The Pride of RPS: Living Legacies

2014 The Pride of RPS: Living Legacies

he Pride of RPS: Living Legacies program was established by the Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation (RPSEF) to recognize and applaud alumni of Richmond Public Schools who exemplify the criteria of living extraordinary, honorable lives as inspirational leaders. A committee of community representatives selected the honorees from an Texceptional group of diverse nominees. We present them to you and share their stories through a col- lection of essays. As you will see, they are each grateful for the education and opportunities provided by Richmond Public Schools and can easily correlate their success to those formative years.

Mary Lee Copeland Capt. Dianne T. McRae (Ret.) Founder/Executive Creative Director Veterinarian The (next level) Storytelling Academy U. S. Public Health Service Veterinary Corps Open High School, 1976 Maggie L. Walker High School, 1965

Dr. Lisa Edwards Burrs General J. H. Binford Peay III Lyric-Coloratura Soprano and Superintendent Associate Professor of Music Virginia Military Institute Virginia State University Thomas Jefferson High School, 1958 Huguenot High School, 1977 LaVerne Beard Spurlock, Ed.D. (Ret.) Jamelle D. Foster, PT, DPT Director of Guidance Services Physical Therapist Richmond Public Schools Advance Care, LLC Home Healthcare Armstrong High School, 1946 Richmond Community High School, 1996 Julious P. Smith, Jr, JD Darien C. Grant, JD CCM Chairman Emeritus Regional Project Executive Williams Mullen Turner Construction Company Thomas Jefferson High School, 1961 Marshall-Walker High School, 1984

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 1 Welcome from the Chairman of RPS Education Foundation

April 25, 2014

Greetings, On behalf of the board of trustees of the Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the third annual Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Breakfast. Today we celebrate honorees who have achieved success in diverse fields and professions that include business, the arts, the military, medicine and education. While their accomplishments have taken place around the world, they share a common bond as alumni of Richmond Public Schools. We hope that their life stories inspire today’s students to set and achieve their own ambitious goals. Recognizing Living Legacies is just one of the ways the Foundation works to raise private funds to support innovation in our public schools. Through partnerships with local businesses, foundations, the City Council and individuals, we have raised more than $2.8 million for the Richmond Public Schools in the last five years. We are investing these funds to create opportunities for our students to learn from great teachers, to succeed academically, and to attend college or career training. We are focused on maximizing the return on your investment and evaluating our programs so we can support those that deliver results. A portion of the funds raised today will go to expand one such program: Mentoring and Reading Student to Student or MARSS. Last year’s pilot program improved the reading levels of all first grade participants, with more than half showing gains of at least two grade levels. We are actively working to increase the number of students and schools who can participate in this successful program. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to make this important work possible. With your help, the Foundation will continue to unleash the power of innovative teachers, promote academic achievement and help students reach their full potential. I hope that the stories of our Living Legacies serve as a reminder that an investment in education truly lasts a lifetime.

Sincerely,

Brendan McCormick Chairman, Board of Trustees Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation

2 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation Overview

Established in 2001, the Richmond Public Schools Edu- cation Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) tax exempt organiza- tion that partners with Richmond Public Schools and the School Board to actively develop tax-exempt financial resources and community relationships for Rich- mond Public Schools assuring accountability, integrity, and effectiveness. The Foundation’s role is two-fold: ■ To increase private philanthropy coming into the school system to support new and existing programs and enrichment activities as identified by the Superintendent and School Board. ■ To be a liaison between the school system and private sector to ensure that all incoming programs and services are aligned with the RPS strategic outlook. The primary goals of the Foundation are to help RPS boost graduation and student-retention rates by raising funds for evidence-based programs and best practices; sustain the efforts of existing partners; and seed new programs. The Foundation targets efforts not covered by existing public funding. By offering donors an effective way to support ongoing RPS efforts to improve education, the Foundation partners with the community to raise funds, seek in-kind services and recruit volunteers. Tax-deduct- ible donations to the Foundation may be provided for specific programs or as unrestricted operating support. Together, the Richmond community and Foundation can work in partnership with Richmond Public Schools to make a difference in the lives of RPS students. Interested community members are asked to make monetary donations, give in-kind, or share their talents through volun- teering. For more information or to make a donation, call the Foundation at 804.780.8623 or visit the website – www.RPSeducationfoundation.org.

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 3 Welcome from the Superintendent of Richmond Public Schools

April 25, 2014

Greetings, It is most assuredly a privilege to recognize the 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies’ distinguished honorees. These alumni have attained a high level of achievement in their respective personal, professional, and humanitarian service arenas, as well as a lifelong commitment to educational excellence. For our students, their collective experiences serve as a beacon of hope and a winning example of good stewardship of talent. This program highlights the fruits of tenacity of spirit and fortitude that exists within Richmond Public Schools (RPS). In line with our ongoing efforts to raise the standard and produce students that are prepared for careers and postsecondary education, we encourage innovative thought processes, change agents, and dynamic teachers. RPS is supported by our parents, community at-large, School Board members, City Council, and the Mayor’s Office. These relationships offer accountability and expectation that our students are equipped and directed on a path of productivity. Our notably outstanding alumni serve as the realization that our purposed and committed goals to uplift and improve our students’ performance can culminate in their global, cultural, and socioeconomic success. With pride and admiration we salute our esteemed alumni, and express our deep and genuine appreciation for our wise partner, Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation, for providing the vehicle to demonstrate our gratitude for contributions made by our living legacies.

“Wisdom begins in wonder.” — Socrates

Sincerely,

Dana T. Bedden, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

4 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Richmond Public Schools Overview

The district serves over 23,000 students, representing the ■ Bellevue Elementary, Stuart Elementary, Open region’s diverse socioeconomic mix. RPS is comprised of 26 High and Richmond Community High schools elementary schools, including one charter school, eight mid- have each been recognized by the U.S. Department dle schools, five comprehensive high schools and three spe- of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School, a cialty schools. U.S. News and World Report ranked Richmond designation awarded to schools where students Community and Open High schools among the state’s top 20 perform at very high levels or where significant public high schools. And, Franklin Military Academy stands improvements are being made in students’ as the nation’s first public military school. The district also academic achievement. operates two regional Governor’s School programs. Gifted ■ All RPS elementary schools provide the Elementary and talented students are served by SPACE (Special Program Foreign Language Program, instrumental and for Academic and Creative Excellence) at the elementary and choral music, art and extra instructional activities. middle school levels, and by advanced placement and dual enrollment courses at the high school level. Academically ■ As part of the 21st Century workforce preparedness, advanced students may also earn the prestigious Interna- RPS Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings tional Baccalaureate (IB) diploma at Thomas Jefferson High include 13 dual enrollment and 14 honors courses and School or apply to attend the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s 76 certification opportunities. School for Governmental and International Studies and the ■ RPS has more than 1,000 corporate, higher Appomattox Governor’s School for the Arts and Technology. education, community and civic partnerships, and Additional RPS highlights include: more than 10,000 volunteers who support district students and programs. Among them is the Micah ■ Richmond Public Schools participates in the Initiative, a program comprised of volunteers from “Schools for Excellence” initiative, funded by a five- more than 50 communities of faith who serve as year, $27 million grant from the U.S. Department of tutors and mentors students at every Richmond Education Teacher Incentive Fund. The program is City elementary school. The estimated value in designed to help schools recruit and retain National human capital from volunteers amounts to nearly Board-certified teachers. $2.7 million. ■ The district’s Middle School Renaissance initiative ■ RPS is one of 23 school districts in the state of provides a program of rigorous academics and Virginia with a Spanish foreign language program after-school enrichment opportunities for students. at every elementary school. ■ The district recently received one-half million dollars in funding through the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) to establish Career Service Centers (CSC) at Armstrong and Huguenot high schools. The program targets economically disadvantaged youth who are high risk, potential school dropouts. ■ Bellevue and Broad Rock elementary schools were recently named Title I Distinguished Schools by the Virginia Board of Education for meeting all state and federal accountability requirements as well as achieving average reading and mathematics SOL scores at 60th percentile or higher. Broad Rock Elementary also received the 2013 Board of Education Distinguished Achievement Award for meeting all federal and state benchmarks for two consecutive years.

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 5 Richmond School Board Overview

The School Board is Richmond’s local governing ■ Master the essential skills of reading, writing, educational body and is composed of one Board mathematics, and reasoning; representative from each of the nine districts. Board ■ Grow creatively, culturally and physically in order members are elected by the citizens to a four-year term of to become lifelong learners; and office. The Chairman, Vice Chairman and other officers are elected by the members of the School Board. ■ Learn to appreciate cultural diversity, become responsible citizens, and lead productive lives. The mission of the Richmond School Board is to provide RPS students with high quality educational experiences so that Richmond’s public schools are the choice of all Richmonders; to ensure that parents, families, and the community at large are involved in the activities of students; to ensure that students:

Left to right: Kimberly Gray (2nd District), Derik Jones (8th District), Jeffrey Bourne (3rd District), Donald Coleman, Chairman (7th District), Shonda Harris-Muhammed (6th District), Glen Sturtevant (1st District), Tichi Pinkney Eppes (9th District), Kristen Larson, Vice Chairman (4th District), Mamie Taylor (5th District).

6 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies 2014 The Pride of RPS: Living Legacies honorees O p e n H i g h S c hoo l

Founder, The (next level) Storytelling Academy Mary Lee Copeland

While growing up in Richmond’s East End, Copeland attended Benjamin Graves Elementary and Mosby Middle Schools. Her fondest memories of those years include the array of after-school and summer programs that Richmond Public Schools provided. Enthusiastic and talented teachers (including librar- ians) stayed late and worked through the summers providing education in entertaining and engaging ways for kids. “Some opportunities were brilliant,” she says with a smile. “There was everything from the amazing Mosby Middle School jazz band lead by the fabulous Mr Ross to the summer computer programming and cod- ing course with a blond surfer dude. The computer dude was such a good teacher I managed to hack into the College of William & Mary computer system in 1970.” However the most poignant summer program memory is of a Square Dancing class offered in Church Hill by a young white woman. On the first day 20 neighborhood kids showed up, but on the second day it was only Copeland and the teacher. “At first the teacher looked disappointed, but she was so dedicated that she taught me not only square dancing but show tunes for the rest of the summer. It was fantastic! Today when I teach, I try to emulate that dedication.” ary Lee Cope l a n d i s a n “RPS was so current that a square-peg-in-a-round- exuberant expression of the positive influence hole like me could find a school like Open High.” she experienced as a student in Richmond Copeland was one of the first 98 students to attend the MPublic Schools. Today, she is a distinguished multi- first year of The Open High School. She fondly remem- awarding winning advertising professional and inter- bers walking from Church Hill to The Fan for her international, storytelling expert. She is executive creative view with OHS founders Joe Hamilton and Howard director and the driving force behind The (next level) Fischer. OHS family heads like Dale Dunn and Bill Storytelling Academy (TNLSA), a production agency Smith were inspiring mentors. She describes English based in Stockholm, Sweden. She has produced over teacher Smith as one of the adults dedicated not only to 900 commercials and has worked with illustrious cli- education but also to the students’ well being. “Bill and ents including Scandinavia Airlines, IKEA, H&M, Lee Dale would come to my home and convince my mother Jeans, PUMA, Volkswagen, AXE, to name a few. In that I was not going to a ‘hippy’ high school,” she laughs. 2011, The Swedish Television and Film Producers, pre- Copeland also describes Spencer Christian, then a local sented Copeland with the first Royalty Award for her TV personality who went on to become nationally work mentoring directors. The same year she was listed known, driving around Richmond on a Saturday pick- as one of the Most Powerful Black Women in Europe. ing up students and taking them to the television station When relating her adventures of traveling around the for a tour and a recording session. world making great work with great people, she credits She describes Open High School as an environment Richmond Public Schools with providing an inspired that fostered initiative and independence. “The classrooms platform of knowledge and experience that launched were open – the entire community was the classroom.” her incredible journey from tough childhood circum- Copeland says students were encouraged to explore, learn stances to a life beyond her wildest dreams. and create. At OHS we were taught that learning was supposed to be uncomfortable, “That failure is a point of action for greatness,” she says.

8 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies After graduating in 1976, Copeland started her col- Copeland is also dedicated to supporting young lege career at Boston University, and there she won a full people by developing storytelling curricula and training scholarship for having the highest GPA of any sophomore. programs. She is a board member for Mentor USA in She was urged and supported by her OHS teachers, jour- Washington DC and a steering committee member for nalist Frank Rich and advertising legend Bill Westbrook to the Motion Program at Hyper Island in Sweden, and has transfer to Wellesley College, mentored young entrepre- where she majored in sci- neurs for The DailyCandy ence and graduated with Academy in New York. honors in 1980. Today, Mary We are constantly running This past year she held Lee still stays in contact with lectures for university profes- many of her teachers from a bunch of stories. If we stay sionals throughout Europe Open High School. curious, have some courage and and developed an online sto- She describes her great- rytelling course for Berghs est life lesson as realizing don’t take the first, easy action, School of Communications how crucial it is to be com- in Stockholm. She will be fortable with being uncom- that could be the turning point the tutor for the first Cannes fortable. “Life doesn’t have Lions’ Storytelling Academy to unfold in one particular to something great. in Cannes, France. “I am way. We are not just one proud to be a graduate of story. We are constantly RPS. I try to imagine what running a bunch of stories. If we stay curious, have some my life would have been like if I had not had OHS. I courage and don’t take the first, easy action, that could be am so grateful to those teachers, my mentors and RPS the turning point to something great. Choosing differ- that I intend to add educational institutions, middle ently takes effort, of course, but mostly a sense of adven- schools, college and universities to my international ture” she says. storytelling journey. ” During the 1980s, Copeland worked for Suzanne Tammy Jackson de Passe, the president of Motown and the most powerful woman of color at that time. “I was her executive creative assistant and the pace of the work was won- derfully chaotic. It was amazingly uncomfortable. RPS, especially OHS, prepared me for that environment.” In 1993, Copeland landed in Sweden fueled by curi- osity and the desire to experience living and working in a foreign country. Today, as Founder of The (next level) Storytelling Academy Copeland inspires advertisers, agen- cies, small business owners and individuals to develop better stories by identifying the strongest theme for their brands. Collaborating with other professionals, Copeland delivers storytelling strategies and production that support brand evolution.

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Soprano and Professor of Music, Virginia State University Lisa Edwards-Burrs

Lisa Edwards-Burrs developed a love of music at a very young age. One of her earliest memories was singing with her grandmother, Kathleen Edwards, who she considers her singing soul mate. They would sing around her house often to keep track of each others’ whereabouts; a game that committed her grandmother’s voice to memory and a song always drifting joyfully through her mind. She began harp studies at the age of eight at Norrell Elementary under the direction of Music Teacher, Ann Walker who began the harp program for Richmond Public Schools. She played for three years and found the melodic sounds it produced to be enticingly beautiful. She also thought it was “pretty cool” to be one of the first harp students in Richmond Public Schools. At Chandler Middle School Burrs had a music teacher who was very popular because of his beautiful baritone voice (and also because he was so handsome). Levy Armwood was one of the first teachers who recognized that Burrs had a real gift. In addition to Mr Armwood, she later studied with Kay Cameron at Huguenot High School who went on to be Director of Musical Theater at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Poise, dedication, and confidence are characteristics that were part of the learning experience at RPS. Students in the arts programs flourished, with friendly competi- tion between schools as a regular occurrence. “There was a clearly defined structure. Authority was recognized and appreciated. Teachers were mentors and students felt empowered.” says Burrs. “All students took some kind of ot many musicians can say musical instrument and the arts were an important part they’ve performed the national anthem for the of our curriculum.” It was during this time that she began President of the United States. Nor can many to develop a mantra that she still lives by today, “if you Nmusicians say that a composer invited them to sing in an respect what you do, then others will respect it, too.” original opera. However, it is not unusual for Lisa Edwards- High school was filled with musical performances Burrs to be one of few to achieve such distinction or be of various genres both with traveling choirs and small honored for what she does. This lyric-coloratura soprano ensembles, as well as with school productions and dis- is an accomplished performer. In articles and reviews, her trict competitions. Although she loved it and was obvi- voice has been praised for its “crystalline beauty” regularly ously quite talented, Burrs didn’t think she was good performing classical, sacred and operatic music. enough to major in music because the standards were so high. Coming from a long line of educators, declaring a major in music education at Virginia Commonwealth University seemed the perfect fit. Eventually, as her passion for performance deepened, she changed her major in order to develop and train her voice more.

10 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies From attending VCU, she felt prepared for both a Her performances and awards are far too numerous career and life immersed in music. “You need to be ready to list. She’s traveled internationally performing recit- for opportunities that present themselves,” she says not- als, aria concerts, and operas. She has also represented ing that studying at VCU the United States as an not only taught her good artistic ambassador, tour- technique, but profession- ing several countries in alism and the ability to “do If you respect what you do, then South America. She is well wherever you ended beloved by many, yet up.” Studying under VCU’s others will respect it, too. humble and grateful for former chair and founder the strong foundation of of VCU Opera, L. Wayne support and training that Batty, she was sure to continue to develop a strong work began here in Richmond. It’s no wonder that Richmond ethic. He instilled in all of his students a real desire to be Magazine crowned her “Outstanding Vocalist of the Year the best they could be and to love what they were training for Excellence in the Arts.” themselves to become. During the hectic period of her life in which Edwards- And dedication to her craft is quite evident. When Burrs received her Bachelors and Masters degrees in asked what her most interesting performance was, Burrs Music from Virginia Commonwealth University and a stated that, two weeks after her daughter Naima was Doctorate of Musical Arts from Catholic University, she born, she performed with the Richmond Symphony for also managed to meet and marry the man of her dreams, their 4th of July celebration on a platform in Byrd Park’s Stacy. They have three children: Guy, the oldest (active in Fountain Lake! She also displays this stellar work ethic musical productions since childhood) will graduate from through her service to students at several universities. She the Charlotte School of Law this May; Naima, a violinist, is an Associate Professor at Virginia State University and, graduated VCU with a degree in music and is an active in the Fall, will be a professor at Longwood University, performer and teacher; and Morgan, a senior at Richmond driving over an hour each way to work with students at Community High, plays jazz guitar and has been accepted their Farmville campus. Plus, her weekends are filled with to both the Berklee College of Music and VCU. singing at services at St. James’s Episcopal Church, where The entire Edwards-Burrs family is wildly proud of she serves as one of the soprano soloists and sometimes Lisa’s many accomplishments as a wife, mother, profes- as guest soloist at masses and concerts at the Cathedral of sional musician and role model. Sacred Heart, where she is a member. Adele Johnson (portions of this essay were used with per- During the past year, Edwards-Burrs was cast as mission by the VCU School of Music) Donna Elvira in Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” with the summer Garden Opera of Farmville, performed in St. James’ Episcopal Church’s summer concert series, and traveled with a choir to Venice, Florence, and Rome from June to July. During Virginia’s celebration of the 150th anniver- sary of the Emancipation Proclamation, she performed with the Richmond Symphony and Chorus, soloing on two of Nkeiru Okoye’s “Songs of Harriet Tubman” and an original piece, “Emancipation Overture,” written by Virginia Union University’s Willis L. Barnett. The concert was broadcast on PBS stations throughout the country.

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Physical Therapist, Advance Care, LLC. Home Healthcare Jamelle Danielle Foster

r . Ja m e ll e Foster summed up Foster has been recognized by Who’s Who Among her young and productive life with the follow- American Colleges and Universities. She has had ing quote: “I am a product of Richmond Public the honor to be selected as the guest speaker for the DSchools … I received an awesome education and turned Scholastic Standout Awards Ceremony and enjoys a out just fine.” The latter is an understatement consider- life of servitude and volunteerism. Currently she works ing the great accomplishments Foster has been able to with Caring Hearts as a first responder for her church navigate over the past decade. She graduated in 1996 members at St. Paul’s Baptist Church. Her past commit- from Richmond Community High School in a class ments involved work with Rebuilding Richmond, where of 36. She continued her education at the University of she assisted the elderly with home safety assessments. Virginia, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in She performed community service at the Diabetic Foot biology in 2000. By 2006, Foster had received her doc- Clinics, through VCU’s Physical Therapy School and the torate in physical therapy from Virginia Commonwealth Minority Recruitment and Retention Committee. Foster University. She is an excellent example of what can be has also facilitated health fairs, after-school programs, accomplished by an RPS graduate and all RPS has to offer youth mentoring, and informative sessions regarding to transition exceptional students into productive adults, careers in physical therapy. mentors and educators. Today, Jamelle is employed by From Foster’s earliest memories, she had an inter- Advance Care, LLC as a physical therapist. est in math and science. She does not recall a big push for careers as a physical therapist while she was in school. Instead, she remembers a bigger push for lawyers, teachers, and other popular professions. As a young child she wanted to be a pediatrician. It wasn’t until after working a summer job at a pediatric office owned by a family friend that she discovered she needed to rethink her career choice. She became interested in physical therapy following a casual conversation with a family member. Her interest grew into passion so she did some research, took some time to weigh her options and then decided to pursue a career in physical therapy. She felt as if her new career choice was aligned with her values, interests and focus. Physical therapy encompassed the presence of trust, development of skills, communication, relation- ship building, and connecting with people. Foster had a propensity for transitioning easily while learning from new life experiences. It became evident to her that life was about changes which were sometimes masked in unconventional choices. While in school, she developed an interest in meeting new people and under- taking new experiences. She said, “Everyone in her group had a place… sometimes you have to break out from the crowd … you can be a part of the group, but the group shouldn’t lead you. You have to learn to make your own path.” Foster used her own experiences and trusted advice to make decisions without pressure. She credits her strength to family support, an eclectic mix of friends and empowering school experiences.

2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Foster remembers “being the voice of reason in her So what’s next? Foster plans to continue working in home group and following rules.” Despite being the “nerdy type” healthcare with homebound patients. Physical therapy and a self-proclaimed introvert prior to high school, she allows for more than one work setting so she has the said her fondest memories involved inclusiveness of ability to expand into the school system, work in hospi- diverse people and embracing continuous growth. tals or with outpatients. The choices are unlimited like the pending opportunities Foster remembers waiting in her talented life. moving from a comfort level of reading books to Success is getting to the place As far as future travel physically exploring oppor- plans, Foster wants to con- tunities at Binford Model where you can serve while tinue touring the world. Middle School. She discov- She has been to Europe, ered her love for travel and doing the things you love. several Caribbean islands, adventure during a trip to Dubai and Hawaii. In the Canada. RPS sparked her near future, she would love interest and love for travel. By the summer of her sopho- to visit Australia and ultimately Greece to see the white more year at Richmond Community High School, Foster wash buildings and blue seas. was afforded the opportunity to participate in the Foreign Foster has a strong belief that people should, “Treat Student Exchange Program. She traveled to France and others the way you want to be treated … even if you know lived with a family in Lyon. Her family also hosted a French you’re not going to get it back.” She engages with people student in the U.S. Foster reflects fondly on her experi- from diverse economic backgrounds and sees them at ences of speaking French and exploring a new culture. their weakest points. Her challenge is to connect with her Foster credits her high school drama teacher, Ms patients while assisting them to regain a sense of security, Gretchen Bullock, with introducing her to a way to escape control, and a better quality of life. from her relentless focus on science. The drama classes The Richmond community benefits from the invest- provided a diversion with multifaceted characters and ment that RPS made in Foster yielding an incredibly tal- twisting plots. The experiences transitioned the introvert ented and humane individual. She has just begun and into a more open and outgoing person. Bullock’s invest- the world is in for a pleasant surprise. Foster plans to ment in Foster led her to continue drama classes well continue her quest of servitude and volunteerism while beyond high school. She purposely pursued drama providing exceptional care for her patients. Her in college for the balance and adventure. The approach will continue to be holistic with exposure to building relationships, devel- a global focus on physical, financial and oping characters and engaging in new spiritual health. things became the catalyst for Foster’s success today. For a young woman, Foster has a plethora of experiences and advice. In spite of Foster’s life seem- She says, “Find out what you love ingly scripted and planned, she and make that [love] work for was a product of young parents you.” Success is getting to the during a time when most people place where you can serve while would have seen her birth as a dis- doing what you love. The latter traction. Every day she is thankful can be seen in Foster’s care, ser- that her family shaped her life with vice, and commitment to people in love, choices, boundaries and sup- our community. port. Foster is proud, yet very humble about her accomplishments. She appre- Odetta Johnson ciates every life experience.

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 13 M a r sh all-Walker Hig h S c hoo l

Regional Project Executive, Turner Construction Company Darien C. Grant

arien C. Grant has been a leader All of these projects would not have come to frui- in many major construction initiatives and he tion without his hard work and dedication. Although is emotionally attached to each of them. His Grant has been recognized for these achievements and Dinvolvement in the building of five major hospital proj- he has a number of illustrious titles and accolades asso- ects, a federal office building, and serving as Project ciated with his name, he is committed to doing his best Executive for the Martin Luther King, Jr. National to foster the success of others. Memorial each holds a special meaning for him. “It isn’t Grant’s focus and drive were developed early in life. the building structure that is great but the work that is His desire to achieve and be the best he could be was done inside the building that is important. Knowing the instilled in him as a youth by watching his mother. She structure will facilitate work that will change lives is what provided a solid foundation and as a single parent, she keeps me focused and driven.” raised him and his four siblings with limited resources and a true “can-do” perspective on life. She had a knack for figuring out how to make things work and doing what she could with what she had. He was further shaped by the many teachers and supporters he encountered in school. Grant says that, as an RPS student, he had tough teachers who challenged him to think and not memorize. “They graded hard, rode you, gave you too much work, and probed and pushed you to do better.” Because of that toughness, he was well prepared to face the academic challenges of college and law school. The teacher who made the greatest impression on him was Ms Janece Bibby. “She had the Claire Huxtable look before there was a Cosby Show. She could discipline you with just an eye-piercing look!” said Grant. The first day of school, she asked if he was the younger brother of Anthony Grant. When he responded yes, she pro- ceeded to tell him that if he didn’t want to be in her class he should leave. This was the first sign to Grant that Ms Bibby had a zero-tolerance policy for nonsense in her classroom. “Ms Bibby demanded the best from every student and if I could speak with her today I would tell her that she has no idea the difference she made in so many lives.” Grant says he would encourage today’s students to embrace the tough teachers and be very intentional about learning. With the onslaught of so much technology and various tools, it is easy for students to skim information and potentially miss the opportunity to go deeper and extract greater knowledge of subject matter.

14 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies With his mother’s positive spirit, the teachings of Ms The most meaningful volunteer initiative that Grant Bibby and others and his own desire to strive for success, participated in was with Children’s Hospital of the King’s Grant achieved academically as well as professionally. After Daughters (CHKD), which he visited during his last graduating from Marshall-Walker High School in 1984, undergraduate semester. While there he saw children with he attended Norfolk State University, where he received many different illnesses. “Seeing a sick child can weaken a Bachelor of Science in Construction Technology. A life- the mightiest of men,” said Grant. Although the children long interest in law led had compromised health him to pursue a Juris conditions they exuded a Doctorate degree from sense of hope and posi- the South Texas College Embrace the tough teachers and be tive energy. It was a rede- of Law. Although Grant fining moment in his life, never had a desire to prac- very intentional about learning. and helped put things in tice, the knowledge itself perspective. Grant said, has proven very helpful in “God sent me there for a understanding risk management and other construction- reason: to humble me. And it did. I went back to my apart- related protocols. He has also pursued continuing educa- ment and prayed. The experience reconnected me to God.” tion opportunities at George Washington University and Grant has carried that same sense of humility and Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management. spirituality throughout his adult life. In personal and pro- Volunteerism is a part of Darien Grant’s DNA. His fessional interactions, Grant is committed to improving recent community involvement includes work with the life for others. Although there has been continual prog- Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, coaching foot- ress in his 25 years with Turner Construction, he feels his ball and basketball for Spotsylvania Parks & Recreation, greatest accomplishments are being a part of the success and co-chairing the U.S. Dream Academy. While in col- of others. As a leader within the firm, he prides himself lege, as a member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity, he par- on exhibiting a leadership style based on the application ticipated in numerous volunteer and community focused of real life experiences. He mentors fellow employees and activities including literacy campaigns, blood drives, others to provide guidance regarding the career paths working with tutorial programs, and supporting scholar- they choose. By helping others think about the practical ship fundraisers. application of what they plan to study or the careers they pursue, he hopes they will achieve personal and professional fulfillment. Following his career in construction, Grant plans to spend time enjoying life by teaching in some capac- ity. Whether it involves impromptu advice to an acquain- tance or training in a more formal setting, he is driven to see others succeed in whatever they seek to do. He says, “The greatest gift you can give people doesn’t come from a store and you cannot wrap it in a gift box. God has truly blessed me with a body of knowledge that I want to share with others.” Darien Grant is a leading construction executive who has been repeatedly recognized for his work. He is a loving father who sees his greatest adventure as being a parent. He is a leader who has utilized his skills to support his community. And he is a spiritual man who is compelled to use his God-given talents to make a difference helping others. Andrea Wright

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 15 M aggie Walker Hig h S c hoo l

Captain (Ret.), U.S. Public Health Service Veterinary Corps Dianne Turner McRae

r . D i a n n e T u r n e r m C r ae, In addition to having strong role models at home, a servant leader and avid learner, has dedicated McRae was fortunate to have principals and teachers at her life’s passion to the care of animals. With West End Elementary School, Randolph Junior High Da strong support system of family and friends, she School and Maggie L. Walker High School who chal- never let challenges stand in the way of accomplishing lenged her academically and helped her to cultivate her dreams. McRae’s determination and fortitude has her career aspirations. McRae’s fifth grade teacher, Ms empowered many people to also believe in themselves Lavern Smith, saw her potential and encouraged her to and strive for success. study hard so that she could go to college. In 1947, McRae was born in Richmond, Virginia While attending Maggie L. Walker High School, to her parents, Willie and Portia Turner. As a child, she principle Dr Harry Williams served as a father figure and always knew she wanted to work with animals. McRae’s a friend to McRae and her fellow classmates. McRae’s sci- parents constantly told her that there was nothing that ence teachers, Mr Harold Green and Mr Hewlett, also she could not achieve. Her father, a self-employed con- made lasting impressions on her as they taught her how tractor, always reminded her of the importance of being to conduct research using quantitative methodologies. able to provide for herself. McRae’s father said, “Don’t With their guidance she competed in a science fair spon- depend on luck. Be prepared when opportunity knocks.” sored by Ford Motor Company and won third place. In These words of wisdom remained with McRae, and played addition to excelling academically, McRae also played the a critical role in her future accomplishments. clarinet in the marching band led by Dr Joseph Kennedy, a highly esteemed jazz violinist. After graduating from high school in 1965, McRae attended Virginia Union University for two semesters. Her love for animals eventually compelled her to transfer to Tuskegee Institute in Tuskegee, Alabama. With strong support from her family, McRae moved away from home to major in veterinary science. Moving to a state she never visited before, and having no family or friends nearby, was an eye-opening experience for McRae. However, she quickly made friends with fellow students and got involved with activities on campus. Having a part-time job working in the school’s barn also helped her to adjust to being away from her family and gave her the opportunity to care for various animals firsthand. She enjoyed her coursework and did extremely well academically, making the Dean’s list every semester. In 1976, as one of three females in her graduating class, McRae earned the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree.

16 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies After college McRae moved Since retiring, McRae has to Washington, DC where she devoted most of her time to proudly served 22 years in the serving her community through Veterinary Commission Corps of various volunteer engagements. the Public Health Services (PHS) as She currently serves on the advi- its first female, African-American vet- sory council board for the President erinarian. During this time, McRae was Woodrow Wilson House Museum, a able to further her education at Loma Linda site of the National Trust for the Historic University, earning a Masters of Public Health Preservation in Washington, DC She enjoys Service in 1986. She received many accolades throughout organizing fundraisers to preserve the legacy of this her career with the Food and Drug Administration as a historic site home of the United States’ 28th President. reviewer of research data for the determination of safe McRae is also a member of the Washington Performing and effective uses of medicines for food animals. Arts Society’s Women Committee (WPAS) Adoption McRae has been very fortunate to have people in Program. In 2013, the White House recognized WPAS her life who encouraged and inspired her to do the for bringing world-class performances to our nation’s same for others in the community. While serving in the capital, from concert hall premieres to in-school work- PHS, she established the first mentoring committee for shops. As a member of WPAS, McRae helps fifth-grade junior officers. As a result, she helped to increase the students learn and respect people of diverse backgrounds, number of female veterinarians of various nationalities and become global citizens by connecting with foreign in the PHS. McRae also embassies. McRae also made a positive impres- reminds students that each sion on school-aged stu- of them are considered the dents in Washington, DC Don’t depend on luck. future Ambassadors of the by regularly participating America. in school career days. Be prepared when McRae is a financial McRae retired from supporter of various the PHS In 1998, but she opportunity knocks. organizations including was immediately re-hired the Montgomery County by the FDA Center for Humane Society, Humane Veterinary Medicine to continue a high-priority assign- Society of Veterinary Medical Society, and Humane ment involving the removal of numerous pre-1962 ani- Society of the United States, as well as Alley Cats, Animal mal drugs which lacked data to support claims on labels Sheltering, and the Red Cross. for animal safety, effectiveness and human food safety. McRae has accomplished many feats throughout Upon successful completion of this assignment, she her life and remains optimistic about what the future was awarded the PHS Service Award. In 2009, after 11 holds. Her fondest accomplishment was her confirma- years of service, McRae retired from the Food and Drug tion to Catholicism and joining St. Patrick’s Catholic Administration. Church in Richmond, Virginia in 2011. She firmly believes that none of her personal or professional accomplishments would have been possible without the grace of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Aprile Serry-Brown

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 17 t H O m a s J e f f e r so n H i g h S c hoo l

Superintendent, Virginia Military Institute J.H. Binford Peay III

Today, Peay continues his family’s commitment to education and to VMI, where he, his father and two sons graduated. Serving as VMI’s 14th Superintendent (a position equivalent to president), Peay is dedicated to the mission of providing a high-quality undergraduate education and leadership training to more than 1600 young men and women. He leads the charge to educate, prepare and develop honorable leaders who are posi- tioned to serve and succeed in their chosen endeavors. Looking back on his own days as a cadet in the early 1960s, Peay considers VMI to be as demanding academically and physically today as it was then. Cadets, he notes, look forward to a challenge and to ascending each year to greater responsibility. While Peay identifies technological advancements as one major change from when he was a cadet, he notes that the fundamentals of learning are still the same. Fundamentals like those were instilled in him as a youngster growing up in Richmond’s Ginter Park. Peay’s education started at Ginter Park Elementary, the school his mother had attended and where the same principal was still at the helm when he arrived. He commends Richmond Public Schools for providing him with a good, solid education, especially during his formative years. Growing up in a strong, loving family, his parents demanded excellence and encouraged him to always take tough courses. Throughout his school days, Peay remembers homework being checked every a m e s H e n r y B i n f o r d P e ay, i i i , night, as his mother was a stickler for good writing a retired Army four-star General and current and verbiage. “It’s important for families to demand Superintendent of the Virginia Military Institute excellence, provide structure and instill a strong work J(VMI), is part of a rich legacy of educating young people ethic,” Peay said. He went on to Chandler Junior High, that dates back to the nineteenth century. Named after his then to Thomas Jefferson High School, where he cred- father and grandfather, Peay recently discovered the con- its his teachers for challenging him to enroll in college nections his name has to the long history of Richmond level courses, equivalent to today’s AP courses. While Public Schools. His great grandfather, James H. Peay, Jr., academics were important, Peay also participated in was named Bellevue School’s first principal in 1870 when sports and was quarterback of the Thomas Jefferson his colleague and good friend, James H. Binford (for football team, a position he would also play at VMI. whom Binford Middle School is named) was appointed Peay’s fondest memories of his years in Richmond as the first superintendent of Richmond Public Schools. schools are the friendships made with classmates that Peay, who would later become the city’s second super- continue today. “Looking back,” Peay reflects, “I had intendent, honored his friend by naming his son James the blessing of a strong family, wonderful friends, and Henry Binford Peay – a name that has been passed down great schools that all contributed to any success that for five generations. I’ve experienced.”

18 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Graduating from Thomas Jefferson in 1958, Peay Peay and his wife, Pamela, whose father was also followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued VMI within the Army, were married in 1972. They have two sons, out applying to any other school. When he graduated in who followed in their father’s footsteps to become VMI 1962, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant of Field graduates and commissioned Army officers with mul- Artillery and received a tiple tours of duty in Iraq. Bachelor of Science degree Peay and his sons also in Civil Engineering. As share a commitment to the a VMI graduate, he was Education is never over – Boys Scouts of America, required to serve a tour of as each of them attained duty in the Army. So he it continues for the rank of Eagle Scout in placed on hold the posi- their youth. Ten years ago, tions he had been offered the rest of your life. Peay was honored with the at DuPont and AT&T with Distinguished Eagle Scout plans to pursue them when Award, recognizing his he returned. Around that time, the Vietnam War com- outstanding service to his profession and community. menced and Peay decided to stay in the Army longer than “Scouting is a fabulous youth development program of that initial tour – 35 years longer. What he most liked about which I was proud to be a part,” Peay added. the Army was its mission, as well as the commission and When asked what advice he would offer young camaraderie it offered. people today, Peay said, “live by the Golden Rule. Always “My duty in the Army was my greatest adventure,” work hard with honor. Education is never over – it con- Peay said. “It provided travel and relationships with tinues for the rest of your life. Demand excellence. Be people from around the world.” When the long Vietnam humble. Always persevere. Everyone will stumble, but we War concluded, Peay was a member of the team charged must always pick ourselves up. Involve yourself in a pro- with rebuilding the Army in its aftermath. “We were fession you feel passionately about. Care deeply – bone focused on proficiency, leadership, modernization, train- deep – about your friends as well as people that are your ing, values and character – putting the Army Team back subordinates.” together,” he explained. Myra Goodman Smith and Trayce Riddick Peay has received numerous military awards and decorations, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Army Distinguished Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Silver Star and Purple Heart. He wears U.S. campaign ribbons for combat duty in Vietnam, (seven campaigns) and Saudi Arabia (three campaigns), and has received foreign awards from Vietnam, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. When he retired from the Army, he was approached by VMI to become Superintendent in 2003. He saw this opportunity not only as a challenge, but as “payback” to a school that had such a huge influence on him and his family. Peay, who believes in the importance of staying active, has no plans to retire. Instead, his next goal is to become a gentleman farmer.

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 19 A r m s t r o n g H i g h S c hoo l

Director of Guidance Services (Ret.), Richmond Public Schools LaVerne Beard Spurlock

“It is my great joy to have taught and served as a counselor for Richmond Public Schools for 39 years and 11 months,” she said. “I met and enjoyed some of the greatest young people and parents with whom you could have hoped to have had contact. Students were encouraged to stretch themselves academically and they did. Their accomplishments have been extraordinary.” Spurlock grew up in what’s now considered the Carver neighborhood. She attended Elba Elementary School on Marshall Street, Moore Street (now Carver), Monroe and Booker T. Washington schools before graduating from Armstrong in 1946 as valedictorian. She learned many valuable lessons at Richmond’s schools. “I never had a study hall period,” she said. “That taught me to use my time at school well and not to pass up opportunities to learn more.” She recalls all of her teachers “with great pleasure,” adding that she didn’t have much contact with the principals. “Mr. George Peterson was the assistant principal when I attended Armstrong. Of course we were all proud of him, and he was such a handsome young man at the time.” Spurlock speaks with the precision and enunciation that was instilled in her as a student. “We had to speak in complete sentences. It mattered not what class it was. The lesson was to speak correctly and clearly at all times.” After high school, Spurlock enrolled in Virginia State University. “Thanks to my education, I was prepared for the first year of college. I had no problem with my transition.” Spurlock didn’t plan to study education – rather, she majored in biology, with the intent of pursuing a medical degree. However, she came to the conclusion that she “could not ever lose a patient” and decided to teach instead. r. LaVerne B e a r d S p u r l o c k She graduated from Virginia State in 1950 and got her remembers when her geometry teacher at foot in the door with Richmond schools as a long-term Armstrong High School asked whether she could substitute. She started full time as a biology teacher in Dtutor a senior who was struggling with the subject. Unless her January 1951 at Maggie L. Walker High School which was schoolmate passed the class, she wouldn’t graduate. “I went “one big family. People cared about each other.” In 1961 she to that girl’s house from February to May and reviewed the became a counselor. In 1970 she moved to John Marshall work with her,” said Spurlock, recounting her fondest school High School, where she served as the guidance depart- memory. “It seemed so matter-of-fact to me. She passed, and ment head until 1986. Then, she became the city’s guidance I had a real sense of achievement.” That assistance foretold supervisor until her retirement in 1991. a career of helping Richmond Public Schools students, first as a biology teacher, then as a guidance counselor and ultimately as the system’s director of guidance services. Spurlock leaves a legacy of dedication, passion and professionalism after a lifelong commitment to the city’s schools, first as a student and then for nearly 40 years as an educator.

20 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Meanwhile, as she taught and counseled students She’s also been involved with the Richmond chapter of and raised her own family, Spurlock was also continuing the National Coalition of 100 Black Women; the Henrico to learn and earn degrees. In 1954, she earned her master’s Area Mental Health Services Board; The Links Inc.; and the from Columbia University. She received a certificate of Richmond Area Psychiatric Clinic. And she continues to Advanced Graduate Studies from the University of Virginia collect school supplies with one of her social clubs. “I don’t in 1974. Ten years later, she like to sit still,” she chuck- earned her Ed.D. from led. “The body is meant to Virginia Tech. “I believed move, and I stay active.” in what I preached – go Take advantage of whatever your With sparkling silver to school, be prepared hair and a twinkle in her and keep learning,” she teachers and principals offer to you eye, it’s easy to see that life said. “Earning that doc- continues to enrich and tor of education degree at as another chance to learn more. engage her. “My future that stage in my life, when plans include travel and I was in my 50s, was fairly Go to school every day prepared for participation in whatever unusual then.” I can join to strengthen Throughout her pro- another wonderful day. my knowledge about the fessional and personal life, game of bridge,” Spurlock Spurlock has remained said. “I have always said busy. She was among the founders of Virginia Heroes, that I want to read all of the famous children’s books again. Partnership for the Future and Students Interested in The stories have a wealth of valuable insights to pass on to Developing Academic Achievement. Honors include being my great-grandchild and his friends.” named one of Richmond’s History Makers and Secondary Spurlock has served tens of thousands of Richmond School Counselor of the Year. She has many activities – she is area school children through her roles as a school coun- past president of the Virginia School Counselor Association, selor and mentor through various organizations. She regu- is active in the Richmond chapter of Delta Sigma Theta and larly runs into former students and relishes their friendship. is a longtime member of Ebenezer Baptist Church, where “I am always invited to the reunions, and I go. It is warming she sings in the Women’s and Sanctuary choirs and has held to be recognized when former students see me at various a variety of leadership positions. places – even on vacation one year!” She offers students today these words of wisdom: “Take advantage of whatever your teachers and principals offer to you as another chance to learn more. Go to school every day prepared for another wonderful day.” Pamela Stallsmith

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 21 t H O m a s J e f f e r so n H i g h S c hoo l

Chairman Emeritus, Williams Mullen Julious P. Smith, Jr

Smith who “was never short on ambition or self- esteem” was a good student who appreciated the “social aspects” of school. He also took advantage of the education opportunities available to him. He studied French in grades 5–12. He also showed an aptitude for and enjoyed History. A watershed event occurred during his junior year when a teacher at TJ named Miss Henna keenly identified an untapped strength in Smith – mathematics – and invited him to participate in an advanced math track. “At first, I was a little out of my depth. Everyone else in the class, I think there were 10, were strong math students who pursued math or science as a career.” Smith would ultimately graduate from Hampden Sydney College with a BS in History before graduating from The University of Virginia School of Law in 1968. “Miss Henna continued to encourage me and made sure that a liberal arts kid stayed with the future math majors.” A basketball and football player in middle school, Smith played only football when he arrived at TJ. It was his coach, Charles Cooper, a former Marine whose bravery as one of the first to land at Iwo Jima, surviving two bullet wounds that earned him a Purple Heart, that made a particular impression on Smith. Cooper’s war-time accomplishments were surreal, but it was his work with the young men of TJ that caught Smith’s eye. “A good leader knows that the sum is greater than its parts,” says Smith. Like Miss Henna, Coach Cooper shared a unique ability to leverage individual strengths and motivate people. “He taught me the importance of bringing passion to your job.” Smith joined the law firm of Williams Mullen as a ulious P. (Joey) Smith, Jr. moved to young lawyer in 1968 and became its CEO in 1984. He the Carytown area of Richmond from Sandston as a expertly led the firm’s growth from 25 lawyers in one young boy, the only child of a machinist father from local office to more than 300 lawyers and $150 million JNorth Carolina and a mother who spent her career with in gross revenues across twelve offices in Virginia, North C & O Railroad. “I lived in the Fan before it was fash- Carolina, Washington, DC and London. ionable,” he says with a smile. Smith attended Albert H. Concurrently, Smith continued to pursue his passion Hill Middle School and Thomas Jefferson High School. for sports, coaching the St. Bridget’s and Collegiate School Unknowingly, he found himself in the company of many football teams for more than 20 years while his children of Richmond’s future business and political superstars. were in school. “Coaching adolescent boys was perhaps Ultimately, he joined their ranks. “Many called Thomas the best training I had for managing a large law firm,” says Jefferson High School the best private public school in Smith. In addition, he is a former Virginia State chairman the state,” says Smith. for the United States Olympic Committee, serves on the board of directors of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame, is a former member of the Virginia Athletics Foundation and a recipient of the Richmond Touchdown Club’s Micheli Award for his outstanding contribution to Richmond youth.

22 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies In 2003, Hampden-Sydney The 16th floor of the building College recognized his contri- at 10th and Canal Streets that bution to Richmond’s youth by bears the firm’s name houses The presenting him its Patrick Henry Julious P. Smith, Jr. Board Room, award. He will always be a dedi- a richly paneled room with cated UVA sports fan who counts floor-to-ceiling windows com- Mike London and Tony Bennett manding breathtaking views of the among his friends. (He very much Manchester District and the Shockoe enjoyed UVA’s 2014 basketball season.) Valley. The room, which was dedicated Smith’s service goes beyond sports. He in 2011 to a standing room only crowd of is a member of the State Council of Higher family, colleagues and contemporaries, aptly Education for Virginia and the Chair of Richmond captures the significance of his accomplishments. Economic Development Authority (EDA). He is a former The celebration, however, was paid little attention to by member of the board of trustees of Hampden-Sydney the young children passing time underneath the room- College and the Virginia Foundation for Independent length mahogany conference table. He was reminded Colleges, the former chair of the Virginia chapter of the of the boardroom dedication event recently when a Society of International Business Fellows, past chairman staffer found a tiny blue ribbon tied around a floor fix- of the Greater Richmond United Way Campaign and a ture under the conference room table. It was a memento member of The Salvation left to him by his playful Army Boys and Girls grandchildren. Smith’s Club Hall of Fame and eyes sparkled, noting has chaired numerous There’s nothing more important once again that every- fundraising events, and thing he has achieved also serves on several to success than setting goals – would mean nothing if corporate boards. it weren’t for his family. There’s no question big or small – and achieving them. Today, as Chairman the Richmond commu- Emeritus, Smith con- nity is better because of tinues to practice law, Smith. His greatest accomplishment, however, is his follow his passions and mentor the next generation. family. He and his wife Sherrill are extremely proud He is a regular contributor to Managing Partner mag- of their children. His daughter, Sarah Gray Parrish, azine, where he writes about organizational manage- a former Coach employee in New York resides in ment and successful leadership. His advice to today’s Charlottesville with her husband Ned and their three students is characteristic of the advice he parlays to children. His older son, Jody, is a doctor in Richmond law firms around the world. “Successful people have who, along with his wife Melinda, have three children. a plan and stay on message,” says Smith. He teaches His other son, Hayes, and his wife, Jill and their three young lawyers, students and even his own grandchil- children, live in Washington, DC Hayes has law and dren the importance of setting goals. “Stay focused,” is business degrees and works as an investment banker. a piece of advice he shares liberally. “There’s nothing Smith and his wife set an important goal early in their more important to success than setting goals – big or marriage. They would raise their children to be success- small – and achieving them.” ful and happy in their own right. In that, the Smiths are Shannon Webb overachievers. Smith gives the credit for the greatest source of his pride – his children and grandchildren – to his wife. “Sherrill did 90% of the work.”

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 23 Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation Focus Areas and Programs

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation and the ■ MARSS (Mentoring and Reading Student to Richmond community have an opportunity to support Student) matches high school students with first the building of a 21st Century approach to enhance the graders to read twice a week. The first graders educational and teaching experience for students and are enhancing their reading skills, expanding teachers respectively. In addition, the participation of knowledge, increasing vocabulary, and developing community partners complements on-going work and relationships with role models. The high schoolers helps to create innovative and exciting ways to engage obtain service learning experience, a small stipend, and motivate students. The Foundation works within donation to a scholarship fund for each semester three primary areas of concentration: of participation, and gratification that only mentoring can bring. MARSS is managed by the ■ Student Success – enrichment support for Foundation’s Partner Liaison, Kate Schenk. programs both during and after the school day ■ Middle School Renaissance provides supportive ■ Professional Development –continuing and enrichment services for students, teachers, education and support for teachers and principals through a multi-faceted ■ Post Secondary Learning – scholarships and approach -- leadership training and coaching for other supports for graduating seniors to attend principals; tutoring, mentoring, and after school college or career training programming focusing on primary skill building, career exploration, and special interests; and classroom support such as equipment and supplies. Programs MRS is managed by Jeanine Turner and her team of Bryan Schubring, Tashiana Ivy and Cynthia Gant. Funds raised by the RPS Education Foundation support comprehensive, evidence-based programs and best ■ TIE (Teaching Innovation and Excellence) offers practices. The Foundation is committed to providing professional development support for teachers and reinforcements to students and teachers that will foster a classroom upgrades on a competitive basis. The more valuable learning and teaching experience. Foundation also raises money to support the RPS annual Leadership Institute for teachers to hone To augment the Foundation’s staff of two, contractors their skills prior to the start of the new school year. are engaged for comprehensive programs that require full time staff. Contractors strengthen the Foundation ■ Scholarships present an opportunity for and allow it to administer programs, expand its reach, graduating seniors to pursue advanced learning. and broaden impact. The Foundation has increased the number of scholarships available that provide financial Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation assistance to assist with tuition or related expenses raises funds for these programs: for continuing education. Awards are based ■ Math Teacher Academy offers a learning on high school GPA, community service, and community for middle school math teachers to financial need. improve knowledge through intensive training, The Foundation also acts as the fiscal sponsor for spe- practice, instruction cohorts, 1-to-1 and group cial groups as they raise funds for specific RPS programs coaching; content delivery is enhanced with including Community of Caring, Chimborazo Model improved skills, innovative materials, and new School Task Force, Earning by Learning, and Richmond equipment; each middle school will create a model Community High School Advisory Board. math classroom. The Math Teacher Academy is managed by Axiom Educators, LLC.

24 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Summary In 2010 the Foundation completed a restructuring process which resulted the hiring of an executive director and the establishment of its first development plan. Since then the Foundation has more than quadrupled its rev- enue facilitating $1.2 million in contributions during FYE 2013 which: ■ enhanced the Middle Schools Renaissance Program by supporting the training of 500 volunteers, professional development for principals, enrichment activities for nearly 1000 students; ■ solicited donors and facilitated the awarding of 42 scholarships available to graduating seniors who attend college or a professional/technical school; ■ piloted a new literacy program that helped 10 first graders significantly improve their reading skills by matching them with high school reading mentors; ■ collaborated with a major corporation to award $500 grants to 29 teachers to support classroom equipment, supplies and technology; ■ recognized the accomplishments of 8 RPS alumni for their professional accomplishments and community service at the annual Living Legacies Breakfast; ■ assisted four program partners in raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for programs in specific schools; ■ coordinated and allocated in-kind donations including laptops, printers, musical instruments, books and construction services; and ■ assessed programs to determine impact and value. In Richmond Public Schools there are smart, creative teachers, dedicated principals and administrators, and a superintendent who is a strategic, visionary leader. But they can’t do it alone. They need help. Education is an investment that lasts a lifetime. Assistance from the Richmond community will surely accelerate the opportunity for RPS students to succeed.

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 25 Thanks from the Executive Director

April 25, 2014

Greetings Friends! Thank you for sharing your time with us at this year’s Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Breakfast. It is through this program that we recognize alumni of Richmond Public Schools who exemplify the Living Legacies criteria of leading extraordinary, honorable lives as inspirational leaders. We want to thank our dedicated committee of community leaders who reviewed all of the nominations and undertook the difficult task of making selections. This souvenir journal helps to commemorate these admirable alumni and highlight their accomplishments. We are already receiving nominations for our next class of honorees, so it’s not too early to send an email to [email protected] and I will reply with a nomination form. We think this is a wonderful way to reconnect with alumni and engage the community in the process. Please tell your family, friends and colleagues to nominate their favorite classmate or others who are deserving of this recognition. This program is successful because of the many people who contributed ideas, time, and talent. We appreciate your support and look forward to our continued partnership. Thanks so much!

Adele Johnson Executive Director Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation

26 2014 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation Board of Trustees

Chairperson Vice Chairperson Brendan McCormick Dr. David Torain 70 Douglass Communications, LLC Hampton University

Secretary Treasurer Dr. Patricia Fishback Benjamin J. Lambert, IV Retired Educator SunTrust Investment Services

Board Members Rev. Benjamin P. Campbell Dr. Monroe Harris Richmond Hill Virginia Oral and Facial Surgery Lisa Dawson Otis Jones Zacharias Ganey Health Institute IBM Theodore J. Edlich IV Rosemary Nichols Jones Altria Client Services J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Sherrard Gardner Lee Switz Richmond Public Schools Lee Switz and Associates Sarah Radcliffe Gross Shannon Webb Virginia and National PTA Boards Community Volunteer

Ex-Officio Trustees Staff Dr. Dana Bedden Adele Johnson Superintendent, Richmond City Schools executive director Rev. Donald Coleman Kate Schenk chairperson partner liaison Richmond School Board Ieisha Rogers Kristen Larson student intern vice-chairperson Richmond School Board

Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 27 Pride of RPS: Living Legacies Former Honorees

Class of 2012 Class of 2013 Robert “Bobby” Bayliss Kermit W. Blount Tennis Coach, University of Notre Dame Head Football Coach, Delaware State University Thomas Jefferson High School Armstrong High School, 1976 James “Plunky” Branch Dr. Benjamin E. Haithcock Composer, Musician, Producer Thoracic Surgeon, University of North Carolina Maggie Walker High School Richmond Community High School, 1989 J. Alfred Broaddus Peg Holliday Former President, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond Volunteer, American Red Cross Thomas Jefferson High School Thomas Jefferson High School, 1954 Beverly “BJ” Brown and Robert L. Payne George K. Martin Esquire Co-Founders, Richmond Jazz Society Managing Partner - Richmond Office, McGuire Woods Maggie Walker High School Thomas Jefferson High School, 1971 Jay M. Ipson Gary T. McCollum Founder and Executive Director SVP & General Manager Virginia Holocaust Museum Cox Communications, Inc. - Virginia Thomas Jefferson High School Huguenot High School, 1977 The Honorable Cynthia Newbille Dr. Anthony J. Nottingham Member, Richmond City Council Principal, J. W. Parker Middle School Armstrong High School Huguenot High School, 1991 Desiree Roots Centeio Major General (Ret.) Merdith W. B. (Bo) Temple Actor, Vocalist, Entertainer U.S. Army Corps of Engineering Jefferson, Huguenot, Wythe High School Thomas Jefferson High School, 1971 Gladys Wilder, NBCT Samantha Thompson Educator, Richmond Public Schools Founder, Esteem Teens Mentoring Program John F. Kennedy High School JHW High School, 1986

The Pride of RPS: Living Legacies The Pride of rPS: Living Legacies

For more information, please contact Adele Johnson Executive Director Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation 301 North 9th Street, 17th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219 804.780.8623 | [email protected] www.RPSeducationfoundation.org