Feb. 14, 2022 -- Heights High Teacher O'Dasha Blue has been named the University Heights Educator of the Year for 2021, and Gearity fifth grader Sofia Mejia has received a Good Neighbor Award for her exceptional character. 

Mrs. Blue was nominated for the award by a colleague, who wrote that she "radiates positivity in all circumstances, which overflows to her students’ attitude about school and Chemistry class. Her consistent and tenacious approach to her subject material sets an example and a standard for everyone around her."

The Good Neighbor Awards are presented to those who go above and beyond to benefit the University Heights community. Gearity Elementary School fifth grader Sofia Mejia is a recipient of this award, nominated by Principal Patrick McNichols. Principal McNichols reports that that Sofia is a good student, worked her way through the English Learners program, volunteers on Tiger Council, and has exceptional character.

“For years, our city was known as the ‘City of Beautiful Homes,’’ said Mayor Michael Dylan Brennan. “And while our houses help make our city special, it’s the people who live in them who truly make University Heights exceptional. The Civic Awards are one way we say thank you to the residents and people who work here for all they do.”

Due to COVID-19 concerns, the 2021 awards were presented on social media. An in-person event is planned for the 2022 Civic Awards.