Thousands Attends Annual Morningside Monarch High Alumni Association Reunion In Inglewood

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By Gloria Zuurveen, Editor-in-Chief

INGLEWOOD—What a beautiful day in the neighborhood—and especially in the parks of Inglewood. It was that sunny California day that Frankie Beverly, leading with Maze, expressed in song when he sang, “Look at California.” Well, in Inglewood on Saturday, August 16, it was just one of those days that allowed children and families to go out and play. A big salute goes out to the Inglewood Department of Parks and Recreation for the joy it brings to residents’ faces.

From the spacious Edward Vincent Park right off Centinela, not far from Florence Avenue, the Morningside Monarch High Alumni Association (MMAA) gathered in a strong force of unity. Their annual reunion was a sight to see—each year featuring themes from the 1970s through the 2000s. This year’s creativity shined with one group embracing a Hawaiian style while another displayed a classy red-and-white ensemble accented with black and silver. From the entrance to the exit, the event was festive, and the DJ kept the beats flowing, making you want to turn back for more. The dignitaries were on hand as well. Fourth District Councilwoman Dionne Faulk was honored as an Honorary Monarch for her unwavering support and advocacy. Her presence has greatly impacted the organization, and the MMAA expressed appreciation for her grace, integrity, and dedication. “Standing by the MMAA,” they declared, “this honor is a testament to her diligence and dedication to public service as she continues to let her light shine.” A Certificate of Appreciation was also presented to Brandon Myers, Board Member of the Inglewood Unified School District (IUSD). And, as always, Mayor James T. Butts, Jr. was present when it came to celebrating in Inglewood. Wearing a Monarch letter jacket with pride, he too was recognized and honored by the MMAA. The association praised his leadership, vision, and encouragement of community use of facilities such as Edward Vincent Park, which boasts numerous recreational amenities. The park’s design was credited in part to the work of Boytrese Osias, Senior Engineer in the City of Inglewood Public Works Department.

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The 2025 reunion was powerful, with over one thousand Monarchs showing the strength of unity when a community works in agreement. The gathering set a national model that, as many attendees said, “could actually be bottled.” The Monarch brand—born and raised in Inglewood—carries the intent to keep culture alive, passing its message on to the next generation. This is not the first time the MMAA has made history. Not long ago, at Morningside High School, this dedicated alumni group—through a partnership with the Los Angeles Clippers—funded and presented letter jackets to the last graduating class of Morningside High. That moment was deeply symbolic, ensuring the final Monarch students received a significant keepsake of their legacy. The MMAA leadership team for 2025 includes: Donald Weathington (’84), President; Gregory Johnson (’74), Vice President; Lisa Draper-Jones (’84), Secretary; Adriana Ricketts (’79), Treasurer/Board Member; Cheryl Shaw Williams (’79), Co-Treasurer/Board Member; Elizabeth Rackley (’75), Parliamentarian; Ta Launa Beverly (’79), Chairperson of Activities; Cinder Eller-Kimbell (’88), Chairperson/Community Liaison; Laurence Spencer (’84), Chairperson/Athletic Commissioner; Mario A. Sanchez (’99), Chairperson; Sabrina Dominick Brown (’80), Committee Member 2025; Shante Mason (’87), Committee Member 2025; and Valerie Lathern (’79), Board Member. On August 16, 2025, the Monarch spirit rose high in the heart of Inglewood—a city once written off as “ashes,” now standing tall as an international destination. Like a phoenix rising, Inglewood, now with committed servants like members of the MMAA, is rising higher than ever. And in doing so, this phenomenal group continues to keep this body “fitly framed together” and ensures the Monarch legacy continues to shine.