2nd annual hosted by Second Founding of America
From staff reports
Eight local citizens and their work supporting the mission of the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park were honored at the second annual Let History Speak Celebration! hosted by the Second Founding of America on Wednesday, April 10 at MacLean Hall on the TCL Mather campus in Beaufort.
Master of Ceremonies for this year’s Celebration! Was Chris Allen, Vice President of Academic Affairs for the TCL Mather Campus. Allen greeted the participants as the audience of 150 was treated to a pre-program Sponsors Reception and a program designed to highlight the accomplishments of eight unsung Lowcountry heroes.
“The event tonight gives an opportunity to honor folks that give selflessly to the Community,” Second Founding of America President/CEO Dan Durbin said.
Honorees were chosen in three main categories: the Explorers of Untold History Scholarship Program, Alliance Volunteers, and the William “Billy” Keyserling Pioneer Award. Receiving the 2024 awards were Margo Middleton, Rials Gault, Antoine Patrick, the Mather School Coastal/Lowcountry Alumni and Associates Chapter, J. Edward Allen, Robin Southard, Grace Cordial, and Elijah Washington.
Here are the awards and a description of each winner:
Dove Award
Presented to Margo Middleton for her shining example of selflessness and dedication to her community. For longer than four decades, she has dedicated her life to volunteering and supporting others, lifting them up through acts of kindness, compassion, and empowerment.
Explorers of Untold History Scholarships
These $1,000 scholarships were awarded to Rials Gault and Antoine Patrick. Gault is a student at Bridges Preparatory Charter School. Patrick is a student at Beaufort High School. This scholarship honors the skills and creativity of Lowcountry students that research and retell the stories of the Reconstruction Era.
Beyond the Horizon Award
This award is a given to an individual or organization that has shown unwavering dedication to promoting unity and harmony in society and serves as a shining example to the community. This year’s recipient is the Mather School Coastal/Lowcountry Alumni and Associates Chapter. Through their actions, words, and deeds, they have demonstrated a profound understanding of the importance of embracing diversity, fostering inclusivity, and working toward a common goal of a more harmonious future for all.
The 200 Hour Volunteer Club
Superintendent of the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park, Laura Wall recognized the park volunteers that volunteered 200 or more hours to the Park Service.
Servant Leadership Award
Receiving the award was J. Edward Allen for practicing leadership that focuses on serving others, putting their needs first, and empowering them to reach their full potential. This leadership style is known as servant leadership, and it is a powerful force for positive change in organizations and communities.
Educator of the Year
Robin Southard was awarded the title of Educator of the Year. She has demonstrated outstanding dedication, passion, and innovation in the field of education. This prestigious award is in recognition of her significant contributions to the academic and personal development of our young people, as well as their commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.
Historian of the Year
Grace Cordial was awarded the Historian of the Year Award by local historians Larry Rowland and Stephen Wise. Cordial has dedicated herself for more than two decades, establishing and curating the Beaufort Collection of Historical Resources at the Beaufort County Library – a source for residents, students, and scholars from far and near.
William “Billy” Keyserling Pioneer Award
Elijah Washington received this distinguished honor. The award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication in driving positive change within the community. It celebrates someone that has taken bold and visionary steps to address challenges, create opportunities, and inspire others to work toward a better future. Recipients of this award are recognized trailblazers who pursued groundbreaking projects, programs, and initiatives that have had a transformative impact on their community.
