Huntsville ISD’s Beloved Vanetta Mills Recognized for Decades of Service and Community Impact
Huntsville, TX – In a heartwarming ceremony on Saturday evening, December 9th, the Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 89th Annual Awards Gala, where a special highlight was the presentation of the 2023 Mance Park Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious accolade, sponsored by Huntsville ISD, was awarded to none other than Vanetta Mills, a lifelong resident of Huntsville and a beacon of dedication and service within the community.
Vanetta Mills, a proud 1984 graduate of Huntsville High School and a Hornet through and through, has been a cornerstone of the Huntsville education system for over three decades. For 35 years, she has served Huntsville ISD with unwavering commitment, currently holding the vital role of Administrative Assistant to the principal at Huntsville Elementary School. Her colleagues affectionately describe her as the glue holding the campus together, a testament to her dedication and impact.
Beyond her professional achievements, Vanetta’s contributions to the community are profound and multifaceted. As the founder and president of the Community Praise Ministry, a local nonprofit organization, she has channeled her servant heart and volunteer spirit into creating lasting change. The Community Praise Ministry is known for its array of volunteer activities, including the MLK Day Celebration, a mentoring program, a summer enrichment program, and a scholarship initiative for students.
Perhaps the most notable of these efforts is the annual Back to School Supply Giveaway, an event that has grown into a significant collaboration between the school district, faith-based groups, businesses, and other community partners. This carnival-style celebration provides school supplies to children in need, ensuring that local families are supported. Under Vanetta’s leadership, the event has evolved into a large-scale, impactful community gathering.
The plaque on the prestigious Mance Park award fittingly reads, “Like Mance Park, you have molded the lives of so many individuals, contributing great value to our community and to this world.” This statement encapsulates the essence of Vanetta Mills’ contribution to Huntsville – a legacy of love, service, and dedication that has positively influenced thousands of children and families in the area.
As Vanetta Mills received her award, the sense of pride and admiration from the Huntsville community was palpable. It was not just an honor for HISD to recognize such an exceptional individual, but also a moment of collective pride for the entire community. As stated during the celebration, Mance Park himself would indeed be proud of the legacy continued by such a remarkable woman. Congratulations to Vanetta Mills, a true treasure whose impact on the world is immeasurable.
