Along with the honorees, the scholars and the overall ambience that is an ode to Black excellence, fashion is part of the tradition of The St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence In Education Scholarship and Awards Gala.
And For year 38, everyone in attendance once again understood the assignment Saturday evening at America’s Center. The icing on the cake for 2025 was seeing honorees worthy of fashion awards along with their educator accolades.
Very few would argue with Stellar Performer Mary Elizabeth Grimes being crowned best dressed. Her black gown with the blazer-cut bodice was a fashion master class in how the perfect structure can elevate a look. Paired with the drama of the flared hem, she stopped guests in their tracks the entire night. Ms. Grimes also knew to go demure with the accessories as to not overshadow the statement made by the dress.
But she wasn’t the only honoree serving style inspiration. Dr. Michael Peoples, principal of University City High School and Director of Secondary Education for the University City School District, left an impression. Making a regal entrance, he wore a royal purple velvet suit with a satin collar—perfectly complementing the night’s theme. Tamara Pendleton, Founding Principal of Believe Academy in St. Louis and a fellow honoree, turned heads in a floor-length, off-the-shoulder black gown. It was adorned with silver vine details that shimmered under the lights.
Normandy Schools Collaborative Superintendent Dr. Michael Triplett demonstrated the versatility in men’s formalwear with his textured winter white tuxedo jacket. So did Gary Boyd, aka “Mr. Them Yo People.” He brought his signature flair to the event in a black Armani suit with gold floral detailing and a jeweled collar. His trademark black and jeweled emperor crown added a royal twist that drew smiles and camera flashes alike.
St. Louis radio veteran and iHeart Media personality BJ the DJ represented for “the classic man” in an all-black suit with a matching vest and pocket square. His brim from Yuppie Club perfectly blended classic style with urban cool. Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis President Michael P. McMillan’s “power suit” tuxedo also deserves a mention.
Presenters, family and supporters also matched the top-tier style tone set by the fashionable honorees. June Fowler, wife of 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Dr. Flint Fowler, stunned in her elegant floor-length jacket with gold embellishments. And Toni Bailey, mother of 2025 Education Salute dinner co-chair Errin Braddock, demonstrated contemporary elegance. Her sleeveless white blouse – with an oversized bow in front – and silver sequin pants reinforced the unrestricted style norms of 21st century black-tie attire. Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith, president of Harris-Stowe State University, also demonstrated the payoff of bold formal attire. Her yellow sequined gown with silver and gold and blue designs that instantly drew eyes to the dress.
The names mentioned are just a few of the hundreds who took formal style to the max at the St. Louis American Foundation’s 38th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala last Saturday.
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