By Taiwo AKINLAMI
Last night, the Columbus community came together in an inspiring display of support for the advancement of education. The event, hosted by Dr. Tina Pierce and Brandon Simmons, both esteemed members of the Columbus Board of Education, marked a significant moment for local educational reform. Held at the Flavor 91 Burger Bistro from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on March 7, 2024, the fundraiser called on guests to be part of the transformative journey envisioned by these two educational leaders.
Dr. Pierce, with heartfelt gratitude, greeted the attendees and stressed the importance of the groundbreaking reforms the Board is committed to. She spoke of the vast task ahead, with changes designed to impact the community positively for seven generations. In the face of potential resistance, she emphasized the need for continued support in both presence and funds, to nurture and protect the educational interests of the community’s children.
Mr. Simmons then took the stage, proudly sharing news of his recent election as the Chairman of the Community Engagement Committee of the Columbus Board of Education. He paid tribute to Dr. Pierce, his mentor for many years, expressing his honor in now standing alongside her as a colleague on the Board. The partnership between Dr. Pierce and Mr. Simmons underscores the unity and dedication necessary to drive these important educational reforms.
As the evening progressed, providing a soulful backdrop to the evening was The Mill Street Blues, an acoustic blues trio, who infused the night with music that perfectly complemented the message of social justice and the enduring right to education.
One of the members of the band, Brian Peters, the father of Amber Evans, a community activist tragically lost in 2019 shared a few words in support of the cause. Mr. Peters highlighted the alignment of the cause with his daughter’s passions, adding a deeply personal touch to the call for donations. In honor of Amber’s memory, he stood to reinforce the importance of supporting the transformative educational endeavors spearheaded by Dr. Pierce and Mr. Simmons.
The fundraiser not only served as a catalyst for change but also as a celebration of the collaborative spirit within the Board and the community. Contributions were welcomed at various levels, reflective of the collective spirit Dr. Pierce and Mr. Simmons have rallied for the cause: Champion at $2500, Host at $500, Sponsor at $250, and Friend at $50.
With Dr. Pierce’s immediate family present, the event was imbued with a familial warmth that added to the evening’s unity. The blend of heartfelt speeches, soulful music, and shared aspirations highlighted the profound significance of the community’s role in supporting and nurturing the educational landscape in Columbus.
As the night came to a close, it was evident that it was time well spent. It was an evening of celebration, remembrance, and a steadfast commitment to a noble cause—the education and future of our cherished children. The event became an emblem of collaboration, mentorship, and the power of coming together for a common purpose, leaving attendees with a sense of collective resolve and the joy of having contributed to a significant and lasting endeavor.