
Stars of education
Join us on November 5, 2025 to celebrate Wake County’s education champions.
2025 Star Among Us
Nominations Now Open
Nominate a WCPSS educator who is making a difference in the school & community
Our Awards
Lifetime achievement
This highest honor is given to an individual who has dedicated their life to improving and creating an unmatched impact on public education.
Friend of Education
Since 1990, this award has honored individuals who, like Senator Vernon Malone, champion public education and use their voice and leadership to uplift all students.
WCPSS Hall of fame
Community Stars
This NEW award is given to a star teacher and student who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their craft and aspirations, and in doing so elevate WCPSS.
History of the Gala
Stars of Education is WakeEd Partnership’s annual awards gala dinner to celebrate and honor those who have made lasting contributions to public schools in Wake County. The event is WakeEd’s largest fundraiser of the year, with proceeds going to support our mission and programs. At the gala each year WakeEd presents the Vernon Malone Friend of Education Award and inducts new members into the Wake County Public School System Hall of Fame. WakeEd also presents its Robert E. Bridges Lifetime Achievement Award at the Gala on a semi-regular basis during years where an honoree is selected.
































2024 Hall of Fame
2024 Vernone malone
Friend of Education Award

Rep. Rosa Gill
Representative Rosa Gill has had a distinguished career dedicated to education and public service in Wake County, North Carolina. Gill, a native of Wake County, graduated from Shaw University with a major in Mathematics and pursued further studies at NCSU, NCCU, and Duke University. Her journey began as a classroom teacher, where she also served as a student council advisor and coached girls’ varsity tennis and track.
Gill’s commitment to education led her to the Wake County Public School Board of Education, where she served for ten years, including terms as Chair and Vice Chair. During her tenure, she worked on policies to enhance academic success, integrate schools, address busing and student assignment issues, and secure a $1 million school bond for facility expansion.
In 2009, Gill was appointed to the North Carolina House of Representatives, filling a vacant seat. She was then elected to the General Assembly for seven consecutive two-year terms, where she became known for her advocacy in education, women’s and children’s issues, healthcare access, and social justice. After a long and impactful career, 24 years as an educator and 24 years in politics she decided not to seek reelection in 2024.
2024 Community Awards
Our Amazing 2024 Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor

Award Sponsor



Reception Sponsor

photo booth sponsor

Event Sponsors



WCPSS Hall of Fame Sponsors


Stars Among Us Sponsors


Public School Champion Sponsors





Leadership Recognition Sponsors

Honor Roll Sponsors
















Caroline McCullen Family & Friends
Triangle Community Foundation
Carruthers Foundation
Wake Stone
Capitol Broadcasting Company
WLFL/WRDC
AJ Fletcher Foundation
Wake PTA Council
NC State College of Education
Pierce Group Benefits
Alfred & Williams Company
Mary Mac and Tom Bradshaw
Media Partners | In-Kind sponsors



