The stars shined bright on some of Pasadena ISD's top graduates, their mentors and education foundation supporters at the Pasadena ISD Education Foundation/Shining Stars Gala at the Hobby Hilton Hotel.

For the past six years, the gala has honored the top 10 seniors from Sam Rayburn, South Houston, Dobie, Pasadena and Pasadena Memorial high schools along with Pasadena ISD educators they selected as those who inspired them the most. Each educator and student received a plaque for their recognition, and each student received a Dell laptop and case. Dell has served as a partner with the district for more than 10 years.

The Foundation also shined the spotlight on 1972 Pasadena High School graduate John Eddie Williams as they presented him with the Community Shining Star award. Williams is founder and managing partner of Williams Kherkher law firm. In 2008, he and his wife Sheridan make the largest individual donation in the history of the foundation by contributing $100,000.

Past recipients of the award include 1969 and 1973 Pasadena High School graduates Mike and Bill Barmore, who are president and vice president of Barmore Insurance Agency, Inc, along with Ben and Janice Meador of Meador Staffing Services and Mel Cowart.