Mollie Walsh -
We could not have felt more supported or more grateful for the way Lynchburg showed up for our 10th Birthday Celebration on Saturday May 30th —and for the way this community has supported Vector Space over the past decade.
Your support sends a clear message: our community believes Lynchburg is stronger for having a place where creativity, innovation, craftsmanship, and learning can thrive together. That support was visible throughout the evening. It was reflected in the countless hours of work that went into the handcrafted auction items, the incredible homemade birthday cakes, the generous contributions from local businesses, and the kind words shared by our partners, members, and friends.
The celebration was led by Executive Director Elise Spontarelli, whose dedication and leadership have helped transform a bold idea into a thriving community resource. Through her work building partnerships, coordinating programs, supporting volunteers, and fostering connections throughout the region, Elise is at the heart of making the makerspace possible.
During her remarks, Elise recognized several individuals whose contributions have had a profound impact on Vector Space and the community it serves.
Service Award: Des Black
Des Black received the Service Award in recognition of his extraordinary willingness to help wherever needed. Whether serving as a volunteer, teacher, donor, advisor, or mentor, Des consistently demonstrates the initiative to identify challenges and the commitment to help solve them. His generosity and dedication have strengthened the makerspace in countless ways.
Maker of the Year: Tim Garnier
Tim Garnier was named Maker of the Year for his outstanding contributions to the makerspace community. Beyond his many recognitions as Maker of the Month, Tim exemplifies the collaborative spirit that defines Vector Space. His willingness to assist fellow makers, enthusiasm for group projects, broad technical knowledge, and positive attitude make him an invaluable member of the community.
Partnership Award: Peter Sheldon
Peter Sheldon received the Partnership Award for a decade of steadfast support and collaboration. A supporter of Vector Space since its earliest days, Peter has played an important role in nurturing partnerships with Randolph College, supporting local robotics programs, and helping make Maker Faire a success year after year. His continued commitment has created opportunities that have benefited makers and budding engineers throughout the region.
Founder's Award: Adam Spontarelli
The Founder's Award was presented to Adam Spontarelli in recognition of the vision, determination, and perseverance that brought Lynchburg's makerspace into existence. Adam's passion for solving difficult problems and his belief that progress requires continual growth have helped shape Vector Space from its earliest days. His leadership, hands-on every aspect involvement, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impact on the community.
The evening concluded with a heartfelt presentation from Adam, featuring stories, an in depth slideshow, and memories from the past ten years. While no presentation could fully capture the thousands of projects built, skills learned, friendships formed, and lives touched through the makerspace, it came remarkably close.
As we reflect on the last decade, we are filled with gratitude for every member, volunteer, partner, donor, instructor, and supporter who has helped make Vector Space what it is today.
Thank you, Lynchburg, for ten incredible years of making, learning, and building together. We look forward to the next chapter and all that we will create as a community in the years ahead.
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Missed the celebration? Watch Adam's anniversary slideshow here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JN8PrECNaE