If you go
› What: Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy’s Odyssey Awards Luncheon.› When: 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 15; silent auction begins at 10:30 a.m.› Where: Chattanooga Convention Center, 1150 Carter St.› Admission: $65.› Phone: 423-618-5362.› Email: donnacoleman@cglaonline.com.› Website: www.cglaonline.com/odyssey-luncheon-2017.OnlineHear Wintley Phipps tell the story behind the gospel classic “Amazing Grace” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNuQbJst4Lk
Education activist Wintley Phipps will deliver the keynote address for Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy’s eighth annual Odyssey Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, March 15.
Phipps is the founder, president and CEO of the U.S. Dream Academy, a national after-school program focused on breaking the cycle of intergenerational incarceration by giving children the skills and vision necessary to lead productive and fulfilling lives.
But Phipps’ curriculum vitae goes far deeper than a single organization. He also is a pastor, world-renowned vocalist and motivational speaker. He has twice been nominated for Grammy Awards and has won numerous service awards, most notably the Use Your Life honor from the Oprah Winfrey Angel Network and Philanthropist of the Year from the National Center for Black Philanthropy.
As the signature fundraiser for CGLA, Odyssey also offers an opportunity to celebrate student achievement at the college-prep charter school for girls in grades 6-12.
“With more than 700 guests attending, Odyssey is a perfect time to congratulate and recognize young women who are exhibiting the attributes associated with academic and personal success,” said Dr. Elaine Swafford, executive director. “Our Rising Star and Shining Star awards spotlight students who are conscientious and disciplined, creative and insightful, eager and curious.”
Event chairs are Jo Ann Yates, a current board member and longtime supporter of the school, and Kelly and Ted Alling, co-founders of Chattanooga Prep, an all-boys public charter school slated to open in 2018.
“We are ardent supporters of CGLA because Dr. Swafford and the faculty are redefining what is possible in public education,” says Kelly Alling. “CGLA demonstrates that children from all backgrounds can succeed in college and life.”
Money raised from Odyssey supports the school’s daily operation, which includes funding CGLA’s STEAM-centered academic program. STEAM is a 21st-century approach to curriculum in which students explore the connections between science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.
Odyssey will begin with a silent auction at 10:30 a.m., followed by the luncheon and program at 11:30 a.m.