Greater Tulsa African American Affairs Commission Black Educator Award Event (October 27, 2026)

This was the third annual Dr. Laverne Ford Wimberly Black Educator Awards ceremony, organized by the Greater Tulsa African American Affairs Commission (GTAC). The event celebrated Black educators in Tulsa, featuring remarks from city and school district leaders, and the presentation of five awards. The meeting took place in the evening.

Opening Remarks by Brian Humphrey (GTAC Chair)

• Humphrey welcomed attendees, recognized the education committee for organizing the event, and explained the commission's mission focused on education. He honored Dr. Laverne Ford Wimberly for allowing use of her name.

Mayor Monroe Nichols' Address

• Mayor Nichols apologized that he might leave early to attend a vigil for domestic violence survivors and victims. He praised educators as the foundation of the city's success, noting their roles beyond teaching (therapist, mentor, housing coordinator). He announced the city's goal through the Office of Children, Youth and Families: to put 15,000 additional Tulsa children on a path to economic mobility, supported by a children's cabinet and action alliances. He acknowledged the additional challenges faced by educators of color.

Councilor Vanessa Hall Harper's Address

• Councilor Hall Harper recounted the history of GTAC: community advocacy began in 2014, and the commission was created by city ordinance in 2017. She credited Margaret Love for fighting for its creation. She distinguished between "instructors" and "educators," emphasizing the pedagogy expertise of teachers.

Superintendent Dr. Ebony Johnson's Remarks

• Dr. Johnson thanked GTAC for honoring Tulsa Public Schools (TPS) educators. She noted that TPS serves over 31,000 African American students. She shared a personal story about Dr. Wimberly supporting her when she worked at a steakhouse, and expressed gratitude for trailblazers who inspired her. She acknowledged challenges facing TPS (state audits, financial constraints, school closures) but affirmed confidence in the district's future.

Dr. Laverne Ford Wimberly's Remarks

• Dr. Wimberly thanked GTAC and praised educators and administrators for their dedication. She said "educators affect eternity" and encouraged honorees to continue leading with courage and teaching with heart.

Senator Regina Goodwin's Remarks (via late arrival)

• Senator Goodwin, who arrived after leaving another event, thanked educators and recalled the early struggles to establish the commission. She said none of us would be where we are without good teachers.

Award Presentations

• The education committee co-chairs (Mike Kelvon and another commissioner) announced five awards selected from 26 nominations:
  • Outstanding New Educator: O'Neadiza Zaleya (KIPP Tulsa University Prep High School)
  • Difference Maker Award: Derek C. Morton (Excellence Academy)
  • Guiding Light Award: Tracy Manuel (former Tulsa Teacher of the Year, later Oklahoma Teacher of the Year)
  • Excellence in Education Award: Erica Ware (Tulsa Legacy Charter)
  • Trailblazer Award: Dr. Ebony Johnson (Superintendent, Tulsa Public Schools)
• Each honoree received a plaque, a certificate signed by the mayor, and over $100 in gift cards. Several honorees gave brief remarks.

Closing Remarks by Raquel Wilson (GTAC Vice Chair)

• Wilson, a former KIPP teacher, encouraged attendees to honor educators in their lives and invited them to join the GTAC education committee. She announced refreshments catered by India's plate.

Key Outcomes

• Five educators were recognized and received awards.
• Mayor Nichols reiterated the city's goal of 15,000 children on a path to economic mobility.
• GTAC's education committee called for new members to continue honoring and supporting educators.