The latest population estimates from the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center project significant growth for the Culpeper area, indicating an increase in the population of the five-county region to 198,671 by 2030. This figure represents an 8.5% decennial growth since the last census in 2020. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission (RRRC) released these projections, which forecast continued growth, anticipating the population will reach 214,204 by 2040 and 236,875 by 2050.
All counties within the region are expected to experience growth over the next 30 years, although the rates differ considerably. For instance, Culpeper County is projected to see a remarkable increase of 39.3%, while Rappahannock County is expected to grow by just 1.6%. Notably, the Town of Culpeper is anticipated to reach a population of 27,951 by 2050, and Warrenton is expected to grow to 12,841.
In addition to demographic changes, the community is coming together for cultural events. The MAD Jazz Festival is taking place today at Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.. This festival aims to benefit the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, showcasing a lineup of talented jazz artists while offering attendees fine Virginia wines, craft beers, and local culinary delights. The event not only celebrates jazz music but also highlights Virginia’s vibrant arts and wine community. As stated by the winery, “As one of the largest wineries in Virginia, Prince Michel is proud to support the arts while providing guests with an unforgettable cultural experience.”
In education news, Tori Gelbert, Principal of Emerald Hill Elementary School, has been selected for the Virginia Department of Education’s prestigious Principals of Distinction Program. The announcement was made during the Virginia Board of Education meeting on May 22, 2025. This program, in collaboration with the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals and the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals, recognizes exemplary school leaders who demonstrate outstanding contributions to student achievement, instructional practices, and school culture.
Participants in the program will engage in a statewide symposium and complete a capstone project over a six-month period. To qualify, principals must have at least five years of experience as administrators and hold a Level II endorsement in Administration and Supervision for PreK–12. Gelbert’s involvement will allow her to collaborate with other top principals across Virginia, enhancing leadership skills and sharing best practices to improve educational outcomes.
Lastly, a seminar titled “James Madison: Almost Everything You Wanted to Know” is scheduled for September 18-20, 2025, at the Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution at James Madison’s Montpelier, located in Orange, Virginia. This nonpartisan center has been a hub for constitutional learning for over two decades. The seminar will offer an intimate educational experience, limited to 30 attendees, focusing on the foundational aspects of the U.S. Constitution and the influential role of James Madison.
Dr. Lynn Uzzell, Associate Professor of Political Science at Bethel University and a former Scholar in Residence at the center, will lead discussions covering topics such as the Declaration of Independence, Madison’s contributions at the 1787 Constitutional Convention, and his advocacy for religious freedom. For more information, participants can contact Patrick Campbell, Director of the Center for the Constitution, via email at [email protected].
The events and developments in the Culpeper area reflect a community that is growing and evolving, both demographically and culturally, while fostering leadership and educational excellence.
