Greenville Welcomes New Faces to the Hall of Fame
In a dazzling evening filled with celebration and pride, the Greenville County Schools Hall of Fame recently inducted six remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields including academia, arts, athletics, business, and public service. The gala took place on November 21 at the elegant Greenville Convention Center, bringing together alumni, educators, and community members to honor this year’s deserving inductees.
Empowering Young Minds through Art
First up is Mary Bethencourt, a shining star who graduated from Wade Hampton High School in 1998. Bethencourt is renowned for her work as a child photographer, focusing on empowering children of color. As the co-founder of CreativeSoul Photography in Atlanta, her captivating work has not only earned her a NAACP Image Award but also a prestigious title as a Canon Explorer of Light. Additionally, she’s a New York Times bestselling author for her vibrant books, “Glory” and “Crowned.” Her dedication to celebrating diversity through art truly makes her a role model!
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Next, we have Willie J. Brown, a proud 1955 graduate of Greenville Senior High Academy. Elected as Greenville County Sheriff in 1976, Brown led transformative changes within the department, modernizing its operations. His leadership was recognized nationally as he served as president of the National Sheriffs’ Association and even took on the role of U.S. Marshal for South Carolina in 2002. His recent stint as interim sheriff from 2018 to 2020 solidifies his commitment to the community.
Capturing Imagination through Pages
For those who appreciate the written word, Raúl Miyares is a name to know. A proud 1988 graduate from Hillcrest High School, Miyares is an award-winning picture-book author and illustrator. His enchanting works such as “Float,” “Night Out,” and “Hope at Sea” inspire not just children but readers of all ages. He also lent his artistic talents to the Newbery Honor Medal-winning book, “The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams.” Miyares’ contributions bring stories to life in a way that resonates with hearts everywhere.
Breaking Ground in Oncology
Another inductee making waves in the medical field is Kira Smith, a Southside High School alumna, who graduated in 2002. Smith’s journey has seen her work as a postdoctoral fellow and assistant professor at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. With a focus on prostate cancer research, she’s dedicated her career to developing new treatments in hematology and oncology. Now back in her home state, Smith continues her critical work in oncology and genetics, showcasing the impact of home-grown talent.
A Pillar of Arts Education
A true visionary, Frances Uldrick is a 1946 graduate from Greenville Senior High Academy and the founder of the Greenville Fine Arts Center, as well as serving as the founding president of the South Carolina Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities. Her passion for fine arts in education has left an indelible mark on the community. Uldrick also received notable honors, including the Elizabeth O’Neill Verner Governor’s Award and the Order of the Palmetto, recognizing her unwavering commitment to the arts.
Decades of Educational Excellence
Rounding out the impressive group is Katherine Howard, Ph.D., who has over 30 years of experience in education. Her notable tenure as the associate superintendent for student performance at GCS showcased her dedication to enhancing student outcomes. Howard’s expertise also reached international heights as a member of the board for the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development.
A Night to Remember
As these six individuals join the illustrious ranks of the Greenville County Schools Hall of Fame, it’s clear their remarkable achievements are woven into the very fabric of our community. The gala was not just an event, but a heartfelt celebration of what it means to make a difference. Here’s to the new inductees and the bright futures they continue to inspire!
