Human Relations Commission honors standout students
Photo by Tevin Stinson. Jada Durham, a student at Kernersville Elementary School, accepts her award during the 37th annual Human Relations Student Awards.
By Tevin Stinson
The Chronicle
Eighty-two students from local public and private schools were honored for their willingness to lend a helping hand last week during the 37th annual Human Relations Student Awards.
Since the inaugural celebration in 1980, the city’s human relations commission has celebrated students who exemplify positive human relations in their dealings with others on such issues as anti-bullying, race relations, religion, disabilities, and even cultural differences. While student athletes are often praised for their physical abilities on the field or court, human relations director Wanda Allen-Abraha said it is equally important that we shine a light on the students who are making a difference in the hallways and in the community as well.
“These students are the creme of the crop and we want them to know they have the full support of this community,” Allen-Abraha said.
Superintendent Dr. Beverly Emory said, “It gives me great pleasure to congratulate the students here who represent everything that is good about our world.”
Emory said although we are living in challenging times, if we watch what goes on in hearts, minds, and actions of young people, we have a lot to be grateful for. Mayor Allen Joines, and Mayor Tempore Vivian Burke also congratulated the students for making the city of Winston-Salem a better place for everyone
Before the students made their way across stage to accept their awards to the tune of cheers and applause of their parents, family and friends. District Principal of the Year Brad Craddock encouraged the students to continue to be difference-makers in the community and people who promote change. Craddock, who serves as the principal at Glenn High School, told the students change is the law of life and that it is necessary.
“Change by definition is to make something better or different. We cannot afford not to allow change and we can’t afford to leave anybody behind in the changing process,” Craddock said.
After accepting her award, Jada Durham, a student at Kernersville Elementary School, was all smiles. As she left the stage, Jada vowed to be a standout student at her school.
