Mae C. Jemison High School held a special ceremony today to name its library in memory of Dr. James I. Dawson. Dr. Dawson was a longtime school board member who is remembered as a staunch champion of children and equality.
Special guests at the ceremony included Jemison High School Principal Dr. Demetris Leverette, HCS Superintendent Ms. Christie Finley, HCS Board Member Michelle Watkins, and Ms. Angela Wilkins, Dr. James I. Dawson’s granddaughter.
Ms. Wilkins remarked, “The renaming of the Mae Jemison High School Media Center in his honor will allow his legacy to live on for years to come.”
The Jemison High JROTC were also on hand to present the colors and the national anthem was sung by JHS student Mr. Jaquan Blackburn.
Board Member Michelle Watkins spoke about the Dawson family at the ceremony, saying that “they were the most kind and giving family… and they gave a lot to their community.”
Dr. Dawson passed away in 2009. He served on the Huntsville City Board of Education from 1988-2008.