Dolores Silas served a long and distinguished career as an educator and public administrator. She began her teaching career at Delong Elementary School, after which she became principal, making her the first Black woman to serve as an administrator in Tacoma Public Schools. She continued her trailblazing by becoming the first Black woman to serve […]
Hidden Hero: LaMar Hudson
LaMar Hudson is a College and Career Specialist at Clover Park High School and native of the eastside of Tacoma. His work in service of Clover Park High School provides him the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful team of caring faculty and staff who, just like himself, are passionate about educating, supporting, encouraging and […]
CPSD Hidden Hero: Kenzie Jones
Kenzie Jones has been an advocate for community change, progress and justice since the age of 14. They are currently a student at Central Washington University and a member of the Youth Educational Board. Kenzie is passionate about social justice issues, the Black Lives Matter movement and efforts to bring institutional reform to schools and […]
CPSD Hidden Hero: Edwin Imbuga
Edwin Imbuga, senior at Lakes High School, is proud of his Kenyan heritage and culture. When he is not in the classroom or taking after-school classes to enhance his academic performance, you can find Edwin sharing a kind word with a camera in hand. He is passionate about videography and photography, encouraging his friends and […]
Hidden Hero: Moe’Neyah Holland
As the executive director of Teens in Tacoma, Moe’Neyah Holland strives to improve her community by highlighting the artistic potential of Tacoma’s teenagers. She attended Curtis High School and now studies art history at the University of Washington in Seattle. Her overarching goal is to change museum curation methods through a focus on Black artists, […]
Hidden Hero: William Key
Born and raised in Charlotte, N.C., Will Key is a first grade teacher at Lake Louise Elementary School. As an educator, He is passionate about being a catalyst for students, stimulating curiosity and inspiring their learning. Will is steadfast in his belief that all students have the capacity to learn and succeed and demonstrates that […]
Hidden Hero: Thomas Dixon
Thomas Dixon first came to Tacoma while serving as an airman at McChord Air Force Base. He became the first director of the Hilltop Multi-Service Center in 1996 before taking a role as the inaugural executive director of Tacoma’s new affiliate National Urban League. Thomas served in this position for 34 years, working diligently for […]
Hidden Hero: Awjaney Markholt
Awjahney Markholt is a senior at Lakes High School, participating in running start at Pierce College and a Lakewood native. She is a natural leader, and her passion for leadership comes alive in the Lakes community where she participates in leadership class and promotes excellence in diversity as a member of the school’s Black Student […]
Hidden Hero: Rosa Franklin
Former Washington State Senator Rosa Franklin served the 29th Legislative District, representing South Tacoma, Parkland, Manitou and parts of Lakewood and University Place. Rosa served one term in the House of Representatives and 18 years in the senate, serving many years as the president pro tempore. With 42 years of nursing experience, Senator Franklin’s area […]