ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) -Yesterday the Black Cultural Council of Odessa hosted the 26th annual Evening with the Stars scholarship banquet.
The event brought together community members and leaders to honor the achievements of African American high school seniors.
A special guest attended the event to inspire the students and the community.
“Understand that as we get ready to send them out of these communities to colleges or wherever they are going. We want to send them right.” said Former NFL Player Michael Irvin.
More than 10 students from Odessa were recognized yesterday for their academic achievements, leadership, and helping the community.
A few students were awarded scholarships for their contributions.
“To help us chase our dream and the dreams we have set early for ourselves and making sure we overcome obstacles and knowing we can achieve that we set our mind to,” said Permian High School Student Ry’ale Moses.
The student-athletes spoke about what it means to be recognized within their community.
“It is important to show that black people can be successful, and we will be successful,” said Permian High School student Xemorhia Watkins.
“I think is something great because first as Americans we don’t get much recognition for the things we do and is nice to know we have something like this going on in the community that we live in,” said Ry’ale Moses.
The Black Cultural Council of Odessa wants to honor the students as future leaders.
“We need to invest in the future. We see what the present holds and know that in the future. There is no future.” said Michael Irvin.
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