Greater Reston Chamber Celebrates 33rd Annual Ethics Day with South Lakes High School Seniors

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce
Reston, VA

Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce Hosts 33rd Annual Ethics Day for South Lakes High School Seniors

RESTON, VA — November 24, 2025 — The Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted its 33rd Annual Ethics Day, welcoming nearly 400 South Lakes High School seniors to the Hyatt Regency Reston for a transformative day dedicated to ethical decision-making, leadership development, and real-world problem solving. As Reston’s only high school, South Lakes holds a unique place in the community, and the Chamber remains committed to ensuring that Ethics Day continues as a core part of the school’s senior-year programming — honoring a tradition that has shaped local graduates for more than three decades.

Supported by 65 business and community volunteers, this year’s Ethics Day reflected the strong, ongoing partnership between the Chamber and South Lakes High School. The day featured three scenario-based modules exploring ethical dilemmas in Artificial Intelligence, Healthcare, and the Judicial Process. A live courtroom simulation led by Judge Strickland of the Virginia Court System; Blake Friedman from Bean, Kinney & Korman, P.C. and Matthew Clary from The Law Offices of Matthew A. Clary III added authenticity and became an immediate highlight for students.

Student engagement reached exceptional levels, with more than 90% arriving in full business-professional attire, prepared to participate in discussions that pushed them to examine values, consequences, and responsible decision-making.

“Ethics Day is one of Reston’s most meaningful traditions because it gives our students the tools to think critically, collaborate respectfully, and lead with confidence,” said Torrie Turner, Operations Manager for the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce. “We are proud to help preserve this program for South Lakes High School and grateful to every volunteer and sponsor who makes it possible year after year.”

Representatives from this year’s Executive Sponsors — Leidos and Reston Community Center — delivered closing remarks emphasizing integrity and community responsibility. Bill Bouie (Reston Community Center) and Chris Pharo (Leidos) reflected on the impact of values-driven choices in both personal and professional journeys.
South Lakes High School leadership praised the maturity and engagement of their senior class. “Our students embraced the challenge,” shared an SLHS representative. “They showed curiosity, empathy, and courage as they navigated difficult conversations — qualities that will serve them well long after graduation.”

Volunteers from a wide range of industries — including technology, healthcare, law, real estate, banking, small business, and local government — facilitated the sessions, guiding students through nuanced ethical scenarios. One volunteer noted, “Ethics Day reminds us that investing in young people is investing in the future of Reston.”
 

Sponsors & Community Support

This year’s Ethics Day was made possible through the generosity of our sponsors, whose commitment ensures the longevity of this signature program for Reston’s students.

Executive Sponsors

• Reston Community Center
• Leidos

Platinum Sponsor

• Atlantic Union Bank

Silver Sponsors

• Bean, Kinney & Korman, P.C.
• Wegmans

Bronze Sponsors

• Northwest Federal Credit Union
• Raba Letteri, Weichert Realtors
• Reston Law Group

Coffee Sponsor

• Micki Moravitz, Century 21 New Millennium

Support Sponsor

• Dental Group at Reston Station

The Chamber extends sincere appreciation to all sponsors for their investment in Reston’s youth and in the strength of the local business community.

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A Day Rooted in Reston Values

For 33 years, Ethics Day has embodied Reston’s core principles: community trust, shared responsibility, inclusion, and stewardship. The program reflects the Chamber’s commitment to preparing young adults for ethical leadership in a rapidly evolving world — and to fostering a vibrant, future-ready local economy driven by thoughtful, values-oriented decision-makers.

About the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce is the catalyst for business growth and entrepreneurship in the Dulles Corridor. Through high-impact programming, strategic partnerships, and community-building initiatives, the Chamber connects businesses of all sizes to opportunities that strengthen the region’s economic vitality. As the region’s most active chamber, GRCC is committed to fostering a thriving, innovative, and inclusive business environment.
Learn more at www.restonchamber.org.