According to longtime friend Dr. Marcia Conston, she always knew that Deloris Wedlaw would make an impact. They grew up together in Yazoo, MS, attending kindergarten at Ms. Ann Brooks’ little school building on Lamar Avenue. Those formative years – and a life-changing trip to Ghana – would make a lasting impression on Deloris Wedlaw. What she learned in that little school building grew a desire in her heart for her own school where she would be an educator. From Tougaloo College to Ghana, her path was marked by transformation, culminating in her embracing the name Mahari.
As it came to pass, Mahari and her husband, Azma Butler, founded The Learning Institute for Children in 1979. The school began as a preschool and kindergarten and later became known as ADHIAMBO School, expanding to include grades up to fifth. Forty-five years later, former students, parents, and supporters traversed to the Two Mississippi Museums to celebrate the school’s legacy and impact at the Inaugural All-Class Reunion on Friday, Aug. 29.
The tables, adorned with Kente cloth and authentic African art pieces from the Butlers’ personal collection, were on display. However, nothing could outshine the smiling faces from alumni of all ages. Everyone was eager to reconnect and reminisce with the privileged few who had been taught by Azma and Mahari. The crowd waited with baited breath for the couple’s arrival, and they entered the room to a standing ovation…