Six New Inductees Will Join Wake County Public Schools Hall of Fame at WakeEd’s Annual Stars of Education Gala on November 5th
RALEIGH, N.C. — WakeEd Partnership (WakeEd), a business-backed nonprofit organization committed to supporting teachers and students in Wake County Public Schools, today announced this year’s honorees for its 12th annual Stars of Education Gala, presented this year by Martin Marietta. The event will be held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the Raleigh Convention Center.
Vernon Malone Friend of Education Award
WakeEd Partnership is honoring NC State Chancellor Emeritus Randy Woodson with this year’s Vernon Malone Friend of Education Award. Woodson, who retired earlier this year, is being honored for leading the university through a period of extraordinary growth and achievement while being a steadfast champion for public education. Since 1990, this award has been presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to public education and shares the qualities of the late Senator Vernon Malone, who advocated tirelessly for every child to have access to exceptional educational opportunities.
“Dr. Randy Woodson has been an extraordinary partner and advocate for public education.” said Keith Poston, President, WakeEd Partnership. “His leadership at NC State extended far beyond the university’s campus, strengthening vital connections with Wake County Public Schools and investing in the future of K–12 students and teachers. WakeEd Partnership is proud to honor him with the Vernon Malone Friend of Education Award for his unwavering commitment to collaboration, innovation, and educational opportunity for all.”
Dr. William “Randy” Woodson served as the 14th Chancellor of NC State University from 2010 to 2025, leading the university through a period of remarkable growth and national recognition. Under his leadership, NC State doubled undergraduate applications, completed a $2 billion fundraising campaign, and solidified its place among the nation’s top public universities. A nationally respected plant scientist and higher education leader, Dr. Woodson prioritized partnerships that extended NC State’s impact across North Carolina.
A steadfast champion for public education, Dr. Woodson worked closely with the Wake County Public School System to advance educator preparation, STEM learning, and student success. His support for programs like the Wake Green Schools Partnership and North Carolina Science Olympiad reflects a deep commitment to K–12 collaboration.
Robert E. Bridges Lifetime Achievement Award
WakeEd Partnership is proud to honor Dr. Alice Garrett with the Robert E. Bridges Lifetime Achievement Award. This distinguished award is not presented annually, but reserved for individuals whose careers reflect extraordinary, lasting contributions to public education. It is named in memory of Dr. Robert E. Bridges, former Superintendent of the Wake County Public School System and a lifelong advocate for educational excellence.
“Dr. Alice Garrett has dedicated her life to ensuring that every child—regardless of background or circumstance—has access to a high-quality education,” said Poston. “Her unwavering commitment to equity, excellence, and mentorship has shaped generations of students and educators across North Carolina. We are proud to honor her extraordinary legacy with the Robert E. Bridges Lifetime Achievement Award.”
Dr. Alice J. Garrett is a retired educator whose remarkable 45-year career in public education has left a lasting impact across North Carolina. She served in nearly every role in the school system—from classroom teacher and principal to Chief Consultant and Section Chief at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). At NCDPI, she led efforts to improve low-performing schools and championed equitable access to education for all students.
Dr. Garrett’s lifetime of service has earned her recognition from the U.S. Congress and the NAACP, among many others. In retirement, she continues to lead through civic and faith-based roles, including as president of the Flood Group.
Wake County Public School System Hall of Fame
At the Stars of Education Gala, six remarkable honorees will join the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) Hall of Fame. Since 2013, the Hall of Fame has recognized those who have made a local impact in the categories of Arts, Athletics, Business, Community Service, Education, and Entrepreneurship. The Class of 2025 inductees are:
Arts – Byron “Bo” Reece
A longtime arts educator and advocate, Bo Reece served as Coordinating Teacher of Arts Education for WCPSS, supporting more than 650 arts educators across the district. He continues to champion arts integration through his work with the United Arts Council and A+ Schools of North Carolina.
Athletics – Andy Fowler
Coach Andy Fowler led Sanderson High School’s tennis teams for over two decades, guiding them to state and regional titles. A devoted educator and school leader, she also directed the NCHSAA 4A tennis championships for 34 years and remains a beloved figure in Wake County athletics.
Business – Sepi Saidi (posthumous)
Founder and CEO of SEPI Engineering & Construction, Sepi Saidi built one of the region’s top civil engineering firms while championing diversity in STEM. A civic leader and former WakeEd board member, she leaves a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and community impact.
Community Service – Jon Powell
As director of Campbell Law School’s Restorative Justice Clinic, Jon Powell has pioneered restorative practices in schools, courts, and prisons. His work has shaped statewide policy and given victims and offenders a voice in the justice process.
Education – Jacqueline “Jackie” Ellis
Jackie Ellis retired as Chief of Schools for WCPSS after a distinguished career as a teacher, principal, and senior district leader. She remains deeply involved in educator development and continues to mentor school leaders across North Carolina.
Entrepreneurship – Venus Liles
Venus Liles is the founder of Liles Law, one of the nation’s only female-owned, B-Corp certified business law firm. A former SAS attorney and Duke alumna, she empowers entrepreneurs through innovative legal services and community mentorship.
Full bios and photos of each honoree can be found on our web site at www.wakeed.org/stars.
“This year’s inductees have each shaped our community in powerful and lasting ways—from classrooms and courtrooms to boardrooms and beyond,” said Keith Poston, President of WakeEd Partnership. “We are honored to celebrate their incredible contributions by welcoming them into the Wake County Public Schools Hall of Fame.”
WakeEd’s Star Among Us Educator Award and Emerging Star Student Award will be announced later this summer.
Individual tickets for the event are $150 and can be purchased here. Sponsorship opportunities are also available now. Visit WakeEd’s website for more information: www.WakeEd.org/Stars or download PDF here.
About WakeEd Partnership
WakeEd Partnership (WakeEd) is a leading independent nonprofit backed by business and community leaders to support the teachers, students, and families of Wake County Public Schools. Since 1983, WakeEd has been committed to improving public education and advocating for excellent educational opportunities for all students. For more information, please visit www.wakeed.org.