Hilda Rodrigue Impact Award

Celebrating the Legacy of a Mother's Love for Education

The Hilda Rodrigue Impact Award, established in 2022, is a celebration of the Legacy of a Mother's Love for Education. The Hilda Rodrigue Impact Award is designed to recognize and support educators who demonstrate a commitment to education and a passion for making a positive impact in their communities.


Hilda Rodrigue was a woman who knew the value of education. As a mother, she worked tirelessly as a housekeeper to ensure that her children could attend college and pursue their dreams. She wanted to be a teacher herself, yet gave up her dream to support the dreams of her daughter, Dr. Donna L. Houpe, Founder of the Gathering of Pearls Foundation, becoming a teacher one day. To honor her mom’s sacrifice, Dr. Houpe went on to work as a public school teacher for over 12 years and has been an Executive Administrator for Harvest Christian School for over 30 years. Ms. Rodrigue's unwavering dedication to her children's education is an inspiration to us all, and her legacy continues to impact the lives of many.


In honor of Hilda's memory, we are proud to announce the Hilda Rodrigue Impact Award. We believe that Hilda Rodrigue's legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of education and the impact that a single individual can make in the world. Through the Hilda Rodrigue Impact Award, we hope to celebrate her life and inspire a new generation of educators as they pursue their dreams and make a difference in their communities.




  • Nomination Process

    Nominate an educator by completing the application form. Applications for the Hilda Rodrigue Impact Award will open on February 15 and close on March 15. Educators will receive their award on the 1st Saturday of June at our Made for Success Brunch, where scholars from across the metro will also receive scholarships to college. We look forward to honoring Hilda's legacy through this award.  

  • Questions

    Submit questions to  application@gopfnd.org


EDUCATOR STORY

"It is truly an honor to be recognized among such dedicated educators who share a passion for making a positive impact in our communities. Having devoted my career to education, I have always striven to inspire and uplift my students while creating an enriching learning environment. This award not only acknowledges my efforts but also serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role educators play in shaping futures and fostering communities...


Thank you again for this prestigious recognition inspired by the legacy of Hilda Rodrigue and I will continue to work passionately to uphold the values she championed in education."

-- Dr. Marjorie Williams, 2025 Impact Award Recipient