The honorary co-chairs were Billy Aaron and Henry “Hank” Aaron and Ambassador Andrew Young and Carolyn Young.
The Atlanta Technical College Foundation started this event in 2001. Dr. Alvetta P. Thomas stated, “The Bridge Builder Awards allows us to recognize members of the business community, who through their visionary and creative contributions, greatly enrich the quality of life, opportunities for education, and access to resources. We are pleased to recognize the hard work and dedication of these honorees.”
For 2016, awards went to Shan Cooper, chief Supply Chain and technology officer of WestRock, and former VP and GM at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co.; Devon Franklin, president/CEO of Franklin Entertainment; Peter McMahon, general manager of Hyatt Regency Atlanta; Lisa Smith on behalf of Georgia Power and the President’s Award went to Dr. Eike Jordan, chairman, Board of Trustees of the Halle Foundation. These individuals and corporations demonstrated the highest level of commitment to closing the educational achievement gap.
The 2016 host committee members included Randall Barnes, Erica Qualls Battey, Dennis Boyden, LaSandra Boykins, Ann and Jeff Cramer, John Deushane, Carol and Thomas Dortch, Quinnie Jenkins, Diane Larche, Pat Lottier, Myra Reeves, Brenda Reid, Fabiola Charles Stokes, Geri Thomas, Charmaine Ward, Janis Ware, Myrna White, and Patricia and Michael Young.
The evening started with a reception and silent auction, which included a signed jersey from Cam Newton and Kobe Bryant, dinner followed at the renovated hangar that holds the Delta Flight Museum. The museum offers interactive exhibits with the only full motion sim open to public in the United States. Entertainment was provided by Al Smith featuring Leonard Julien.
For more information on the Atlanta Technical College Foundation, visit www.atlantatech.edu and for Delta Flight Museum hours and tickets, visit www.deltamuseum.org
