President's Message
LAVONIA "BUNKEY" SHIRLEY
To the Mighty! Mighty! KNIGHTS Alumni Body:
Thank you for trusting me to serve as your board president. As the current president, I’ve begun working with Ballou’s principal, Dr. Willie Jackson, and the staff to update our purpose and discuss future directions that focus on loyalty, professional collaboration, mentoring future alumni, and providing personal support to ensure the ongoing success of the Frank W. Ballou Senior High School Alumni Association Inc. My time at BALLOU High School as a student laid the foundation for the key professional and personal achievements in my life. I can honestly say that being active as an alumni volunteer in various roles over the past few years has deepened my appreciation for public higher education overall and the unique opportunities that come with attending BALLOU. My initial role as a representative involved organizing reunions, which eventually led to leadership positions and greater involvement, including serving on the BALLOU Alumni Association Board of Directors. I value these experiences and the wonderful people I've met through them, who share a common understanding of what their time at BALLOU meant to them. I believe the most important lesson I’ve learned as I've grown older is that my experience at BALLOU has profoundly shaped my life. It’s clear that no act of support—whether financial, volunteering, or sharing expertise—is ever “too small.’ It may seem obvious, but every effort makes a difference. BALLOU has a diverse and talented community in the “real world.’ If every alumnus considered giving back in gratitude for what BALLOU provided, this noble institution would only grow stronger than it already is. There are many ways alumni can get involved—just ask a board member or bring your own ideas. I remain grateful to Balou High School for my rewarding years as a student and for the ongoing connections with fellow alumni, the dedicated Alumni Association Board of Directors, and volunteers. One of my main goals as the new alumni president is to boost involvement, loyalty, and support from all alumni. Whether from the Class of 1962 or 2025, we all should help BALLOU High School in any way we can. We look forward to your continued support of the Frank W. Ballou Senior High School Alumni Association. Get involved by joining a committee, volunteering at events, donating to student scholarships, or considering service on our board of directors.
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This is a great time to be a KNIGHT! “Once a Knight, Always a KNIGHT!
Lavonia E. Shirley (88)
(240) 766-5442