William & Mary Honors Colonial Williamsburg’s Ron Hurst, M.A. ’89, with Prentis Award
The Prentis Award, given annually for exemplary civic service to William & Mary and the Williamsburg community, has been awarded to Ron Hurst, M.A. ’89, of Colonial Williamsburg. Known for his significant contributions to local preservation and education, Hurst has been a driving force behind major projects such as the expansion of the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, the creation of a new archaeology center, the relocation of the historic Bray School, and the ongoing preservation of William & Mary’s Historic Campus.
Hurst will be honored at a private reception later this month.
A Legacy of Civic Leadership
“We are grateful to Ron for his leadership in preserving Williamsburg’s historic buildings,” said W&M President Katherine A. Rowe. “His work reveals the stories these structures tell about people, values, and history. Honoring him just days before the reopening of the Bray School on November 1 feels especially meaningful.”
The award, established in 1980 and named after 18th-century storeowner William Prentis, honors individuals with outstanding civic contributions. “Ron’s nomination stood out,” said Ann Marie Stock, W&M’s liaison for Strategic Cultural Partnerships. “His dedication to collaboration between W&M and Colonial Williamsburg has been invaluable.”
A Life of Service
Hurst, originally from Alexandria, Virginia, earned his M.A. in History from W&M in 1989. His early career included roles at Gunston Hall, Lady Lever Gallery in England, and Preservation Virginia, before joining Colonial Williamsburg as a furniture curator in 1983. Over the years, he rose to vice president and chief curator, eventually overseeing conservation, archaeology, architectural preservation, and museum operations. In 2022, he was named Chief Mission Officer, managing historical programs, research, and education initiatives.
In addition to his work at Colonial Williamsburg, Hurst serves on the boards of the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra, Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation, and Preservation Virginia, where he is chair. Despite his busy schedule, Hurst says he feels fortunate to contribute to the community he loves.
Restoring the Bray School
One of Hurst’s most rewarding projects is the Williamsburg Bray School Initiative, a partnership between W&M and Colonial Williamsburg focused on exploring the legacy of race, religion, and education. The Bray School, founded in 1760 to educate enslaved and free Black children, was rediscovered in 2020. In 2023, the structure was relocated to Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area, becoming the foundation’s 89th restored original building.
A public dedication of the Bray School will be held on November 1 at 2 p.m. on the Lawn of the Art Museums. The event will include a reception, community art project, entertainment, and panel discussions at the Hennage Auditorium.
Reflecting on his work, Hurst said, “The Bray School Initiative is one of the most rewarding projects I’ve been part of. It’s meaningful to contribute to something that will inspire future generations.”
Congratulations to Ron Hurst on this well-deserved recognition for his exceptional leadership and service to our community!