Star Awards honor Del Ray's community leaders at annual luncheon
Jen Walker receives lifetime achievement recognition for nearly 30 years shaping the neighborhood's identity
The Del Ray Business Association presented its annual Star Awards at Monday’s Holiday Luncheon, recognizing five community members whose contributions have shaped the neighborhood — from a high school senior with 300 volunteer hours to a real estate leader whose 30-year legacy includes founding beloved community traditions.
DRBA President Lauren Fisher opened the ceremony at The Loft at Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap by noting several attendees were absent, having gone to pay respects at the funeral of Mack Myers, an Alexandria leader known for preserving African American history in the city.
“We often think about history as something that’s already happened, something written in books or talked about later,” Fisher said. “But the truth is living history is being made right now — through the choices we make, the businesses we build, and the way we show up for one another in our community.”
Lifetime Achievement: Jen Walker
The luncheon’s most significant recognition went to Jen Walker, who received a lifetime achievement award for nearly 30 years of service to Del Ray.
Walker, a real estate professional whose Jen Walker Team has been recognized as a top firm in the region, has sponsored and supported Del Ray initiatives since the neighborhood’s early development.
“If it wasn’t for Jen believing in our many early projects 30 years ago and her willingness to sponsor and volunteer for them, I believe Del Ray wouldn’t be what it is today,” said Gayle Reuter, who presented the award.
Walker founded Cinema Del Ray, a free outdoor movie series that brings families together each summer.
“I love watching kids run across the field when they see their buddies show up and give each other big hugs,” Reuter said. “I really hope Jen realizes that in 30 or 40 years from now those kids will be grown ups and will be talking about one of their favorite memories growing up — watching movies outside with their family and friends. Jen is responsible for those memories.”
Walker has also served as the primary sponsor for the Halloween parade and Best Decorated Home contest, events that have become regional draws. Reuter recounted seeing a group in skeleton costumes walking down the Avenue this fall and striking up a conversation.
“Turns out they lived in Dupont Circle and Shirlington, and every year they get together to look at the decorated houses and then have dinner in Del Ray,” Reuter said. “These events that Jen has always made possible are what have brought people over the years to Del Ray.”
Walker has previously been recognized as the “Heart of Del Ray,” a “living legend,” and received the Margaret Paez Leadership Award.
“While she really hates attention, we have over the years not given her any choice,” Reuter said. “Jen Walker’s contributions show that leadership isn’t just about professional success. It’s about showing up for your neighbors.”
Outstanding Business: Jeff Wallingford, Taqueria Poblano
Jeff Wallingford, managing partner of Taqueria Poblano, received the Star Award for Outstanding Business.
Reuter, who also presented this award, praised Wallingford’s consistent support for community events and willingness to help neighboring businesses.
“Where else but in Del Ray can you walk into a business and literally — what do you say? ‘What do you need?’” Reuter said. “Certificate, sponsorship, whatever it is, Jeff is always there.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taqueria Poblano adapted by offering ready-to-go margaritas, and the restaurant has been recognized repeatedly for having the best margarita in the area.
“What truly distinguishes Jeff is his deep commitment to the Del Ray community,” Reuter said. “Whether supporting local schools, nonprofits, partnering with neighboring events, or providing a welcoming space for all, Jeff has shown that business success goes hand in hand with giving back.”
City Star Award: Sgt. Matt O’Malley
Sgt. Matt O’Malley of the Alexandria Police Department received the City Star Award for his coordination of special events and police logistics.
Fisher acknowledged his work managing events ranging from 500 to 50,000 attendees, including the 50th anniversary of the Turkey Trot.
“All these events we run, none of it would be possible without the cooperation of the Alexandria Police Department,” Fisher said.
Citizen Star Award: Eva Hartman
Eva Hartman received the Citizen Star Award for three years of volunteer leadership. She has co-chaired multiple events, including Dog Fest, Bands and Brews, and this year’s Candy Cane Bar Crawl, while also serving on the WellRay committee.
“She’s passionate about engaging our nonprofit partners to maximize visibility, partnership and fundraising,” Fisher said.
Student Star Award: Sebastian
Sebastian, a senior at Alexandria City High School and Key Club member, received the Student Star Award after volunteering more than 300 hours since August. He participates in the school’s Business and Government Academy and the city’s Summer Youth Employment program.
“Whenever there is a call for help, Sebastian, in his strong, quiet way, is always the first in line to volunteer,” said Patty Moran, who nominated him.
The DRBA also recognized the Alexandria City High School Key Club, whose members provide volunteer support for community events throughout the year.
Del Ray’s Evolution
Former Vice Mayor Redella “Del” Pepper, a past Star Award recipient, reflected on how far the neighborhood has come.
“I have watched this group grow and grow and grow and become something very special,” Pepper said. “The original idea was to have big name companies come here and that didn’t work. There were a couple of people like Gale and Pat Miller who said, ‘Oh no, we’ll take the little mom and pop shop.’ Well, let me tell you, they really turned out to be something special.”
Fisher closed by noting the small moments — a Taylor Swift pop-up bar that now requires a bouncer, families carrying Christmas trees home in wagons down the Avenue, new markets launching — are tomorrow’s history.
“We may not be famous — some people in this room are — but we’re definitely going to go down in history for being masters of creating an amazing place to work and live,” Fisher said.
Disclosure: The Alexandria Brief is a member of the Del Ray Business Association.