“This event is a great way to celebrate my daughter’s legacy,” said Collier. “Anita was not only a good mother, but very committed to education. It’s a great way to continuously honor her memory.”
Mayo, who was hearing-impaired, graduated from the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf, and had plans to attend Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C.
ROSEMARY MORIARTY AND CONSTANCE ANDERSON COLLIER
Gainey’s proclamation mirrored Collier’s sentiments, while noting Collier’s commitment in helping to increase other children’s educational pursuits. Gainey, who represents Pa.’s 24th Legislative District, is also a committed community activist and a product of the Pittsburgh area school system. He graduated from Baltimore’s Morgan State University.
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE—Tim Cox, Sheila Moore, Constance Anderson Collier, Tallulah Anderson and Sabrina Geddie
Rosemary Moriarity, a former principal and top administrator with the Pittsburgh Board of Education, served as the event’s guest speaker with entertainment being provided by the Gary Davis Quintet, featuring vocalists Iris Joy Brown and WAYNE, drummer Dennis Garner and keyboardist Keith Flowers.
A special appearance was made by Las Vegas crooner, DeWayne Anderson, who provided the spiritual spark that generated an emotional stir throughout the venue. In a gospel rendition of Larry Graham’s “Someone Really Loves You,” Anderson, a minister of music who heads a Vegas-based family gospel troupe known as RUAH, drew a standing ovation after his stirring performance.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS—Jacquelyn McDonald and Germaine Watkins.
The black and white-themed, catered affair featured Chef Claudy M. Pierre who served American fare. Photography was provided by Germaine Watkins with event planning by Fantasy Zellars of Bounce Marketing & Events.
ENTERTAINMENT
The event was attended by about 200 patrons, including a variety of Pittsburgh area personalities and individuals from political, civic, academic, religious and societal realms. Collier noted that the event has grown substantially since its inception.
(For donation information, visit www.AMKFundraiser.com. Scholarship donations may also be sent to the Anita P. Mayo & Kids Foundation, P.O. Box 232, 322 Monroeville Mall Blvd., Monroeville, Pa. 15146).
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