Forteenth Annual Scholarship Awards Dinner
One of the greatest gospel singers in the world composed “If I Can Help Somebody.” Ms. Mahalia Jackson lived her life through dedication, prayer, perseverance, gratitude, and the unwavering decision to always help those in need. If everyone had the mindset of Ms. Jackson, then there would be a lot less confrontation and disputes. Whether it is the selfishness of some or the ignorance of others, some people refuse to lend a helping hand unless it will directly affect them. On the other hand, there are also those who feel they could never contribute enough. Unfortunately, Ms. Jackson passed away in 1972. Today, Dr Harold Afiriyie and the Sarah Woode Foundation possess the same characteristics as Ms. Jackson. The Foundation’s display of determination, service, motivation, and dedication is a priceless act that has and will continue to play major roles in the lives, education, and future of many students.
“No one is useless in this world who
lightens the burden of it to anyone else.”
Charles Dickens
SWF scholars present at the 2007 Awards Dinner
SWF Scholar: Charles Duncan – NY Institute of Technology (Junior)
On Saturday, April 14, 2007 the values of this foundation were displayed at the 14th Annual Awards Dinner. The evening started with a warm welcome by SWF scholar and Nazareth Graduate (’06), Ms, Cynthia Francois. As she delivered her introduction, regards to the foundation, and personal thanks the aura of experience and fulfillment captivated the room. She helped to set the tone for the rest of the dinner when she encouraged the recipients to work towards their dreams and their aspirations. The new scholars will be exposed to such a strong support system within the foundation and amongst their fellow peers. Cynthia reminded them to enjoy high school, learn from all mistakes, but most importantly stay focused.
Community Service Awardee (Posthumously): Mr. Phil Johnson ( collecting
the award are his wife and daughter)
Between each speech the band serenaded the audience with melodious jazz
sounds. Following the welcome by Ms. Francois the master of ceremonies
and Nazareth teacher, Mr. Anthony DeSimone took the floor. Those who know “Mr.
D” know how jovial and enthusiastic he always is at school. This
dinner was no different; “Mr. D” stepped up to the podium each
time and offered a renewed sense of energy, laughter, and happiness.
SWF 2007-2008 Scholarship Awardees: L-R – Leandra Haynes, Chenille Morrison, Ariel Gayle, Ashley Innis, Imani Gary
Next up to the podium was Nazareth’s principal Mr. Doran. As principal for many years Mr. Doran has made Nazareth what it is today. Taking special interest into the success of every student, Mr. Doran has made sure every student is comfortable and adapting well to the Nazareth Community. Followed by Mr. Doran was Dr. Harold Afiriyie. Together, they both helped to inform the audience on what an assest the Sarah Woode Foundation is to Nazareth students and parents.
Next was the moment everyone was waiting for, presentation of awards
and introduction of the new scholars. Leandra Haynes, Imani Gary, Ashley
Innis, and were welcomed with open arms as they joined past recipients
in reciting the Sarah Woode Foundation Pledge.
The program continued with guest speaker Mr. Lawrence Benjamin. Though he wasn’t
listed on the program, he still delivered a resounding piece of advice. Mr. Benjamin,
an Architect and a graduate Nazareth encouraged the past and present scholars
to be proud and represent who they are, where they came from, and where they
are headed. In other words, as young men and women, we all have a responsibility
to ourselves to ourselves to focus on school and family. Benjamin took such a
simple word like ‘representation’ and gave it meaning, substance,
and most of all made it a very relatable concept for everyone in the room.
After such an uplifting speech, it was time for dinner. With such elegant table settings, the idea of dinner was replaying in everyone’s mind. Finally the moment came, and it was great. The menu consisted of a wide array of choices for the cocktail hour. For dinner there was rice, roasted potatoes, pasta, chicken and countless other dishes to choose from. After such a great dinner deserts and beverages were the last thing on anyone’s mind. In addition to a well prepared menu, there were the sounds of jazz band.
As the wonderful evening came to a conclusion, many delivered their vote of thanks. On behalf of my family and I, we would like to once again personally thank Dr. Harold Afiriyie and the Sarah Woode Foundation for everything that they have ever done for myself and the countless other students they have blessed. I wish them the utmost continued success. As a result, I will always be a proud representation of the Sarah Woode Foundation and its values.
Special Educator of the Year Awardee: Mr. Peter Doran
Quotes from New Scholarship Awardees
Imani Gary – Trey Whitfield (8th
Grade)
“One thing I would really like to do though is to create a cure for a disease, whether it is Cancer or HIV”.
Ashley Innis – St. Fortunata School (8th Grade)
"I think a scientist can be anyone who has a natural curiosity about the way things work. It is the drive to discover the truth· that is what makes them scientists."
Leandra Haynes – Ebenezer Prep. School (8th Grade)
“I intend to reach my goal of becoming a forensic scientist and be part of the New York State Police Forensic Investigation Center”.
Ariel Gayle – Nazareth Regional High School (9th Grade)
“I mostly enjoy the Biology part of science. When I get older, I want to enter the medical field to become a Plastic Surgeon”.
Chenille Morrison – Nazareth Regional High School (9th Grade)
“As a future Neurologist, I hope to achieve everything life has to offer me in the science world. Helping those in need, rich or poor, has always been my philosophy. I want my experience in neurology to have a big impact on the lives of people of this world, just like Ben Carson’s experience did”.