Wilbert F. Mays SDA School Celebrates 10th Annual Jewel of the Nile Gala
On Sunday, May 3, 2026, the Wilbert F. Mays Seventh-day Adventist School hosted its 10th Annual Jewel of the Nile Service Awards and Fundraising Gala at the Teaneck Marriott at Glenpointe in Teaneck, New Jersey. Centered around the theme, “A Child Shall Lead the Way,” the evening highlighted student excellence, faith, community service, and the lasting impact of Christian education.
The program featured special musical performances and presentations from Wilbert F. Mays students, including a dance rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing and a lively performance of It’s a Hard Knock Life. Guests also enjoyed a musical selection from Ja’Neil Humphrey that added to the evening’s uplifting atmosphere. One of the evening’s featured student speakers was Ariel Brown, an eighth-grade student who has attended Wilbert F. Mays since the age of three. During her remarks, Ariel shared how the school helped shape her foundation by teaching her how to read and write and expressed how proud she is to be a part of the Wilbert F. Mays family.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Ron C. Smith, president of the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. A native of Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Smith is a lifelong product of Christian education and has served congregations across North America. He holds degrees from Oakwood University, Andrews University, Colgate Rochester Theological Seminary, and Fuller Graduate School of Psychology.
Drawing from Matthew 8:23–27, Mark 4:35–41, and Luke 8:22–25, Dr. Smith spoke powerfully about Jesus calming the storm. He reminded attendees that storms in life can cause fear even among faithful believers, yet Jesus remains present through every trial. “Just because you are in a storm doesn’t mean Jesus isn’t there,” he shared, emphasizing that Christ may be quiet for a moment but is always working and ready to reveal Himself. Dr. Smith encouraged listeners to trust God even in uncertain moments, reminding them that Jesus is not just a historical figure but “the captain of the world” whom even the winds and waves obey.
The gala also honored several outstanding individuals for their contributions to education, leadership, philanthropy, and community service. Honorees included Pamela O’Garro-Humphrey, MSW, and Maureen Ince with the Trailblazer Award; Kamarr Thomas, Ed.D. candidate, and Ann Smith with the Outstanding Educator Award; Dionisio Cuctta and Kamesha Scarlett Rosser with the Community Service Award; Pastor Richard Campbell and Michelle D. Bowman with the Philanthropy Award; and Michael Williams with the Distinguished Alumni Award.
The evening concluded with an auction, a donation appeal, a special handbell presentation by the students, and a moving rendition of We Are the World, bringing the celebration to a heartfelt close while reinforcing the school’s mission of faith, service, and leadership for future generations.
