Harford County Education Foundation proudly hosted its annual Excellence in Education Showcase & Awards Breakfast, marking 20 years of dedicated service to the children and educators of Harford County Public Schools. This milestone event brought together educators, community leaders, and supporters to honor remarkable achievements in education while celebrating the education foundation’s ongoing commitment to student success.
Debora Gavin Merlock, founder and president of Harford County Education Foundation, reflected on the education foundation’s two-decade journey, stating, “What began as a family grassroots effort to provide basic school supplies has grown into a community-wide movement to ensure that every child in Harford County has the opportunity to succeed. We have faced challenges, but with the support of our partners, we’ve seen the incredible difference we can make when we work together. Today, we not only celebrate 20 years of service, but we also reaffirm our commitment to inspiring students, empowering teachers, and removing barriers to learning for generations to come.”
Attendees were entertained by performances from the Havre de Grace Jazz Band, led by band instructor Josh Dill, and the Edgewood High School Dance Team, led by dance instructor Abbie Bennett. Attendees also enjoyed creative placemats designed by 3rd grade students from George D. Lisby Elementary School at Hillsdale and Youth’s Benefit Elementary School, adding a delightful artistic touch to the morning.
Dr. Sean Bulson, Superintendent of Harford County Public Schools, expressed gratitude for the education foundation’s ongoing impact, stating, “Thanks to the unwavering support of Harford County Education Foundation, we are transforming the educational experience for our students. Their commitment to innovation and equity empowers us to create enriching learning environments that inspire every child to reach their fullest potential.”
A standout feature of the event was the Showcase of Knowledge, a student-led expo where attendees had the opportunity to interact with students from Harford County Public Schools magnet programs. Representing 17 diverse magnet and signature programs, the expo showcased impressive projects in areas such as technology, engineering, environmental science, and agriculture. Guests engaged in hands-on demonstrations, gaining valuable insights into the innovative learning opportunities these specialized programs offer.
In a significant moment, proclamations and citations were presented to Harford County Education Foundation by Harford County Executive Bob Cassilly, Harford County Council President Pat Vincenti, and Harford County Councilman Dion Guthrie honoring 20 years of unwavering commitment to improving educational outcomes for Harford County children.
The event culminated with the presentation of the Harford County Education Foundation’s Excellence of Education Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to education in Harford County Public Schools.
2024 Excellence of Education Award Winners:
- Mark Wolkow, Lifetime Achievement Award: Honored for his dedicated advocacy for Harford’s students.
- Dondre Lawson, Outstanding Achievement Award: Recognized for establishing Defense Interns, an apprenticeship initiative connecting and mentoring students entering STEM careers.
- Rose Martino, Principal Achievement Award: Principal of Roye-Williams Elementary School, commended for her outstanding leadership and steadfast commitment to student success.
- Freedom Federal Credit Union, Business Achievement Award: For their commitment to the Patriot Program in Harford County public elementary schools.
The Excellence in Education Showcase & Awards Breakfast was made possible through the generous support of the Presenting Sponsor, APGFCU. APGFCU has proudly partnered with Harford County Education Foundation since its beginnings, recognizing early on the education foundation’s vital role in removing barriers to learning and ensuring that every child in Harford County has the opportunity to succeed. Brian Wilcox, Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized this shared mission, stating, “At APGFCU, teaching children smart money habits is a priority. We focus on removing barriers to learning and empowering every child with the opportunity to achieve financial and personal success as they grow. We strive to empower our members to build wealth and are committed to providing the best financial education to our youth, members, and community. As we grow, so does our commitment.”
Major sponsors of the Excellence in Education Showcase & Awards Breakfast include, MidAtlantic Photographic, LLC, Chesapeake Shredding, LLC, Lockheed Martin, Delmarva Power, Harford County Public Library, Harford County Education Association, Edward Jones – Alysson Krchnavy, Bravura Information Technology Systems, Wade Sewell Board of Education – District B, Harford Community College, Harford County Government, Emerald Technical Solutions, Freedom Federal Credit Union, and Oak Contracting, LLC.
Funds raised from the event will support the education foundation’s programs, ensuring that every child has the tools and resources they need to succeed in their educational journey.
About Harford County Education Foundation
For 20 years, Harford County Education Foundation has been dedicated to leveling the playing field and enhancing educational opportunities for students in Harford County Public Schools. The education foundation provides essential resources, support, and programs to ensure every child has access to a high-quality education.
For more information, please visit www.harfordeducation.org or contact Deb Merlock at [email protected].
