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Flanked by balloons and holding an oversized check, Northside High School Senior Tren’kell Reeves could not hide her excitement after discovering she had been named the winner of the student emcee contest for the HISD Foundation’s 2019 Public Education Matters Benefit Dinner.
“I am so happy that I am shaking,” Reeves, who goes by the nickname “TK,” said. “I have four younger sisters, and I just can’t wait to tell them!”
Along with hosting the event, Reeves earned a $2,500 college scholarship. Over 100 prospective emcees sent in audition videos, but according to HISD Chief Development Officer Ann Best Scott, Reeves’ video stood out.
“Tren’kell’s poise and personality really came through on her audition video,” Scott said. “We are excited to have her serve as host. I can’t think of anyone better to serve as emcee than a student who directly benefits from public education.”
At Northside, Reeves maintains a 3.0 GPA while taking dual-credit, AP, and honors courses. She serves as Senior Class Vice President and is a member of the Houston Police Department Explorers Program. She also serves as a volunteer for the Houston Food Bank’s Step Healthy Program. After graduation, Reeves plans to attend Sam Houston State University and major in criminal justice.
Along with her academic accomplishments, around school, Reeves is also known as a dedicated friend and mentor.
“TK is a true leader,” said Northside High School College Access Coordinator Maria Paloma Garner. “She cares deeply for the well being of those around her and never hesitates to act for the greater good.”
As this year’s master of ceremonies, she will host a crowd of over 1,500. Attendees will be a who’s who of the city, including elected officials, notable community members and business leaders. But that doesn’t faze Reeves — she is ready for the challenge.
“I know that they are going to love me,” she said. “I love to smile, and I hope I can make them smile, as well.”
The Public Education Matters Benefit Dinner, which is being held in lieu of HISD’s annual State of the Schools luncheon, will take place from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5 at the Hilton Americas Hotel (1600 Lamar St., 77010).
Funds raised at the benefit dinner will go directly to the HISD Foundation to support strategic student-centered initiatives like the Innovation Fund, which financially supports community gardens, robotics, coding, and literacy programs.
Tickets are available for purchase at www.houstonisd.org/PEMTickets