BURGAW, NC — The Pender Education Partnership (PEP), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting students and educators in Pender County Schools, in collaboration with the Pender County Board of Education, celebrated the 2026 class of the Pender County Wall of Fame during a ceremony Monday evening at the Burgaw Town Center.
This year’s inductees, Glenda Yvonne Bannerman Johnson Pridgen, who was inducted posthumously, Robert Newton, Kenneth L. Keith and Hugh Highsmith II, were recognized for decades of service and contributions to education, business, leadership and the Pender County community.
2026 Inductees
Glenda Yvonne Bannerman Johnson Pridgen
Pridgen was posthumously inducted into the Pender County Wall of Fame in recognition of a life dedicated to education, family and service to others. A native of the Canetuck community of Burgaw, she received her early education at C.F. Pope School before continuing her studies at Fayetteville State University and Southeastern Community College. Her career included time in New York City before she returned home and served in several roles, including with Pender County Social Services and as manager of the Pender County Library. She was remembered for her kindness, generosity, love of children and commitment to helping others throughout her family and community.
Robert Newton
Newton devoted his career to education and to supporting students, families and fellow educators. His service included time as an assistant principal at D.C. Virgo in Wilmington and later as a substitute teacher and administrator in Pender County Schools. Pender Early College High School Principal Daniel Sidor, who nominated Newton for the honor, described him as a mentor and friend who became an important part of the school community and continued encouraging students and educators throughout his career. Newton also participated in the documentary Lessons From The Rosenwald Schools, sharing his experiences and helping preserve an important piece of Pender County history.
Kenneth L. Keith
Keith’s career has included significant contributions to both education and public service. He became the first African American to serve in Pender County as a Family Court Counselor and Juvenile Probation Officer and later became the first teacher of at-risk students in the county’s initial school-within-a-school alternative education program. He served as assistant principal at Pender High School and Topsail High School and was recognized as Pender County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year. His 31 years of service to the State of North Carolina were followed by another decade of part-time leadership after retirement. Keith has also remained active in youth development, coaching, civic organizations and community service.
Hugh Highsmith II
A 1962 graduate of Burgaw High School, Highsmith has devoted more than five decades to business and community life in Pender County. After seven years with Ford Motor Company, he returned to Burgaw in 1973 and established Fairway Ford, where he continues to serve as owner and president. Under his leadership, the locally owned and family-operated business has spanned three generations. Highsmith has also supported local organizations, encouraged career opportunities for young people and emphasized helping employees develop their skills and improve their lives.
The annual Wall of Fame recognition celebrates individuals whose achievements and service have made a lasting impact on Pender County while providing examples for future generations.
About the Pender County Wall of Fame
The Pender County Wall of Fame honors exceptional alumni and educators whose achievements serve as a model for current and future students. The display is located at the Pender County Schools Board of Education building in Burgaw. Each year, nominations are solicited from the public and reviewed by a selection committee made up of educators and community leaders.
About Pender Education Partnership
Founded in 2015, the Pender Education Partnership is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to enhance educational opportunities for students in Pender County Schools through collaboration with educators, parents, businesses and community partners. PEP works to provide resources and opportunities for students and educators, including student scholarships, educator mini-grants and educator recognition programs. pendereducationpartnership.org
PEP’s vision is for Pender County Schools students and graduates to be focused, motivated and ready for the next steps in their lives. The organization works with businesses, organizations and individuals throughout the community to raise funds and support programs that benefit students and teachers. pendereducationpartnership.org