The Houston Area Alliance of Black School Educators (HAABSE) has selected Houston Independent School District Interim Superintendent Grenita Lathan as this year’s recipient of its most prestigious award for educators and public servants who make significant contributions to the city’s diverse educational, cultural, and social heritage.

The Elaine Bailey Heart of HAABSE Award is an acknowledgment by the recipient’s peers that the honoree has made exemplary contributions to the educational profession and community.

“To be recognized by your peers is always special because they have a clear understanding of the work, commitment and vision required to equip our children to realize their full potential and become global scholars,” Lathan said. “I am extremely honored to receive this award, and it’s a direct reflection of the important work HISD is doing to support every student.”

HAABSE President Kwabena Mensah said Lathan was selected because of her commitment to academia, her local, state, and national professional service, and her efforts to enhance the learning environment for Houston area students.

Lathan will be presented with the award during a ceremony on Friday, Feb. 7 at 6 p.m. at the Bayou City Event Center, 9401 Knight Road, 77045.