Michael Johnson to Receive TCC Vision Honor
MENU TASTING: Enjoying the culinary delights at the Aug. 4 menu tasting for the TCC Vision in Education Leadership Dinner are, seated from left, Foundation Dinner Chair Jim Cameron, Amanda Hollon of Williams and Honorary Dinner Chair Gary Paxton. Standing from left, Lauren Brookey of TCC, Chef Anthony Card of the Crowne Plaza and Dr. Tom McKeon, president of TCC.
GTR Newspapers photo
Michael Johnson was barely in Tulsa for a few months eight years ago when he was called on to assist with the search for a new superintendent for Tulsa Public Schools. This was the beginning of his ongoing work to serve education in Tulsa. His efforts will be acknowledged on Thursday, Sept. 21 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel when the Tulsa Community College Foundation holds its annual Vision in Education Leadership Dinner to honor Johnson’s service to Tulsa’s educational entities.
The dinner began in 2000 to celebrate TCC’s 30th anniversary. Funds raised by the dinner are used to support students, faculty and staff through scholarships and education programs. This year’s goal is $155,000. The Honorary Dinner Chair is Gary Paxton, CEO of DTAG and the Foundation Dinner Chair is Jim Cameron, CEO of Cameron Glass, Inc.
“The response this year from community sponsors has been truly gratifying. We have already surpassed $100,000 in sponsorships. As a member of the foundation, I see first hand the opportunities we create through private support and it is gratifying to see the community respond to the needs of students who are working toward a college degree,” said Cameron.
Johnson has been instrumental in shaping the path of public education in Tulsa since he came to the community eight years ago to join Williams. He played a key role in the formation of the TPS Foundation, served as a trustee for the TCC Foundation, and is currently chair of the Oklahoma State University-Tulsa Board of Trustees. He and his wife Libby have been active in the Jenks Public School Foundation as well.
TCC Foundation members and staff on the planning committee include: Paul Cornell, Spirit Bank; Joan Parkhurst, Paragon Films; Mary Shaw, community volunteer; Henry Primeaux III, Primeaux KIA; and Lauren Brookey, Bob Beard, Jenna Grant and Susie Brown of TCC.
Leading sponsors for this year’s dinner include Bank of Oklahoma and ONEOK, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, Saint Francis Health System and Conner & Winters. Williams is a presenting sponsor.
Sponsorship levels are leadership level, $10,000; excellence level, $5,000; achievement level, $2,500; dedication level, $1,500 and individual patrons, $500. Tickets are available for $150 each. Leadership level sponsors receive premier seating for 16, two premier season tickets to the TCC Signature Symphony, and a commemorative item.
Organizations and individuals wishing to attend the event to honor Johnson can call 595-7977 or e-mail jgrant@tulsacc.edu.
Updated 08-24-2006
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