4th Annual Elevate Savannah Leadership Awards Dinner

Honoring Helen Downing, Dr. Jermaine Whirl, and Dr. Shirley James

The Elevate Savannah Leadership Awards Dinner is an evening dedicated to recognizing extraordinary leaders who have made a lasting impact on our community and exemplify the spirit of service, mentorship, and leadership that Elevate Savannah seeks to cultivate in the next generation.

This year, Elevate Savannah is proud to honor Helen Downing, Dr. Jermaine Whirl, and Dr. Shirley James for their contributions to our community and their commitment to helping others thrive.Their leadership reflects the kind of positive influence that can shape individuals, strengthen communities, and create opportunities for generations to come.

The Leadership Awards Dinner reflects Elevate Savannah’s commitment to celebrating the individuals whose leadership and dedication have made a meaningful difference in our community.

Through individualized mentorship, peer leadership, academic support, and career training, Elevate’s teacher-mentors help students build confidence, discover their potential, and develop the skills they need to thrive both in school and beyond graduation.

Guests will have the opportunity to connect with current and former Elevate students, teacher-mentors, staff, and board members; learn more about the program’s impact; and hear firsthand stories of growth and achievement. Together, we’ll celebrate the lasting impact of mentorship and the role it plays in empowering the next generation of leaders in our community.

Join us for an inspiring evening of celebration, connection, and purpose as we honor three remarkable leaders and invest in the future of Savannah's youth.