The Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success fundraiser

I didn't know anything about The Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success when I visited the summer program last year. It was near the end of the summer program's six week session. I talked with several are high school students about the experience. Each one had something positive to say about the program and how the lessons they learned in the classroom will impact their future.

And that's the point.

The Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success was founded in 1989 to fill a void in African-American and multiethnic/racial students' education. For many of the students, the program is the first time they are in a classroom with people of similar backgrounds. Their instructors are African-American. The academics are infused with their cultural heritage. The program gives the foundation students need for future success.

The Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success will honor Pearl Gill, president of Ascott Transcription Service, Inc., during its fourth annual tribute and fundraising event on Feb. 25.

The ceremony will be held from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the African American Museum of Iowa, 55 12th Avenue SE. It includes a silent auction, dinner and program.

Tickets are $35 for adults; $25 for students and seniors. Seating is limited and reservation must be made by Feb. 24. Funds from the event will allow high school students to participate in the program.

For more information, or to reserve tickets, call 364-2063.