“We’re having a doughnut party!” shouted a kindergartner at Hyatt Park Elementary School.

The student was responding to the 30 dozen Krispy Kreme doughnuts delivered to the school by Columbia International University President Dr. Mark Smith and Santa’s Helpers (also known as The President’s Council). The holiday gesture, just a few days before Christmas, was part of CIU’s continuing outreach to the community.

Hyatt Park Elementary is located just off North Main Street in Columbia, less than five miles from the CIU campus. The principal is CIU alumna Dr. Dell Brabham, a 1995 graduate of CIU’s Master of Arts in Teaching Program, and a CIU adjunct professor.

As an added treat to the doughnuts, Smith and his helpers assisted the tiny tots in adjusting Krispy Kreme “soda-jerk” style hats, making sure they weren’t wearing them upside down. For the kindergarteners, the doughnuts were a mid-morning snack. The remaining doughnuts were saved for lunch dessert for the older students.   

“This was a wonderful surprise. I didn’t expect to see Dr. Smith,” Brabham said. “I just feel humbled that he took the time to come to our school and celebrate with our children because this is special — and the hats were an added surprise.”  

Before Smith and company exited the cafeteria door, the kindergarteners shouted “Thank you” in unison.

Read more about Dr. Dell Brabham and her work at Hyatt Park Elementary in Fall 2019 edition of CIU Today magazine.

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