DEARBORN – Two of the city’s most distinguished leaders were honored by the Dearborn Education Foundation on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at a fundraiser at the Michael Berry Career Center for an organization that benefits students at a time where more help than ever is needed.

U.S. Congressman John Dingell (D-Dearborn) and longtime community leader Michael Berry were both honored for their support for education in the Dearborn area by the Dearborn Education Fund on Wednesday, Sept. 28. PHOTO: Nafeh AbuNab/American Elite Studios

Sir Michael Berry, a community leader, prominent lawyer and longtime supporter of Dearborn schools, and longtime U.S. Congressman John Dingell (D-Dearborn), who has been a staunch education supporter, were both awarded at the event. 

The event kicked off with a an energetic drum line performance by the black-and-gold clad Arabic music ensemble from Maples Elementary School prior to the program. 

Executive Director Eddie Fakhoury thanked guests and volunteers while highlighting the organization’s accomplishments and goals. 

The district has been particularly hit hard by government cuts, but the foundation helps fill in the gaps by upgrading classroom equipment, providing supplies, giving out teacher grants and scholarships, upgrading technology and more. To date, the organization has spent about $1.3 million on projects within the school district. 

Dearborn Public Schools Superintendent Brian Whiston had high praise for the foundation.

“The foundation touches kids and touches lives…those who have donated have made the foundation successful,” he said. “It allows for things the district can’t do on its own, and I want to thank you deeply for your help during these tough times.” 

Whiston was thanked for his support from foundation President Brian Mosallam, who introduced Berry,  affectionately calling him “Uncle Mike.” 

“Education has always been not just the cornerstone of my life, but education is life,” Berry said, referring to a speech one of his own mentors gave him. He encouraged support for the foundation and for guests to keep open minds and hearts. 

U.S. Congressman John Conyers (D-Detroit) also congratulated and awarded the two leaders and said he was impressed with the Berry Center. 

Fellow Congressman Dingell, the Dean of the U.S. House, was introduced by Dearborn Mayor Jack O’Reilly who once worked for him in Washington. He highlighted Dingell’s work ethic and care for the environment and his constituents. 

Dingell spoke highly of the foundation.

“They’ve accomplished so much…with them everyone pulls together to make this a better place for all,” he said. 

He said the country in general has issues in facing up to its problems and needs to invest more in its youth.

“All we’ve been doing is, ‘Cut, cut, cut,’ we’re fighting two wars on a credit card,” he said. “We don’t realize that a healthy, vigorous, educated populace is the future of our nation and how we may compete in one of the most difficult (business) worlds.” 

In addition to Dingell and Berry’s honors, Caryn Solferino was also honored for her contributions to the foundation. 

Those interested in donating to the organization can visit www.dearbornedfoundation.org or call Fakhoury at 313.827.8790. More info can also be found about its Oct. 2 golf outing at TPC Dearborn.