Fundraising for the 2008 Crystal Awards Gala has generated $105,000, the highest amount ever raised, according to event co-chairs Patty and Bruce Busmire. The Crystal Awards is sponsored by the Spring Branch Education Foundation and the Houston Chronicle. It was held Feb. 29 at the Westin Oaks Hotel. Six educators from the Gulf Coast region were recognized during the benefit event.
“We are thrilled that this success will mean so much to the 32,000 students in Spring Branch ISD,” co-chair Patty Busmire said. “It was gratifying to have such an overwhelming response from the community. The event was oversold as so many sought to share in the celebration of these incredible women and men who inspire our children.”
Chosen as Crystal Award winners from more than 1,600 nominations submitted were teachers Patty Nilsson of SBISD’s The Guthrie Center; Anne-Marie Zehawi of the Regis School; Dr. Ollie Davis of Houston ISD; Donna Stone and Kathalene Jernigan, both of Clear Creek ISD; and Jane Lamb of Klein ISD.
As Platinum Crystal underwriter, Wal-Mart paid tribute to 52 teachers, which SBISD also honored 39 campus 2007 Teachers of the Year. In addition to the co-chairs, volunteers included Laura and Paul Riddle, auction chairs; Wendy and Ben Moreland, underwriting chairs; and Becky and Mike Robertson, who served as decorating chairs.
Proceeds benefit educational and enrichment programs in SBISD and the Chronicle’s Readers are Leaders program.