Except for the stage, the room was dark for most of the evening. Yet the America’s Center ballroom glowed with pride and promise as educators, students, and community champions gathered for the St. Louis American Foundation’s 38th Annual Salute to Excellence in Education Scholarship and Awards Gala on November 1.
From the first word to the final ovation, the night celebrated the transformative power of investing in education—a field often unsung but essential to every community’s success.
“For 38 years, the St. Louis American Foundation has recognized our heroes of education,” said Raven Whitener, the Foundation’s director. “Teachers, administrators, and advocates pour their hearts into the success of children in our community.”
Board Chair Michael Holmes echoed her sentiment.
“At a time when so much divides our nation, it’s comforting to see people gathered to honor those who dedicate their lives to creating a better future for our children,” Holmes said. “We thank God for every person in this room who chooses to be a steward of young people’s success.”
The evening was made possible by more than 20 sponsors, including the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, World Wide Technology, Centene Corporation, The Steward Family Foundation, The Regional Business Council, Ameren, and The Opportunity Trust.
Mark Stallion of UB Greensfelder and Errin Braddock of Enterprise Mobility served as dinner co-chairs. For Braddock, the moment was deeply personal—his mother, Antoinette “Toni” Bailey, chaired the same gala 20 years ago.
“My mom taught me that making a difference starts with educating yourself and others,” Braddock said. “Tonight is a full-circle moment. Dr. Suggs, Dr. Fowler, Maxine Clark, Bob Fox, and Mary Grimes have all shown me what it means to care fiercely for our kids and their futures.”
As she has done for years, Mistress of Ceremonies Carol Daniel guided the evening with grace, reflecting on nearly four decades of impact and more than $18 million in scholarships and education grants.
“In 38 years, this salute has honored the region’s most inspiring educators,” Daniel said. “This year alone, we provided nearly $2.4 million in scholarships—investments not only in education, but in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.”
The Foundation’s scholarships were presented through partnerships with area institutions including Harris-Stowe State University, Maryville University, Saint Louis University, Washington University, Webster University, UMSL, St. Louis Community College, Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing, and SIU–Edwardsville.
“Much like the St. Louis American Foundation, Harris-Stowe seeks students with great potential,” said HSSU President Dr. LaTonia Collins Smith. “We bring them from across the nation to explore all the possibilities higher education offers.”
Maryville University President Dr. Daniel Shipp invited Suggs Scholar and third-year student Micaiah Johnson to share her story.
“I want to thank the Foundation and Maryville University for believing in students who dream big, work hard and want to make a difference,” Johnson said. “Education isn’t about personal achievement—it’s about legacy, leadership, and lifting others as we climb. Your belief in us gives us the courage to believe in ourselves.”
SIUE Chancellor Dr. James Minor, a 2023 Stellar Performer award recipient, reinforced the message. “Potential never expires, and perseverance defines excellence,” he said. “We are changing the trajectory of lives—and this community.”
Daniel captured the evening’s energy perfectly with her remarks during the scholarship portion of the program.
“This isn’t just a good feeling because they received scholarships—it is a powerful force,” Daniel said. “You are part of a force tonight that is changing the landscape of this city, this county, and this nation.”
This year’s educator honorees exemplified servant leadership: Dr. Rhonda Key, deputy superintendent, Hazelwood School District; Tambra Pendleton, founding principal, Believe Academy; Dr. Michael Peoples, principal, University City High School; Dr. Michael Triplett, superintendent, Normandy Schools Collaborative; and Erica Williams, assistant school leader, Momentum Academy.
“Education is more important than ever,” Williams said. “Our systems are struggling, and resources are limited. Now more than ever, we must depend on one another, and serve with heart.”
Maxine Clark and Bob Fox received the Champions in Education awards for their lifelong commitment to equity – including their investment in Teach For America.
“I wouldn’t be here without my teachers,” Clark said. “Our mission has always been to ensure every child has access to quality education. When we work together, one plus one can equal one thousand.”
“Students need culturally relevant education,” Fox added. “Lessons that affirm who they are and where they come from.”
Carol Daniel summed up their impact: “Maxine Clark and Bob Fox continue to make St. Louis a stronger, more equitable, and hopeful community—without apology.”
Mary Elizabeth Grimes, president of Marian Middle School and the 2025 Stellar Performer honoree, moved the audience with her testimony.
“When you educate a girl, you transform generations,” she said. “At Marian, we teach our girls their worth before the world teaches them to shrink. We nurture their purpose and give them tools to rise boldly into the future. Our girls remind us that hope is never wasted.”
Grimes honored her late mother, Lucille Grimes, and thanked Dr. Donald M. Suggs, publisher of The St. Louis American and founder of the Foundation.
“Dr. Suggs, your commitment to telling our stories and lifting our voices has made The St. Louis American a national treasure,” Grimes said. “Investing in education isn’t just the right thing—it’s the smart thing.”
The evening closed with the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Dr. Flint Fowler, retired president of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis.
Holmes, who has known Fowler for nearly 50 years, introduced him as only a longtime friend could.
“Flint has improved the lives of so many, and even with all his accomplishments, he’s still the same humble, kind person I met decades ago,” Holmes said.
Fowler reflected on his journey and lessons learned—including from his days as a Boy Scout.
“They taught us to leave things better than we found them,” he said. “That means we have a responsibility to positively impact our communities. They also taught me: when you start something, finish it.”
He did exactly that in his decades of service to the region through the Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis.
“I’ve spent my career helping young people find opportunity and prepare for their futures,” he said. “My mother taught me that success shouldn’t give you a big head — it should give you a big heart.”
He left the audience with three parting words that perfectly summed up the night.
“Love never fails,” Fowler said.