M. Brown ‘84
Page Cook Axson McGaughy Lifetime Loyalty Award
Major: Business administration
For 40 years, Brown has been one of Longwood’s most devoted storytellers, connectors and champions. Through athletics, admissions, alumni leadership, philanthropy and the preservation of Lancer history, he has helped generations remain connected to the people and traditions that shaped them, including through the Lancers Past podcast and the Jerome Kersey Biography Project.
The video played during the 2026 Alumni Awards Dinner and Ceremony to recognize Rohn M. Brown ‘84
Douglas “Doug” E. Howell ‘86
Nancy B. Shelton Spirited Contributor Award
Major: Psychology
As associate director for residential and commuter life, Howell has given Longwood the kind of steady, generous service that shapes daily life on campus. He is known as a humble teammate, trusted campus partner and tireless advocate for students and families. With heart, care and quiet conviction, he reflects the Lancer way in action.
The video played during the 2026 Alumni Awards Dinner and Ceremony to recognize Doug E. Howell '86
Know someone deserving?
Do you know an alum who’s making a difference, leading with heart, showing promise in their profession or giving selflessly? Nominations for the 2027 Alumni Awards are now open.
See the criteria, learn more and submit a nomination by August 15, 2026, for consideration on the next slate of recipients.