The Winston County Journal

A local icon of education received not only a celebration but a day set aside in her honor.

About 100 attendees including U.S. Congressman Chip Pickering celebrated Mattie Cooper's Day Friday, April 27 at J. R. Restaurant.

Cooper, director of the Head Start program, received many accolades for her 40 plus years of service to the head start program and all the children who have been a part of the program.

"This is a long time coming," said Irene Smith, a Head Start employee.

The event themed "Footprints of her labor" gave witness to Cooper's impact as a former student Jermaine Thompson read a poem in honor of Cooper and recognized that "it takes love for what you do to be in the education field."

"This is wonderful," said Cooper. "It is a real surprise and is unbelievable to be though of in such a way."

Tamara Frazier presented a plaque to Cooper to recognize the day while Congressman Pickering, Dr. B.M. Pittman, Dr. Dot Hearon, Thomas Coleman, Charles Holmes, Alice Jalloah, and Gwen Chamberlain offered words recognizing Cooper's contributions to the community.

Louisville Alderman Eugene Crosby delivered the proclamation recognizing Mattie Cooper's Day as April 27.

Cutline - Odessa Ransom addresses the crowd while Mattie Cooper seated next to Congressman Chip Pickering recovers from the surprise of the event.