Mccray-penson keynotes Collierville event
Collierville High School Alumni Association hosted its inaugural scholarship fundraiser with keynote speaker Nikki Mccray-penson on Sunday. The event was complete with hors d’oeuvres and guest speakers in the school’s cafeteria. Proceeds from ticket sales raised college funds for current students.
The alumni association gives out about $30,000 each year ranging in amounts based on GPA, community service and other qualifications, according to the association board.
“I don’t know that many have seen a high school like this that’s built for students and mostly looks like a university,” Principal Roger L. Jones III said.
The new 450,000 square-foot high school building at 11605 E. Shelby Drive is in its second school year — though, Collierville High has been around since 1905.
Mccray-penson is among many proud “Dragons” who passed through the halls of Collierville High. The former professional women’s basketball player and current Old Dominion Lady Monarchs head coach returned to her hometown to give the evening address.
“It’s inspiring to see so many different individuals who have impacted my life and helped shape me into the woman I am today,” Mccray-penson said. “And to be shaping those students today.”
Mccray-penson describes the town and school as “beloved” and “special.” It’s there that she rose through the ranks in her early basketball years. Before she was an Olympic gold medalist, the 1991 graduate was conference MVP on Collierville’s women’s basketball team. Her former coach and several teammates were present.
“I have been so blessed throughout my life to have coached so many wonderful young ladies,” former coach Joe Brock said. “I’m so proud to be associated with their lives and they have touched my life so much.”
Brock recalled several fond memories of Mccray-penson during her high school career. He considers her an inspiration to all young people.
“My greatest achievement off-thecourt was having my son, that’s one, and beating cancer right now,” said Mccray-penson, who is a breast cancer survivor.
Former teammate and moderator Lisa Lee is also a breast cancer survivor. Early detection led her to surgery last December, which is key, she said.
“Believe it or not, two people that grew up, played basketball together and our coaches’ wife all experienced breast cancer,” Lee said. “With October coming up and Breast Cancer Awareness right around the corner, it’s so very important that we take this moment just to make sure everybody is doing what we need to do as far as taking care of our bodies.”
For more information about CHS Alumni Association scholarships, visit the alumni page on Collierville High School’s website.
Alexa Imani Spencer
Alexa Imani Spencer covers suburbs and breaking news for the Commercial Appeal. Reach her at alexa.spencer@ commercialappeal.com or 901-3049740.