This year, NEF gave out over $20,000 in a total of 38 grants to benefit teachers, students, and the community. NEF celebrates
giving back more than $100,000 in ten years. Furthermore, the Peggy L. Taylor Grant was awarded to Wendi Watson, the
Linda Noble Grant was awarded to Dr. Lara Wilbur and Wendi Watson, and the Dr. Stephen Kleinsmith Grant was awarded to
Hannah Horgan.
To conclude the evening, retirees were spotlighted and awarded a brass bell for their service. This year had the largest number
of Nixa school retirees in the last decade, representing 417 years of their service to education in the Nixa school district. “Is it
any wonder that Nixa is the best school district?” asked Allen, proudly. As Whitworth celebrated her retirement, the rest of the
Board of Directors decided that effective immediately, the Service to Education Award would be renamed to the Kathy
Whitworth Service of Education Award.
The gala truly spotlighted and appreciated all of the hard work, time, and dedication the entire Nixa community pours into its
schools and will continue to show its appreciation as it has done for the past decade.
NEF would like to thank Modern Woodmen, Great Southern Bank, Dake Wells Architecture, Field House Sports Center,
Guaranty Bank, Central Bank, Sodexo, Missouri State University, Oak Star Bank, Dr. Gearl & Monica Loden, Dr. Emmett &
Becky Sawyer, Dr. Ryan & Teresa Huff, and Jeff & Lisa Allen for their sponsorship of the 2019 Gala.