UPDATE 5/21/26:
Today was about so much more than a building transfer. On the campus of Anna Julia Cooper School, the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority and AJC formally celebrated the sale and transfer of the 2124 N. 29th Street property —a milestone rooted in partnership, vision and opportunity.
But what made today unforgettable were the voices of the students. Third grader, Jessica Chandler, Seventh grader Ne’Vaeh Black and a proud 2014 AJC graduate, Ja’Meen Tucker.
They didn’t just speak — they moved hearts. Their stories reminded everyone in the room why this partnership matters and what can happen when organizations come together with a shared commitment to children, families and community.
From RRHA leadership and AJC administrators to board members and elected officials, every speaker reinforced the importance of investing in the future. Yet it was the students who became the true centerpiece of the day — offering powerful proof of the life-changing impact that education, support and opportunity can have across generations.
What began as an announcement about a property became something far greater: a celebration of hope, transformation and the power of real partnership.
Together, RRHA and AJC are helping create pathways for young people to thrive — not just in school, but in life.
This is what it looks like when organizations invest in community, believe in potential and work together to empower the next generation.
Media Announcement Event
Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 10 a.m.
2124 N. 29th St., Richmond, VA
RAIN OR SHINE – The event will be moved inside the cafeteria if it rains.
For Immediate Release
Contact: Angela D. Fountain, Vice President of Communications and Public Relations | O. (804) 780-4167 | M. (804) 718-5876
Expanding Educational Opportunities in Richmond’s East End
RICHMOND, VA — The Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) announces the sale of the property at 2124 N. 29th Street to Anna Julia Cooper School (AJC), marking a significant milestone in a longstanding partnership focused on expanding access to high-quality educational opportunities for families in Richmond’s East End.
A media announcement event will be held Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 10 a.m. at the Anna Julia Cooper Lower School playground area at 2124 N. 29th Street, Richmond VA 23223.
Since its founding in 2009, AJC has worked closely with RRHA to serve students and families, many of whom live in RRHA’s public housing communities. Through that partnership, including leasing the building to AJC at a favorable rate and now transferring ownership at a significantly below-market price, it underscores RRHA’s bold commitment to expanding access to quality education. As a result, AJC has grown from serving just 25 students to more than 200 today, while remaining rooted in its mission to love, educate, and uplift every child it serves. That commitment to students and families from RRHA communities remains central to its work.
Access to high-quality education is one of the most critical needs for families in our communities. Our partnership with the Anna Julia Cooper School helps meet that need—creating opportunities for students to succeed and thrive. This milestone reflects our shared commitment to investing in our residents and building a stronger future for their children.
Steven Nesmith, RRHA CEO
The transaction ensures that the property will remain a community-centered educational asset. As AJC completes construction of its new Lower School building, the 2124 N. 29th Street site will continue to serve families in RRHA communities, with plans underway to expand early childhood learning opportunities in partnership with community providers—further strengthening the continuum of support for children and families.
“This is a meaningful moment for our school. We are deeply grateful to RRHA for their partnership over many years. Their support made it possible for AJC to grow and to serve hundreds of students. This next step allows us to build on that strong foundation and continue expanding what’s possible for the children and families we serve.
Mike Maruca, AJC Head of School
ABOUT AJC
The Anna Julia Cooper School is a tuition-free, independent school in Richmond’s East End, dedicated to uplifting students and graduates through an education founded on love. Serving students in grades K–8 from low-income families—most of whom live in public housing—AJC has become a beacon of hope in the community. Rooted in a belief that education is built on relationships, the school nurtures each student’s gifts within a close-knit community of affection that includes students, teachers, donors, and volunteers.