Joy Grayson Honored With National Award for Outstanding Advocacy Efforts for Children and Education
National PTA has recognized Joy Grayson, Greenville County Schools school board member, with the 2016 Shirley Igo Advocate of the Year Award for her leadership and commitment to being a powerful voice for all children and a strong advocate for public education. Grayson was selected to receive the award among applicants from across the country. National PTA will honor Grayson at the association’s 2016 Legislative Conference, Wednesday, March 9 during a luncheon at the Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel in Arlington, Va.
“Joy Grayson advocates for what is best for all students, not just in Greenville County, but across the state of South Carolina,” said Greenville County Schools Superintendent Dr. Burke Royster. “Her passion for education is reflected in her numerous contributions as a school board member as well as her efforts to build collaborative partnerships with community agencies and elected officials. We are extremely proud to of this well-deserved recognition given to Mrs. Grayson by the National PTA.”
“Advocacy is critical to improve education and the lives and futures of our nation’s children. Joy exemplifies what it means to speak up and take action,” said Laura Bay, president of National PTA. “Joy’s efforts and leadership have truly made a difference for children, families, schools and communities across South Carolina. We are pleased to recognize her with the 2016 Shirley Igo Advocate of the Year Award.”
The Shirley Igo Advocate of the Year Award is named after past National PTA President (2001-2003) Shirley Igo, who was a model of public service and volunteerism throughout her life. She was an impassioned and compassionate leader, dedicated to moving PTA forward and committed to ensuring that others would follow.
Grayson is a passionate advocate for education opportunity and equity for all of South Carolina’s children. As vice president of advocacy for South Carolina PTA, Grayson led the adoption of an annual legislative platform for the association; organized and moderated an annual state legislative conference; and revamped the state membership unit to become a state advocacy unit, engaging community members in PTA who had no affiliation with a local unit. The association also partnered with other education advocacy organizations in South Carolina to develop a Collaborative K-12 Public Education Policy platform. Under Grayson’s leadership, South Carolina PTA has had a real presence at the table. Elected officials have asked for the association’s input on key issues, interest groups have attended meetings to present information, and state officials have participated in South Carolina PTA conventions and conferences. In addition to working at all levels to build and strengthen South Carolina PTA’s position as a compelling education advocate, Grayson has traveled throughout the state to empower all stakeholders to stand up for children.
Every year, the National PTA Legislative Conference brings together PTA leaders and advocates from across the country to explore the association’s public policy priorities and actively advocate for the education, health and well-being of every child.
During the conference—themed, “Family Engagement Drives Student Success”—attendees will hear from speakers and participate in interactive workshops and advocacy skill-building trainings. Attendees will also amplify their voices by meeting with congressional leaders on Capitol Hill, Thursday, March 10. For more information, visit PTA.org/LegCon.
For information on how to join the South Carolina PTA Advocacy Unit, visit SCPTA.org.
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.