Foundation Serves 25 Years

Topeka Public Schools Foundation (TPSF) and Topeka Public Schools past and present Board members, along with TPS administrative staff, commemorated TPSF's 25 years of service to the District with a reunion celebration last Sunday evening. Jim Edwards, current Foundation board member, and Melodie Woerman, past Foundation board member served as co-hosts for the event.

Dr. Walt Menninger, Dr. Marvin Edwards and Pamela Johnson-Betts

Past TPS Superintendent Dr. Marvin Edwards, who was the catalyst for the development of the Foundation, spoke to the group. Attendees also heard remarks from TPS alum and former TPS Foundation Board member Sen. Nancy Landon Kassebaum Baker. In addition, the group received remarks of appreciation from TPS Interim Superintendent, Dr. Julie Ford.

The Monday morning Foundation Community Breakfast was also a success. Foundation Executive Director, Pamela Johnson-Betts said, "The community embraced the event as over 175 people attended on a Monday morning, bright and early." She continued, "We appreciate that several businesses sponsored the event and attended along with other state and local officials who showed their support."

Jim Deines, a local business man and 12-year Foundation Board member, was given the Foundation "Patron Award," and Dr. Marvin Edwards was presented the Foundation Founders Award.

Left: WIBW Channel 13 General Manager Jim Ogle announces Patron Award winner, Jim Deines.