A special honor for MSCS Superintendent Dr. Joris M. Ray as the YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South celebrates the achievements of volunteers, partners, and the overall collective community impact of the organization. On May 5, the YMCA held its annual building dedication, Johnson YMCA project & award celebration. 

YMCA Youth Development Partner Award 

During the event, the YMCA presented awards to community leaders that have given support and dedication to furthering the YMCA mission. Superintendent Ray, the YMCA 2021 Red Triangle Award recipient, was presented the 2022 YMCA Youth Development Partner award.

“It's an honor to accept the YMCA Youth Development Award,” said Dr. Ray. “This recognition spotlights how we’re reimagining partnerships to positively impact families. It’s about uplifting Memphis and creating equitable opportunities for all students.”

According to the YMCA, “Dr. Ray has shown tireless commitment in combating education inequality focusing his efforts on providing digital devices and internet access, in improving reading skills, and being a positive role model to his students and families in Memphis and surrounding communities, and has been a true partner in Youth Development. We are so honored to be able to name our newest Early Learning Center for him and name him as our 2022 nominee for the YMCA Youth Development Partner award.”

Dr. Joris M Ray Early Learning Center 

An additional highlight for the YMCA this year is the future opening of the Georgette & Cato Johnson YMCA in Whitehaven and the Dr. Joris M Ray Early Learning Center, which is planned for this September, at the same location.

Some of the other notable features for the 32,454 sq. ft. structure include a spacious indoor pool facility, teen and community resource space, in addition to the planned 4000 sq. ft. wellness center and 3800 sq. ft. gymnasium.

Learn more about Superintendent Dr. Joris M. Ray here.