The Grand Lobby of City Hall buzzed with excitement as local educators, administrators, and community leaders gathered for the Champions for Education Reception & Awards. The annual event, hosted by Vice Mayor Patricia Fairclough in conjunction with the Education Committee and the Homestead Palace Gardens, honors those who have shown a steadfast commitment to education and the next generation of leaders.
“These honorees are our front-line community builders and have devoted countless resources to improving the lives and outcomes of our City’s youth,” said Vice Mayor Fairclough. “As an educator, I know how much it takes to make a difference in the lives of our children and I’m honored to be shining a light on our Champions for Education.”
Honorees were recognized in several categories such as non-profit, faith-based, military, business, educator, and administrator. Appropriately, members of the Mayor’s Youth Council presided over the awards presentation and served as Masters of Ceremonies for the evening. Those recognized were: Buy A Tree. Change A Life., Pastors Russel and Kerry Black, United States Coast Guard, Alger Farms, retired Magnet Lead Teacher at Air Base K-8 Alicia Corrales, South Region Office Superintendent Barbara Mendizabal, and local teachers of the year.
Also present to honor the Champions was Dr. Larry Feldman of the Miami-Dade County Public School Board and Florida State Representative Erik Fresen. Additionally, Florida State Senator Anitere Flores and Miami-Dade County Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava provided special recognition to Vice Mayor Fairclough and her efforts to honor local champions for education with proclamations.
Attendees at the event enjoyed a vast spread of hors d’oeuvres and desserts sponsored by The Palace Gardens. Following the presentations, guests continued to mingle in the elegantly decorated lobby as sunset light streamed in through the large glass entrance.
