Last week the District 218 Education Foundation hosted its 10-year anniversary at Blue Island Beer Company. The event celebrated the work -- the Foundation raises thousands annually for college scholarships and teacher grants -- of its volunteers.
The Foundation also honored several people who gave tirelessly of their time and talent to help the organization grow.
They include Dr. John Byrne, the retired superintendent of District 218 who initiated the launch of the Foundation during his tenure. Dr. Byrne devoted untold hours of his time to get the Foundation off the ground, find people to serve on the Board of Trustees, and help the organization grown.
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The Foundation also honored Oak Lawn resident Kevin Hudson. The current treasurer, Hudson remains the only original Trustee to still serve on the Foundation board. He has given countless hours to the organization and helped it raise thousands for students and staff.
Karen Burmeister, a former member of the District 218 Board of Education, also was recognized. She served as president of the Foundation for years and volunteered her time and talent for the Arts Extravaganza and golf outing.
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Finally, the Foundation honored Larry Garetto. A one-time member of the Board of Trustees, Garetto has donated thousands to the organization through his Beggar's Pizza franchises. He could not attend the anniversary celebration however and thus does not appear in the pictures.
All appear with Ennis Shells, the current president of the Foundation who presented the awards.
