Salem Honors Tom Bowers with Charles R. Brown Award for Community Leadership
Salem Commonwealth’s Attorney Tom Bowers was presented with the 2025 Charles R. Brown Award this week, recognizing his significant contributions to the quality of life in the city. the award, named for Roanoke College’s first dean and a former Salem mayor, celebrates individuals demonstrating exceptional professional and civic dedication.
The presentation took place Wednesday at the annual Salem Thankfulness Breakfast, hosted by Roanoke college to highlight the strong relationship between the college and the city. Roanoke College President Frank Shushok Jr. emphasized the event’s importance, stating, ”This gathering is more than a breakfast.It is a celebration of the partnership, friendship and shared pride that connect the college and the city of Salem. together,we make this a remarkable place to live,work,learn and thrive.”
Bowers, a 34-year veteran of the Marine Corps who retired as a Colonel and received two Meritorious service Medals, expressed deep gratitude upon receiving the award. He acknowledged the support of mentors, colleagues, family, and those he’s served alongside, emphasizing that the honor represents “service, leadership and positive role modeling.” “This award means so much to me, and I am so honored to have this,” he saeid.
As becoming Salem’s Commonwealth’s Attorney in 2006, Bowers has focused his leadership on justice, safety, and compassion within the community. Beyond his official duties, he has dedicated over 20 years to rotary, serving as club president in 2021-22, and spent 15 years on the salem YMCA board, including two years as chair. He also chaired the 23rd Circuit Drug Court Committee, developing programs focused on recovery and accountability.
Bowers’ commitment extends to public health and safety, notably his long-standing leadership with the Regional Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program. He spearheaded early education and awareness initiatives during the fentanyl epidemic, launching community meetings for Salem families that served as a model for other Virginia cities.
Currently an adjunct professor of business law at Roanoke College, Bowers continues to mentor students, inspiring them to serve with integrity. The award comes as Bowers prepares for his retirement at the end of the year, a fact he playfully acknowledged, calling the breakfast his “retirement party.”
Among those attending the breakfast were members of the Roanoke College cabinet, previous Charles Brown Award recipients, and Salem Mayor Renee Turk ’77, who underscored the collaborative spirit between the city and the college. “Quality of life means happiness, balance, education, leisure, security and community,” Turk stated. “Salem provides it and Roanoke College helps sustain it. Together, the city and the college form a partnership that is unique, positive and collaborative-a true win-win.”
