The Little Rock School District’s Volunteers in Public Schools (ViPS) hosted its annual volunteer recognition celebration, An Evening for the Stars, on Tuesday night, which brought together district staff, students, families, and community partners. It was a night to honor the individuals and organizations who dedicate their time and talents to support LRSD schools.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 ViPS Jane Mendel Award, which was presented to Rachel Knox for her extraordinary, district-wide impact and years of dedicated service. Aaron Lubin was also recognized with the 2025 Champion Award for his outstanding leadership and advocacy as a volunteer.
Several other special honors were awarded, recognizing a wide range of contributions across the LRSD community:
Partners in Education Awards - Legendary Institute and Saint Mark Baptist Church for their exemplary partnership and commitment to student success
Mentor Awards - Lessons in Life Mentoring Program and Central High Teacher Colton Gilbert
Community Resource Award - CDI Contractors for their support in completing the Malin Reed Opitz Outdoor Space at Jefferson Elementary
Community Volunteer Awards - Kevin Pranoto and Keith Saine for continued service and outreach
Family and school-based support was also celebrated:
Family Engagement Award - Forest Park Elementary PTA
Leadership Support Award - Katy Campbell for her dedication to supporting volunteer coordination and development
Employee Volunteer Awards - Marthelle Hadley (Stephens Elementary) and Deborah Ramsey (Carver STEAM Magnet Elementary)
Alumnus Volunteer Awards - Lauren Ritchie, Kimberly Badejo, and Melvin and Karen Swift for ongoing support at the campus level
Student Volunteer Award - Ethan Sadli (Pinnacle View Middle)
The evening also included recognition of those who earned the President’s Volunteer Service Award, including lifetime qualifiers Ginny Belotti and Rachel Knox. Additional honorees included:
Courtney Black
Katy Campbell
Jason Crader
Ashley Diggs
Kim Evans
Janai Harris
Tyrone Harris
Susan Jackson
Angelia M. Johnson
Gina Khoury
Chiquita Laster
John Madlock
Nell Matthews
Brandi Nichols
Deborah Ramsey
Dr. Shoutell Richardson
Sonya Ridout
Jessica E. Sanders
Holly Shields
Lizzie Bee Swinton
Nicole Tiedeman
An Evening for the Stars was a tribute to the selfless individuals and dedicated groups who help make LRSD a better place to learn, grow, and thrive. Thanks to their combined support, more than $23-million worth of volunteer hours were donated to LRSD schools this school year. The ViPS team and LRSD extend their deepest gratitude to every volunteer across the district who continues to make a lasting difference, one act of service at a time.