Life is full of obstacles and challenges. Some people are able rise to the challenge and show considerable personal strength and spirit that is both impressive and humbling to see. The goal of the Houston Award is to recognize Portage Northern Seniors for their efforts in overcoming adversity.
Dr. James Houston was born in a very poor area in rural Alabama in 1943. Being African-America, Dr. Houston and his family faced many social obstacles such as persistent racial discrimination and Jim Crow laws. His family moved to Detroit after his dad was discharged from the military, hoping to gain a better life. They then moved once again to Dowagiac in Dr. Houston was in 9th grade to help an uncle whose wife had died and left four young children behind. Despite these obstacles, Dr. Houston was accepted to Western Michigan University where he earned a BA, MA, and PhD in Accounting and Finance.
Dr. Houston has worked for several businesses in Southwest Michigan including, the Kellogg Corporation, International Research and Development Corporation, and First of America Bank. Since his retirement in 2000, Dr. Houston has devoted time to serving on various committees and projects in the Kalamazoo community, including subbing here at Portage Northern as well as helping lead the Empowerment Club. Please take a few moments to view this interview with Dr. Houston here.
The Student Senate at Portage Northern asks staff to identify seniors who, just like Dr. Houston, have overcome obstacles (or are currently overcoming obstacles) such as:
- social obstacles such as race, implicit bias, or gender identity
- economic challenges like poverty or homelessness
- emotional obstacle such as the loss of a family member or other tragic life events
- physical challenges such as a physical disability or a language barriers
The Houston Award has been an annual tradition for many years. Within the last 4 years, The Houston Award has added a luncheon for the honorees, their guests, as well as members of the PNHS & PPS Administration.
Last Thursday, February 29, this year's Houston Award Luncheon honored 8 seniors from the Class of 2024. Each honoree was given an opportunity to speak, receive a plaque from Dr. Houston and were treated to a meal catered by Olive Garden. It was an event filled with smiles, tears and laughter. At Portage Northern we are humbled by our students and community each day. The students receiving this award, the students organizing and serving each other for this award, the staff and community members who support us and our students each day and many more. We are grateful for the connections that we are building at PN as a community. Please enjoy a few snapshots below of this amazing event. #PACKstrong
