Sharon Owen Named York County Volunteer of the Year

August 20, 2025

At its meeting on August 19, 2025, the York County Board of Supervisors proudly recognized Sharon Owen, longtime manager of the Gallery at York Hall, as the County’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year.

For more than two decades, Sharon has been the heart and soul of the Gallery—leading a team of over 25 volunteers with unmatched dedication and passion. In 2024 alone, she personally contributed 2,269 volunteer hours—nearly half of the Gallery’s total 5,842 hours for the year. That’s an average of 50 hours a week, often more, as she devotes her time, energy, and heart to the Yorktown community.

“Sharon embodies the spirit of service, and this honor couldn’t go to a more deserving person,” said Kristi Olsen-Hayes, Director of York County Economic & Tourism Development. “I continue to be in awe of her tireless commitment, her kindness, and the way she always goes above and beyond for Yorktown, its residents, and visitors.”

Since taking the helm 23 years ago, Owen has transformed the Gallery into a vibrant cultural hub—supporting hundreds of local and regional artists by showcasing their work in rotating exhibits that keep the space fresh and engaging. The Gallery has also become a vital fundraising source for beloved community programs, including the Virginia Symphony’s annual Labor Day weekend concert, as well as support for local museums, historical sites, and performing arts initiatives.

Sharon is also the driving force behind cherished traditions like Cookies with Santa, an annual holiday event that brings joy to children and families inside the festive halls of York Hall.

The Gallery at York Hall opened in 2002 as a collaboration between the Celebrate Yorktown Committee and York County. It was envisioned as both an art space and a community resource. Under Sharon’s leadership, it has become so much more—a dynamic, welcoming area where creativity thrives, and community connections flourish.

The Gallery at York Hall is located at 301 Main Street in Historic Yorktown. From April to December, it is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, visit www.visityorktown.org.  

Additional photos are available at https://bit.ly/3Jq9BQg.