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Education Hero Award Dinner

A tribute to
Jim Murren,
Myrna Tormé Williams &
Dr. Walt Rulffes

September 25, 2010 at 6 p.m.
Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

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Each September, The Public Education Foundation honors unique individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment and dedication to children and education by presenting two distinct awards to the heroes amongst us.

Jim Murren
The Education Hero Award
The prestigious Education Hero Award recognizes individuals who have made significant civic and charitable contributions impacting public education in Southern Nevada. Each honoree has demonstrated extraordinary concern for our community and our future and is dedicated to the advancement of improved educational opportunities for all. Their steadfast commitment and unwavering service to our children distinguishes them as our “Education Heroes.” Our Education Heroes.

Myrna Tormé Williams & Dr. Walt Rulffes
The Lifetime Education Achievement Award
The Lifetime Education Achievement Award is presented by The Public Education Foundation to individuals whose lifetime achievements are truly extraordinary. Recipients have given generously and worked tirelessly as advocates for quality public education and greater educational opportunities for all children. This award is bestowed upon special individuals whose dedication and determination serve to inspire each of us to become more involved in shaping our children’s future. Our Lifetime Education Achievement Honorees.

Since 1998, when Jim Murren moved to Las Vegas, he has dedicated himself to making our community a better place. As a fervent supporter of diversity, an advocate for better health and wellness facilities, a passionate believer in the value of public art and champion of the power of education, Jim’s leadership is evident through the many endeavors he has undertaken and successfully completed.

For more than 50 years, Myrna Tormé Williams has worked tirelessly to build a strong and vibrant community, which has impacted innumerable lives. After serving more than a decade in the department of social work at UNLV, she stepped forward to help lead our community as Nevada Assemblywoman and Speaker Pro-Tempore and, then, as a Clark County Commissioner. During her more than 20 years as an elected official, Myrna created policies and laws protecting children and families and improving public education.

Dr. Walt Rulffes has led the Clark County School District through some of its toughest times. He has created more opportunities for our children and has been committed to improving graduation rates and dropout rates through innovative programs, like Empowerment Schools and career and technical academies, both of which are making a difference for our students. His reforms and accomplishments have been recognized locally and nationally and will continue to positively impact students for many years.

Video Highlights from our 2009 Education Heroes Award Dinner
Pat Mulroy Tribute
Dr. William H. "Bob" Bailey Tribute
Circle of Friends Tribute

In 2009, the Foundation unveiled a new award category – Champion of Children. This esteemed award is presented to an individual dedicated to supporting children and championing children’s issues nationally and globally. This celebrated honor recognizes a special person whose dedication and passion serves to inspire others to become more involved in shaping our children’s future. Our Champions of Children.

Photos from our 2009 Education Heroes Award Dinner

Purchase “A Hero Named Pat” children’s book