The Tyler ISD Foundation hosted its 2024 Gala, A NIGHT AT BIRDLAND, on Friday, Nov. 22nd at the Willow Brook Country Club. The special celebration brought together more than 185 guests and raised a record-breaking $80,000+ for Tyler ISD teachers and students.
The event, led by Gala Co-Chairs Nancy Wrenn and Kristina Wrenn, a mother-daughter duo, transported guests to a beautiful evening set in the 1950s New York Jazz Club, BIRDLAND, the Jazz Corner of the World, named in honor of legendary jazz musician Charlie "Bird" Parker. All enjoyed the sounds of George "Bird" Faber & His All Stars, a nightclub-inspired menu, signature cocktails, a silent auction, and a trifecta of great fellowship all while supporting the Foundation’s mission.
The Gala celebrated the 34 years of impact and partnership of Tyler ISD and the Tyler ISD Foundation. Debbie Matteucci was honored as the recipient of the 2024 Bonnie & Tab Beall Impact Award for her volunteer service and leadership on the Tyler ISD Foundation board. Rebecca Ballard received the 2024 Dr. Gary Gross Service Award for her many years of commitment to the mission and work of the Foundation. The 2024 Tyler ISD Distinguished Alumni, Smith County Judge Neil Franklin, was also recognized with a standing ovation during the festivities.
The tremendous success of this year’s event would not have been possible without the generous support of Gala Presenting Sponsor, Joyce Buford Donor Advised Fund at East Texas Communities Foundation.
Top event sponsors also included: Fitzpatrick Architects, Jennings Architects, The University of Texas at Tyler, Scarborough Commercial Real Estate, Iglesias Law Firm, Classic Toyota, Cooperative Teachers Credit Union, UT Health East Texas, Austin Bank, Corgan, CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System, Patty and Hub Coleman Family, Sunbelt Equipment Marketing Inc., Bonnie and Tab Beall, Southside Bank, Chick-Fil-A, Dr. Shirley Marks, Tyler Radiology Associates, Hoar Construction, L.A. Fuess Partners, Dr. D.M. Edwards, VeraBank, Oncor, Citizen’s 1st Bank, and EMA Engineering & Consulting.
About Tyler ISD Foundation:
The Tyler Independent School District Foundation is the non-profit, philanthropic partner of Tyler ISD, providing resources to inspire learning, enrich teaching, and enhance opportunities for our students through exemplary programs. We know that Tyler ISD is one of the primary economic mobility engines for the City of Tyler and will continue to be for decades to come, and as such, the Tyler ISD Foundation's commitment to invest in our public school system runs deep. Since its creation in 1990, the Foundation has donated more than $3.8 million to the district. Tyler ISD Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 organization; all donations are tax-deductible.
Photo: Nancy Wrenn and Kristina Wrenn