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Herndon parent and community advocate Blanca Carbajal received the 2025 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award at the FCPS Equity Symposium in June.
Chief Equity Officer Nardos King presented the annual honor on behalf of the Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee. The award recognizes people making a significant difference in educational equity across Fairfax County Public Schools.
Carbajal was chosen from a field of staff members, students and community advocates working to improve schools for underserved groups. Her nomination credited her with meeting all nine award criteria through advocacy at the school, county and state levels.
An immigrant and mother, Carbajal uses translation apps and persistence to overcome language barriers. As a volunteer, she helps families understand school communications, navigate the education system and bring immigrant perspectives into decision-making discussions.
Carbajal also co-created a support group for mothers of preschool-age children. By gathering resources from the FCPS prekindergarten program, HIPPY and local libraries, the group has connected and supported nearly 20 families.
Her community work extends beyond schools. Carbajal has advocated for lower fees at Herndon parks to make them more accessible to families throughout the area.