During its regularly scheduled board meeting on September 8, the Birmingham Board of Education recognized the Power of Partnership honorees for their exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to our scholars.

MKS Foundation

The MKS Foundation supports Birmingham City Schools graduating high school students through their post-graduate learning as they pursue higher education. Beyond financial assistance, the MKS Foundation provides “The Foundation Experience,” a comprehensive program focused on essay writing, interviewing, business etiquette, networking, mentorship, and personal and professional development. 

Founded by Marsha Kelley-Sutton, the organization takes a personalized approach to addressing challenges that traditional scholarships may not cover. Scholars are also encouraged to use their talents to create philanthropic initiatives on campus, in their communities, or virtually, helping them grow into compassionate global leaders committed to service and positive social impact.

Susan “Mama” Newton

Tonight, we have the privilege of honoring a woman whose legacy cannot be measured in years alone, but in lives changed, futures redirected, and generations uplifted.

For more than four decades, Susan "Mama" Newton dedicated her life to serving young people throughout Birmingham. Through New Nation, Inc., which she founded in 1985, she devoted herself to helping youth build character, discover their purpose, and realize their potential.

Mama Newton was more than a mentor. She was a counselor, advocate, encourager, and trusted guide to countless young people. Whether through mentoring programs, retreats, after-school activities, or leadership development, she consistently saw the promise in every child she encountered and challenged them to become their very best.

Her impact across Birmingham City Schools is immeasurable. Through years of faithful service, she invested her time, wisdom, and love into students at Carver, Ensley, Hayes, Huffman, Jackson-Olin, Phillips, Wenonah, and Woodlawn. In each of these schools, she became more than a mentor. For many students, she became a steady presence, a source of encouragement, and a second mother who believed in them, often before they believed in themselves.

Mrs. Newton's legacy lives on in every student she encouraged, every life she touched, and every future she helped shape. Though we mourn her passing, we are grateful for the extraordinary example she set and the countless lives she transformed.

Thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for your love. Birmingham City Schools will never forget the difference you made.