TEMPLE, Texas —
The Distinguished Alumni event is an event that benefits the Temple Education Foundation. The TEF provides innovative teaching grants and student scholarships for the Temple Independent School district. Since the event started, it has raised more than $550,000.
“Since 2014, the TEF has given over $450,000 to support TISD students directly through college scholarships, or by funding teaching grants that bring innovative educational opportunities to our students at all grade levels. It is an honor to support such a forward-looking school district as TISD” TEF Executive Director Kristy Brischke said.
The TEF hosted the annual event Thursday, honoring four people who have made big impacts and contributions to the Temple community, students, and families of TISD.
Those honored include Mr. Thomas Baird, Temple High School class of 1971, Dr. Sonjanette Crossley, Meridith-Dunbar High School class of 1968, Mrs. Dorothy Powell, Dunbar High School class of 1949, and Mr. Wendall Williams, Temple High School class of 1966.
“The four individuals honored this year have invested in the Temple community in countless ways. Thomas, Sonjanette, Dorothy, and Wendall have each built a legacy that promotes service to others and thousands of Temple ISD students have been impacted because of their leadership” TISD Superintendent Dr. Bobby Ott said.
Rep. Hugh Shine presented each honoree with a Texas flag that was flown over State Capitol and a specially designed challenge coin depicting the seal of the State of Texas and quote that he has embraced throughout his life, “Next to faith and family, serving your country is the highest calling.”
“The Distinguished Alumni recognized during the TEF’s event are community leaders who have served selflessly and with distinction,” Shine said, “Their leadership sets the standard for others to follow and I am sincerely delighted to have the privilege of joining with the TEF in highlighting their community contributions.”
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