HISTORY OF THE RICHLAND ONE HALL OF FAME

HISTORY OF THE RICHLAND ONE HALL OF FAME

Richland County School District One's extensive and impressive list of distinguished graduates includes educators, scientists, doctors, lawyers, civil rights pioneers, community leaders, business executives, artists and others who have made significant contributions to the district, their communities, their professions and society as a whole.

Former Richland One Superintendent Dr. Ronald L. Epps, who came to the district in 1999 from Rockford, Illinois, was astounded by the number of prominent persons who were graduates of Richland One schools, among them an astronaut (Maj. General Charles F. Bolden, Jr.), a Miss America (Kimberly Aiken Cockerham) and a Nobel Prize-winning chemist (Dr. Kary B. Mullis). Dr. Epps' idea was to create a district Hall of Fame to recognize and honor them. That vision was embraced and unanimously approved by the Board of School Commissioners. Planning began immediately to make the Richland One Hall of Fame a reality.

Around the same time, the City of Columbia began pursuing an extension of a TIF (tax-increment financing district) for the Congaree Vista area downtown to generate $25 million to fund a trio of high-profile building projects ? the Three Rivers Greenway, EdVenture children's museum and the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. The City had Richland County's approval, but a new state law also required the City to have the school district's consent. The Vista TIF would mean that property tax dollars from new development in the Vista that normally would go to the school district would be deferred for a 10year period.

After months of negotiations, in a historic vote on January 11, 2001, the Richland One Board of School Commissioners unanimously gave its approval of the TIF, making it the first school board in South Carolina to approve a TIF in an effort to help spur local economic development and revitalization. In an interview with The State newspaper, then-Board Chairman Vince Ford called the Board's action "an investment in our district," with an eye toward the larger tax base that would be created in the long run. As part of the TIF agreement, Richland One students would be admitted free to EdVenture and the district would receive eight days' free usage of the Carolina Coliseum each year for graduations and other events. A permanent space in the new Convention Center also would be designated for the Richland One Hall of Fame. The Convention Center opened in September 2004 and the district held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Richland One Hall of Fame Room on September 21.

The Board of School Commissioners appointed an 11-member Hall of Fame Selection Committee whose members

would review the nominations submitted for the Hall of Fame each year and recommend a slate of inductees to the Board for its approval. The original members of the committee were: Bob Bockman (committee chairman); Mrs. Kathy Garrick; Mrs. Helen Jones; Mr. Jim Leventis; Mrs. Myrtle Gordon; Ms. Marlene McClerklin; Mr. Sam McGregor; Dr. Warner Montgomery; Dr. Lonnie Randolph; Dr. Carlos Smith; and Dr. Harold Vaughan.

Before the first nominations could be taken, the Selection Committee was charged by the Board to work with district staff to develop the Hall of Fame eligibility criteria and nomination process. Under the established criteria, persons nominated for the Hall of Fame could be district alumni or persons who did not attend Richland One schools, but the majority of each year's inductees would be Richland One alumni. Nominees could be living or deceased. Up to, but no more than, 10 persons would be inducted each year.

The Selection Committee reviewed the 37 nominations that were submitted and recommended to the Board that eight persons comprise the inaugural Hall of Fame induction class. The committee's recommendation was unanimously approved by the Board. The 2004 Hall of Fame laureates were: Maj. General (Ret.) Charles F. Bolden, Jr.; Mr. Henry J. Cauthen; Mrs. Kimberly Aiken Cockerham; the Rev. Joseph A. Darby; Mr. Harris E. DeLoach, Jr.; Mr. Cornell Alvin Johnson (posthumously); Dr. Kary B. Mullis; and Dr. John R. Stevenson. The first induction ceremony gala was held on November 13, 2004 at the Convention Center. Lining the walls of the Richland One Hall of Fame Room are framed portraits of the 57 men and women who have been inducted into the

Hall of Fame since its inception. The room is used as a meeting space by district groups and non-district groups. Glass cases flanking the entrance to the Hall of Fame Room showcase artifacts and memorabilia chronicling the district's history, including items donated by Hall of Fame inductees.

In 2014, the district celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Richland One Hall of Fame. The members of each induction class exemplify the qualities and characteristics of the many men and women throughout the district's history who have contributed to Richland One's proud tradition and legacy of excellence. The Richland One Hall of Fame provides a formal way for the district to tell their stories and acknowledge their achievements and contributions, while also educating and inspiring students today and generations to come.

For more information about the Richland One Hall of Fame, please visit the district's website () and click on the Hall of Fame link, or call the Richland One Office of Communications at (803) 231-7504.

Aaron Bishop Board Chairman

Percy A. Mack, Ph.D. Superintendent

Welcome Message

March 22, 2014

Good evening ladies and gentlemen, It is indeed our pleasure to welcome you to the 10th Annual Richland One

Hall of Fame Induction Gala. We've been known to refer to this event as our version of The Oscars, but it's even better than The Oscars ? all of the honorees are from Richland One!

The gala is an extra-special occasion this year because we are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Richland One Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was established in 2004 to recognize alumni of Richland One schools and other persons who have made significant contributions to the district, their communities, their professions and society as a whole. Induction into the Richland One Hall of Fame is the highest honor awarded by the Richland One Board of School Commissioners.

While we honor the newest members of the Richland One Hall of Fame, we also celebrate Richland County School District One's proud tradition of excellence. This year's inductees ? Heyward Bannister, Dr. Thaddeus J. Bell, Shirley A. Davis (posthumously), Naomi H. Dreher, Frannie Heizer, Bette Jamison, Dr. Evaretta S. Rutherford (posthumously), Dr. Harry B. Rutherford (posthumously), Catherine Davis Thomas (posthumously) and Archie P. Williams, Jr. (posthumously) ? exemplify the qualities and characteristics of the many men and women throughout the district's history who have contributed to that legacy.

Appropriately, our theme tonight is "A Legendary Occasion." The members of the Richland One Hall of Fame are legends and we want to make sure that their stories are told and that their achievements and contributions are acknowledged. We are pleased to have several of the persons who have been inducted over the past 10 years in attendance at tonight's gala as we celebrate this significant milestone in the history of the Richland One Hall of Fame.

We look forward to a wonderful program which will include musical performances by two talented Richland One alumni ? featured vocalist Connie James, a graduate of Columbia High School, and saxophonist Dante' Lewis, a graduate of Eau Claire High School. Any proceeds from tonight's gala will benefit our Academic All-Stars and Classroom Innovation Teacher Grants programs.

On behalf of the Board of School Commissioners and the district's administrative team, thank you for your continued support of Richland One and we hope you enjoy your evening.

Sincerely,

Aaron Bishop

Chairman Richland One Board of School Commissioners

Percy A. Mack, Ph.D.

Superintendent Richland County School District One

ORDER OF THE PROGRAM

Musical Prelude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saxophonist Dante' Lewis' Band

Opening Processional . . . . . . . . Richland One Hall of Fame Members (2004-2012 Induction Classes) 2013 Richland One Hall of Fame Induction Class

Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mrs. Judi Gatson Anchor, WIS News 10 and Host, "N Touch," Kiss 103.1 FM Mistress of Ceremonies

Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Aaron Bishop Chairman, Richland One Board of School Commissioners

Celebrating 10 Years: A Video Retrospective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Produced by Mrs. Chrystal Burgess Richland One TV

Reflections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Ronald L. Epps Richland One Hall of Fame Member (2009 Induction Class) and Former Richland One Superintendent

Invocation and Blessing of the Meal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reverend Dr. Jamey O. Graham, Sr. Pastor, Saint John Baptist Church ? Columbia, South Carolina

? Dinner ?

Baby Caesar Salad with Roasted Peppers, Garlic Crouton and Shaved Parmesan with Ranch and Traditional Caesar Dressings

Apple, Arugula and Fontina-Stuffed Chicken Breast with Calvatos Demi Glace, Paired with Fennel-Dusted Sliced Pork Loin with Apple Chutney, Accompanied by

Gruyere Gratin Potatoes and Garlic-Roasted Asparagus Assorted Fresh-Baked Rolls with Butter and Cinnamon Butter

Triple Chocolate Mousse or Lemon Mousse Cake Iced Tea, Water and Coffee

Introduction of "Legends in the Making" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mrs. Jeanette Arvay Beck Dreher High School Theatre Arts Teacher

2013-2014 Richland One Teacher of the Year

Musical Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Connie James Featured Vocalist

HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY

The Occasion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Bob Bockman Chairman, Richland One Hall of Fame Selection Committee

HONOREES

Mr. Heyward Bannister Hopkins High School Class of 1969

Thaddeus J. Bell, M.D. C.A. Johnson High School Class of 1962

Mrs. Shirley A. Davis (posthumously) Hopkins High School Class of 1966 Member, Richland One Board of School Commissioners, 1992-2000

Mrs. Naomi H. Dreher Booker T. Washington High School Class of 1939

Ms. Francenia "Frannie" B. Heizer Dreher High School Class of 1972

Ms. Bette Jamison A.C. Flora High School Class of 1969

Dr. Evaretta S. Rutherford (posthumously) Booker T. Washington High School Teacher

Dr. Harry B. Rutherford (posthumously) Booker T. Washington High School Class of 1928

Mrs. Catherine B. Davis Thomas (posthumously) Teacher ? C.A. Johnson, A.C. Flora and Lower Richland High Schools

Mr. Archie P. Williams, Jr. (posthumously) Booker T. Washington High School Class of 1932

Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Percy Mack Richland One Superintendent

Musical Tribute to Hall of Fame Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Connie James

Closing Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mrs. Judi Gatson

? DANCE IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE PROGRAM ?

Music by "World-Famous" Johnny Green of KISS 103.1 FM

HEYWARD BANNISTER

On his unlikely journey from picking cotton in rural South Carolina to working for the president of the United States, Heyward Bannister developed a deep understanding of the disparities that exist across America ? and a passion for leveling the playing field.

As a youth, Heyward witnessed the unfair distribution of resources, inadequate educational and job opportunities, and lack of political representation prevalent in his community. He was motivated to develop and use his organizational and management skills in business, civic and political arenas to challenge the status quo, with a focus on inclusion and equitable distribution of community resources to mobilize and empower underserved populations. His commitment to service is consistent with his belief in Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s quote: "An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."

Born in 1952 in Gadsden, South Carolina, Heyward is the third of nine children born to James and Mary Smith Bannister. He attended Gadsden Elementary and graduated from Hopkins High School in 1969. Educators, community leaders and family members nurtured his academic performance as well as his desire to be active in his school and community. While in high school, he was student body president, a member of a gospel quartet and an active member of the Youth Chapter of the NAACP.

Heyward worked three jobs simultaneously prior to enrolling at the University of South Carolina, where he earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees. While attending graduate school, he worked as a correctional officer and later as a caseworker for the S.C. Department of Corrections. In 1984, he joined Blackwater and Associates, Inc., where he obtained greater knowledge in the areas of research, public relations and political consulting. In 1986, he became co-founder of Sunrise Enterprises of Columbia, Inc., which was the first African-American-owned public relations firm in South Carolina.

In 1992, he became owner of BANCO/Bannister Company, a public relations, marketing and political consulting firm. He served as state director for the Clinton/ Gore Campaign and was later appointed as White House Liaison for the Department of Veteran Affairs in the Clinton Administration. In 1999, he returned to South Carolina as director of the South Carolina Community Business Center for Fannie Mae, a Fortune 500 corporation designed to remove barriers to home ownership.

After retiring from Fannie Mae in 2007, Heyward resurrected the BANCO/Bannister Company. He has collaborated with and provided consulting services to over 250 grassroots awareness and political campaigns that transformed policies and reformed the political landscape, including Project ADAM, an anti-drug movement that mobilized churches to address drug abuse; "6-2-1" and "4-2-1" campaigns, which eliminated atlarge voting in the City of Columbia; the Transportation Penny campaign designed to improve roads and public transportation in Richland County; and the Richland Library bond referendum to improve libraries. In his role as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) board member, he battled unrelentingly for abused and neglected children in Richland County. He also has managed or provided consulting services for major local and national political campaigns.

A founding member of the Black Alumni Council of the Greater USC Alumni Association, he was selected to the Columbia Housing Authority's Wall of Fame and the S.C. Black Hall of Fame. He is married to Shirley Mills and is a member of St. Mark Baptist Church in Gadsden. His can-do attitude and passion for public and community service are as contagious as his laugh. Throughout his career, Heyward has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life for the underserved and to live up to his high school motto, "to make the best better."

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