FAIRHOPE, Ala. — On Friday, February 27, 2026, 300 guests gathered at The Venue in downtown Fairhope for the sold out 4th Annual Evening of Education Champions, raising $62,929 to support scholarships for future educators. Attendees enjoyed an evening of food, refreshments, live music, networking, and exciting silent and live auctions—all benefiting education in Baldwin County.

The event, presented by Riviera Utilities, serves as the signature fundraiser supporting the Baldwin Proud Future Teacher Scholarship, awarded to graduating seniors and undergraduates working toward a degree in the field of education, and the Josh Hall Memorial Scholarship, which assists Baldwin County Public Schools employees and children of employees who aspire to become a teacher or further their education.

Hosted by the Baldwin County Education Coalition in partnership with Baldwin County Public Schools, the Evening of Education Champions strengthens the connection between the community and public education. As the fiscal manager for the Baldwin Proud Future Teacher Scholarship Fund, BCEC helps meet critical needs where public funding falls short and ensures scholarship dollars are stewarded to support future educators.

“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the Evening of Education Champions continues to grow as a powerful investment to grow and retain teachers in Baldwin County,” said Terry Burkle, Executive Director of the Baldwin County Education Coalition. ‘When a community comes together in support of its teachers, we are strengthening the foundation of our entire school system and the future of Baldwin County.”

Since inception of the Baldwin Proud Future Teacher Scholarship Fund, 159 scholarships have been awarded totaling $159,000. The Education Champions Event has contributed nearly $200,000 to the scholarship fund over the last four years, helping expand opportunities for future teachers and supporting Baldwin County Public Schools’ long-term “grow our own” teacher pipeline.

“I’m so grateful to serve in a community that understands the value of investing in our future teachers,” said Eric West, Assistant Superintendent Human Resources, Baldwin County Public Schools. “The turnout for the Evening of Education Champions reflects what is possible when Baldwin County comes together to support the people who shape the future of our students every day. What an incredible evening of fellowship it was!”

Those interested in contributing to the Baldwin Proud Future Teacher Scholarship Fund or learning more about future scholarship opportunities can contact Terry Burkle, Executive Director of the Baldwin County Education Coalition, at tburkle@betterbaldwin.com