It was a night of kudos and recognition in the realm of education Monday night at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre as more than 60 teachers and students were highlighted for their exemplary accomplishments in and out of the classroom.
The 33rd annual, held by the held by the Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce’s Education Committee and sponsored by the Breeze Newspapers, highlighted the importance of committed educators, and assisted the scholastic endeavors of high school seniors’ continuing education.
Students and teachers from the elementary, middle, high school and college level were honored, representing the West Zone of the School District of Lee County, which includes Cape Coral and North Fort Myers. The event welcomed more than 330 students, educators, administrators, and community members for a heartfelt celebration of academic achievement.
“This event is truly unique to our community because it recognizes students at every stage of their educational journey — from elementary through high school,” said Chamber President/CEO Donna Germain. “By honoring children throughout these formative years, the Chamber’s Excellence in Education Awards not only celebrates achievement but also reinforces the importance of consistent encouragement, support, and recognition along the way. The same is true for these remarkable educators that play such a pivotal role in the development of our future leaders.”
The Cape Coral Breeze is a partner of long standing.
“The Breeze understands that education is a collaborative effort between students, educators, parents and the community and we’re proud to be part of this community and do our part to recognize local educational efforts through the Excellence in Education program,” Breeze Newspapers’ Publisher Ray Eckenrode said,
Comedian Sheena Reagan was the event’s guest speaker for the evening. A Cape Coral native, Reagan was recognized as a Student of Excellence from Mariner High school at the 2006 Excellence in Education Awards.
“We always love hearing from our past honorees as they share their journeys since receiving this award,” Germain said. “Sheena was named Florida’s Funniest Female 2018 and is a Leadership Cape Coral 2020 Graduate.”
The Chamber extended its deepest appreciation to all who contributed to the memorable evening, and to the educators and students whose passion and perseverance continue to inspire the community.
“As an organization, we are extremely proud to carry on this 33-year tradition for our community,” Germain said. “The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral has long recognized that our exceptional schools and students are the backbone of a thriving community. By celebrating academic excellence and character, the event reflects the Chamber’s investment in the future workforce, leaders, and change-makers of Cape Coral.
“It’s a chance to spotlight diverse student achievements — academic, civic, and personal — and celebrate how each contributes to a stronger, more united Cape Coral. It also gives us the chance to recognize the dedication of educators and school leaders, acknowledging their efforts in mentoring, inspiring, and preparing the next generation.”
Each of the high school seniors of excellence and technical college honorees were bestowed $500 scholarships, with additional $1,000 scholarships given to a separate group of high school students.
A special scholarship was presented to a Junior Leadership student in the name of Cindy Gallagher, a program founder who passed away from cancer in 2018. Nayla Yero Satorre of Ida S. Baker High School was this year’s recipient. She was a graduate of the Junior Leadership Class of 2024.
“Her essay expressed how the Junior Leadership Experience had a positive impact on her commitment to serve her community,” Germain said.
To reach CJ HADDAD, please email cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com
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