The JC Schools Foundation welcomed current and former educators, donors and community members to a celebration of “25 Years of Excellence” on Thursday night at its annual gala.
During the course of its 25 years, the foundation has raised more than $500,000 through the annual gala for Jefferson City Schools.
“This is my third year, and so, 25 years — that’s just amazing that I get to be a part of that,” said JC Schools Foundation Executive Director Peyton Leary.
The gala, the foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year, provides an opportunity to honor its Hall of Leaders and dedicated educators in the district.
“I think just seeing the community come together as a whole for our district is my favorite part of the evening, and seeing all the different business owners, and then also the retired teachers that still want to participate, school board members that have been past and present, I think that’s honestly my favorite part, seeing us all come together,” Leary said.
Hitachi Energy was the presenting sponsor for the event.
Guests were welcomed during the cocktail hour by music from the Jefferson City High School orchestra quartet. During the dinner, the Capital City High School Royal Blues performed “My Funny Valentine” a capella, and also greeted guests with a rendition of “The Champion.”
“Tonight we will champion our sponsors and supporters who are paving the path of our mission to champion a legacy of excellence where possibility becomes reality for every student in JC Schools,” Leary told the guests.
The foundation honored two Southwest Early Childhood Center educators.
The 2023 Karen Enloe Service Award, which includes a $500 gift, is awarded to a SWECC staff member with extraordinary characteristics and commitment. Anna Ruth Bunch, a paraprofessional, received the award for her willingness to “go the extra mile” for students or fellow staff members.
The 2023 Brenda Hatfield Service Award, which includes a $500 gift, is awarded to a volunteer who has served at least one year at SWECC. Carol Stow received the award for her efforts to lead students in music and the arts.
The foundation again recognized four inductees to the 2023 Hall of Leaders, who were also recognized at the Teacher of the Year ceremony in the spring. Teacher Clarence “Bus” Watt was honored posthumously as an Outstanding Retired Educator for his years of teaching American history, international relations and contemporary issues. Nell Hawes-Davis was inducted as an Outstanding Volunteer for her work with Adult Basic Literacy Education. Jack Garvin was inducted as a Distinguished Alumnus for his legacy as a Jay athlete and his work in documenting the history of Jefferson City athletics. Mid America Bank was inducted as an Outstanding Donor for its support of yearly grant programs.
It also again recognized 2023 Teacher of the Year Chef Amber Moore, the culinary arts instructor at Nichols Career Center, and 2023 Outstanding Educator Lindsey Kingsolver, a social studies teacher at Lewis and Clark Middle School.
Anna Campbell/News Tribune
JC Schools Foundation Board Officer Jacob Robinett, right, describes the Brenda Hatfield Service Award while its recipient, Carol Stow, waits at left.
Anna Campbell/News Tribune
Superintendent Bryan McGraw speaks to guests at the JC Schools Foundation Gala at the Capitol Plaza Hotel and Convention Center.