FAME Celebrates 20
Toni Lewis (center) with FAME leaders and award winners. PHOTOS: COURTESY INSPR MEDIA.
Toni Lewis took her dream and decided to turn it into a reality on stage that would be a beacon of light for generations. Now, two decades later, her light is shining more brightly than ever.
FAME (Foundation for the Advancement of Music & Education) recently hosted its 20th Year Anniversary with a Gala and Awards Celebration at the University of Maryland’s Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center.
Founded in 2004 by A. Toni Lewis, FAME's mission is to give every young musician the best opportunity to succeed by providing music training and academic support. They believe that children, teens, and young adults should have access to quality music and education regardless of social and economic needs. Music is the instrument that FAME uses to capture youths’ attention, build their self-confidence, and foster academic success.
Tony Perkins, NBC4 Anchor, served as the MC for the evening, which featured a special performance by The Chelsey Green Project and the FAME Jazz Ensemble. Attendees enjoyed music, awards, and entertainment, celebrating the organization's incredible journey over the past two decades.
Four community leaders were honored for their exemplary contributions:
Enid Doggett - CEO and Founder of INSPR Media - Community & Nonprofit Champion Award
Colonel James Paige - Executive Director of CCNA–Outstanding Community Partner Award
Dr. Portia Barnes - Principal of Eleanor Roosevelt High School - Education Leader of the Year Award
Benjamin McKnight - Music Chair of The Andrew Jackson Academy - Outstanding Educator Award
”This event showcases the contributions of four notable leaders who have significantly impacted our community," said Greg Wells, FAME board member and event chair. "Our esteemed honorees have done impactful work throughout their stellar careers worth celebrating and emulating."
This year alone, FAME supported 1,200 middle and high school youth in the Greater Washington Region for college and career through its three main programs: Music Is Central Program, Summer Music Program, and the FAME Jazz Band Program. They are strategically located across Prince George’s County to serve all youth: University of Maryland School of Music (north), Dr. Henry Wise High School (central), Harmony Hall Arts Center (south), and The Andrew Jackson Academy (south).
