Living the Dream.  This was the 2009 theme of the annual Martin Luther King Jr Humanitarian Program held at Campbell on February 19, 2009 in the Wills gym. After an inspiring poetry reading of Maya Angelou’s poem “Human Family” by student Winifred Brice that contained this line,“We are more alike, my friends, than we are unalike,” student Francesca Renfroe read her stirring original poem. The gospel choir under the leadership of Mr. Adrian White sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and “Heaven”. An except from King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech was orated by Juniors Raven Major and Patrick White. Mr. Arnson gave a spirited and emotional rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine” which had students swaying as they sang to the universal words, “Imagine all the people, sharing all the world”. Two dancers, Renee Smith and Iliana Shaw, demonstrated talent as they graced the stage.

Next up, Campbell’s own alumni (Wills 1986) Brian Oliver gave some heartfelt words of advice as he recounted his high school experience as a scholar athlete, his college experience studying architecture at Georgia Tech, and his professional basketball experience in the NBA and professional teams in Europe. Oliver said that he had to make some sacrifices. It would have been easy to fall in line and to be like his friends. “By God’s grace and my faith … I have succeeded.” He spoke about decisions he had to make that were difficult. “Enjoy life but there has to be a balance. Life is not about your accomplishments. It’s about who you are as a person.” He encouraged Campbell students to follow their dreams. According to Oliver, “people who are successful, they followed their passions.” 

On to the awards ceremony where previous honorees were recognized, many of whom attended. For the community awards, a Campbell favorite, Savvy Formalwear was recognized. In addition, Mr. Gedrick Tyler was selected as a Community honoree. According to Coach Gwyn, Mr. Tyler attends every football and basketball game and “bleeds Campbell blue.” Members of the Campbell Spartan football and basketball teams formed a phalanx for Mr. Tyler to go through. As they respectfully bowed on one knee, Mr. Tyler, escorted by his small son, approached the stage.

Two students were named MLK Honorees, Seniors Josh Winkles and Kayla Henson. Faculty members described these two students as principled, helpful, friendly, and all around good people. As for the faculty awards for 2009, Social Worker Ms. Ana Murphy, Biology Teacher Ms. Venecia Stewart, and Mr. Titus Henderson, Special Education Teacher and SADD Sponsor were selected. All three faculty honorees were announced by students. “Ms. Murphy always helps us out, even when we are pregnant or need money.” “Ms. Stewart is excellent. She really knows how to connect with her students.”  “ Mr. Henderson stays after to help students every day.”