On March 23rd, the Hayward Education Foundation put on its annual Gala,“A Night of Heores,” to honor its supporters and raise funds for next year’s grant program for Hayward schools.  (click here for photos:  https://picasaweb.google.com/112513285465630945782/2012HEFGalaANightOfHeroes?authkey=Gv1sRgCPjswIWHw53ZAw)

Located in the University Union at Cal-State East Bay, the Gala  was host to nearly 200 people who came to drink, to eat, to schmooze while looking down on the glittering lights of the Bay Area.  And, to be entertained.  President Dianne McDermott served as co-host along with local news personality, John M. Kessler.   The night’s activities began with a silent auction for numerous donated items, especially beautiful student art from Moreau Catholic and Mount Eden High school.  Guests strolled in to dinner, accompanied by the mellow sounds of the Moreau Catholic High School Jazz Ensemble.  Later, after an inspiring speech by Hayward Police Chief Diane Urban, everyone enjoyed the lively Mariachi de Juvenil Hayward, led by Educator of the Year and Principal at Harder Elementary, Hector Garcia.  And last but not least, the spirited Hayward High P.R.I.D.E. Band pumped up the guests before the Live Auction.

The highlight was a slide show of thanks from Hayward teachers and students to H.E.F. and its supporters for the grants that enriched their classroom experience.   With the support exhibited at the Gala, H.E.F. should be able to aide local education for many years to come.

2012 HERO Award recipients were introduced by President McDermott.  3rd Annual HERO Dinner will be held at the Golden Peacock Restaurant on April 26th to honor all 29 award recipients. 

At evening’s end,  different guest auctioneers--including Hayward Mayor Mike Sweeney, City Council Members Barbara Halliday and Francisco Zermeno, and Police Chief Urban--conducted a lively bidding among H.E.F. supporters willing to spend money for a good deal, thus further supporting H.E.F.