August 18, 2010 – The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge is delighted to announce that the 13th Annual Smyth Education Awards were presented at the opening meeting of Nelson County Public Schools on Wednesday, August 18th at Nelson County High School.  Established in 1998, the Smyth Education Awards annually recognize and reward outstanding staff performance in the public schools of Nelson County.

During the ceremony, ten recipients were recognized for their exemplary efforts and presented with a plaque and a cash award.  The 2010 Smyth Education Award recipients are:  Diana Driver ( Drama Teacher, Nelson County High School), Kelly Ferrell (4th Grade Teacher, Tye River Elementary School), Donna Fitzgerald (Instructional Assistant, Nelson County Public Schools), Elizabeth Knight (Art Teacher, Nelson County High School), Gillian Lanier (Pre-Kindergarten Teacher, Rockfish River Elementary School), Melissa Powers (Media Specialist, Nelson Middle School), Kim Price (3rd Grade Teacher, Tye River Elementary School), Gary Scott (Bus Driver, Rockfish River Elementary School), Steve Washington (Custodian, Nelson Middle School), Sarah Wood (Administrative Secretary/Receptionist, Nelson County Public Schools Central Office).

About the Community Foundation
The Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge enriches the quality of life by responding to needs and inspiring philanthropy in our community.  The Foundation serves the cities of Staunton and Waynesboro and Augusta, Nelson and Highland counties. As one of the largest philanthropic institutions in the Central Blue Ridge, the Foundation is committed to careful stewardship of and thoughtful investment in our region’s future.  Unlike other non-profit organizations, the Community Foundation is endowed in perpetuity.   The Foundation is also known for providing grants and scholarships in the community, the annual Dawbarn Education Awards and The Big Read.