CeCe Peniston Becomes Newest National PTA Ambassador

11/3/2008

CHICAGO (November 3, 2008) – International multi-platinum recording artist and Billboard star CeCe Peniston became National PTA’s newest Ambassador. PTA’s Chief Executive Officer Byron Garrett made the announcement while introducing her special performance at PTA’s Commitment to America’s Children Gala. Her performance included a snippet of a song that Peniston is currently recording for PTA, called “Above Horizons.”

In her new role as a National Ambassador, Peniston will join millions of parents and educators to work toward improving the lives of children, as well as urging parents and families to be more involved. She follows in the footsteps of dozens of community leaders, celebrities, legislators, and U.S. Presidents, all of whom have lent their voices and support to PTA to make a difference in the lives of children. Peniston, who travels to perform around the globe for her millions of fans, will lend her support by visiting schools and speaking directly with families, as well being a strong advocate for arts in education.

Also at the event, Mathew and Tina Knowles were presented the esteemed National PTA Commitment to America’s Children Award for their work across the country on behalf of families and children in need.

Mathew, a record executive and manager, and Tina, a fashion designer, along with their daughters Beyoncé and Solange and Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland, are passionate about helping the homeless and youth. Their combined efforts to help families and children include:

• Building The Knowles-Rowland Center for Youth in Houston;
• Establishing The Survivor Foundation;
• Establishing the Knowles-Rowland Temenos Place Apartments in Houston;
• Launching The Beyoncé Experience Tour Food Drive in the United States and a Beyoncé Experience Global Food Drive around the world to help; and
• Donating to numerous nonprofit organizations throughout the world.

The gala took place on Thursday, October 30, at the Palmer House Hilton Hotel in Chicago with hundreds of education, business and community leaders from across the country who gathered to reaffirm their commitment to America’s children and to support PTA’s efforts.

About PTA
As the nation’s largest volunteer parent organization, PTA comprises more than 5 million members, including parents, students, educators, school administrators, and business and community leaders. With more than 25,000 local units, PTA flourishes in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Department of Defense schools in Europe and the Pacific. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who is concerned about the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.