Brownwood Middle School Digital Media Specialist/Librarian, DaLin Cummings, was honored on Wednesday, May 6th, during the school’s annual “Joan Stewart Point of Light” ceremony. The award honors a teacher who portrays the type of excellence in education and life examples that characterized Joan Stewart’s life and teaching career.
In 2005, the science wing of Brownwood Middle School was named the “Joan Stewart Science Hall,” in a dedication program honoring her as an outstanding educator. Stewart was described in a letter to the BISD Board of Trustees as, “…an outstanding teacher at Brownwood Jr. High/Middle School for 29 years imparting not only science knowledge; but even more importantly, she was an outstanding role model to her students in word and deed. Joan was also an outstanding leader beyond the classroom in her faith, her family and her hobbies. In a world that desperately needs heroes, it is truly right and proper to honor Joan Stewart for the out-of-the-ordinary everyday hero she was.”
Cummings’ name was added to the “Point of Light” plaque that is displayed in the BMS Main office, and a book will be added to the library in her honor. In addition, Cummings received a lamp to symbolize the “light” she has been in the lives of those around her.
The touching ceremony included a video slideshow featuring moments from Cummings life, as well as endearing remarks regarding Cummings from the BMS faculty led by Brenda Howard.
The gymnasium, packed with BMS students, faculty, and Cummings’ friends and family, was filled with emotion throughout the ceremony. BMS students listened intently while Cummings’ was honored for her positive spirit and determination that continues to shine even amidst her ongoing battle with cancer. Cummings has fought the disease for nearly 3 years after spots were detected on her spine.
Brownwood ISD recently presented Cummings with a check from its Pink-Out cancer fundraiser and BMS continues to support Cummings with events to help her pay for medical expenses. “We want to raise money to help with her traveling expenses and any other expenses she might have,” said BMS coach and previous Point of Light recipient, Judy Kennedy regarding a past Lady Cub Volleyball Benefit Match that was organized for Cummings. “DaLin played volleyball for me at Brownwood High School several years ago,” said Kennedy. “We want her to know we care and we love her.”
The family of Joan Stewart presented the award to Cummings who will be added to the list of previous honorees that include Judy Kennedy (2104), Ann Costa (2013), Diana Mullins (2012), Mal Aaron (2011), Carolyn Brandenburg (2010), Damon Bagley (2009), Shirley Teague (2008), Nancy Blackstock (2007), and Elizabeth Miller (2006).
Additional photos from the event can be viewed at: www.brownwoodisd.org/bms2015pol
Pictured above: 2015 BMS Point of Light honoree, DaLin Cummings (left), poses with Mary Woodcox, sister of Joan Stewart.