RICHTON PARK, Ill., July 29, 2026— Dr. Blondean Y. Davis, CEO of Southland College Prep Charter High School and Superintendent of Matteson School District 162, received the Educator of the Year Award from the America's Big Sisters Foundation during its 9th Anniversary Champions for Youth Awards Luncheon on July 26 at Wind Creek Casino in East Hazel Crest, Illinois.
Held during WNBA All-Star Weekend, the annual luncheon celebrated individuals whose leadership, mentorship and service have made a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Hosted by Dr. Tragil Wade-Johnson, founder of the America's Big Sisters Foundation and sister of NBA legend Dwyane Wade, the event brought together educators, business leaders, advocates and community partners to recognize those whose work has strengthened communities through education and opportunity.
Dr. Davis was recognized for more than four decades of leadership in education and her lifelong commitment to expanding opportunities for young people. A nationally recognized educational leader and reformer, she has served as Superintendent of Matteson School District 162 since 2002 and as the founding CEO of Southland College Prep Charter High School since 2010. Throughout her career, she has championed access to higher education by raising millions of dollars for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees of Tougaloo College, a Historically Black College and University in Mississippi.
Under Dr. Davis' leadership, Southland has earned the Illinois State Board of Education's highest designation—Exemplary—six of the past seven years and has achieved 100 percent college acceptance for every graduating class since 2014.
"I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the America's Big Sisters Foundation," said Dr. Davis. "Although my titles have changed over the years, I have always been a teacher at heart. Helping young people discover their potential and achieve their dreams has been life's greatest privilege."
The America's Big Sisters Foundation recognized Dr. Davis for her enduring commitment to educational excellence, youth empowerment and expanding access to higher education. Dr. Davis was one of 13 women honored by the foundation during the luncheon.
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