It was a bittersweet night for the Ben D. Johnson Educational Center family as staff and supporters gathered for the fourth and final “I Tried” celebration on Aug. 26. The center, a stalwart of the area’s educational and philanthropic scene for the past 8 years, will close its doors Sept. 30 due to the loss of federal and state funding.

The evening’s mood was far from glum, however. The event was a combination of celebration of the Ben D. Johnson Center’s considerable accomplishments, recognizing a few of the many community leaders who have made a difference over the years, and of hope for the future.

NSU’s Matthew Craig was recognized as the I Tried Rising Young Professional. Phil and Mary Lou Brown were recognized as the I Tried Community Advocate Awardees. Gail Metoyer-Jones was named as the I Tried Lifetime Achievement Awardee for her unstinting community service in a variety of roles. The center’s Board of Directors them recognized President and Founder Claire Prymus for her vision, tireless work and dedication.

During its eight years of existence, the Ben D. Johnson Educational Center had an outsized impact upon our area. There are several hundred young men and women in our community who earned their high school equivalency diploma, received training in culinary arts, industrial safety, heavy machinery and life skills through the center’s programs. Many a life trajectory was changed for the better when hard work and desire met opportunity. The Ben D. Johnson Center was a powerful force for good in our community.

The center will keep the superb Legacy Café open and will retain its 501C-3 designation.