Board Chair Tim Matthews introduced the honorees and reflected on the purpose of the Wall of Leadership and Service.
"The Wall of Leadership and Service was created to recognize people whose leadership goes beyond a title or a position, people who see a need, step up, and make a difference in the lives of others," Matthews said. "These individuals represent what it means to lead by serving, to give back, and to make our community a better place for others."
Polly Long: Creating Opportunities and Opening Doors
For more than 50 years, Polly Long has dedicated herself to creating opportunities and improving the lives of students, families, and community members.
Throughout her career and community service, Long has consistently recognized possibilities where others may have seen obstacles. She has connected students and families with employment, education, food, shelter, community resources, and opportunities to build skills and confidence.
Her work has helped create programs and initiatives including the Blue Bear Cafe, Blue Bear Bakery, Blue Bear Bus, YESurry, and Somos Uno. These efforts have provided students with hands-on experiences while connecting them with the broader community and opening doors to future opportunities.
Perhaps the greatest measure of Long's impact can be found in the stories of the students she has served. Former students frequently credit her with believing in them, encouraging them, and helping them find a path forward.
"Polly has spent her life reminding our students that where they start does not have to determine where they finish," Matthews said. "She has connected people to jobs, education, food, shelter, resources, and, perhaps most importantly, hope."
Matthews noted that Long's influence extends far beyond the programs she has helped create.
"She shows up for students. She shows up for families. She shows up for this community," he said. "Polly, thank you for showing us what leadership looks like when it comes from the heart."
Larry Davis: Preparing Students for Life Beyond the Classroom
Larry Davis dedicated 43 years to Mount Airy City Schools, leaving a lasting mark on Career and Technical Education, student opportunities, professional development, and community partnerships.
Throughout his career, Davis worked to ensure students had opportunities to gain real-world skills and experiences that would prepare them for life beyond high school. He developed partnerships with local businesses and industries, created internship opportunities, introduced new technology into classrooms, and helped students explore career pathways.
His leadership contributed to opportunities and programs involving HOSA, the Career Cafe, Richard Childress Racing, drones, and other innovative experiences designed to connect classroom learning with the world beyond school.
Davis was also recognized for his ability to develop and support others. Colleagues describe his leadership as grounded in integrity, humility, and a genuine concern for students and educators. He mentored teachers and leaders, supported professional growth, and consistently looked for ways to help others succeed.
His contributions have been recognized at the state level, including the Trailblazer Award and the Order of the Long Leaf Pine.
Even after 43 years of service to Mount Airy City Schools, Davis continues to support the Granite Bear community, including volunteering at athletic events and helping in the concession stand.
"Perhaps one of the greatest measures of a leader is not what they accomplish themselves, but how many other people are better because they had the opportunity to work alongside them," Matthews said.
He also recognized Davis's continued commitment to the school system and community.
"Larry didn't serve Mount Airy City Schools because of a title. He served because he cared about our students, our staff, and this community," Matthews said. "Larry, thank you for showing us that true leadership isn't about standing above others; it is about helping others reach their full potential."
A Legacy of Leadership and Service
Long and Davis join the individuals previously recognized on the Mount Airy City Schools Wall of Leadership and Service. Their induction reflects the purpose of the Wall: to honor people whose influence can be seen not only in what they accomplished, but in the opportunities they created and the people they helped along the way.
"These two individuals have made a lasting difference in our schools and in our community," Matthews said. "Their impact will continue through the students whose lives they changed, the people they connected, and the many others who have learned from their example of what it truly means to serve."
Mount Airy City Schools congratulates Polly Long and Larry Davis on their induction into the Wall of Leadership and Service and thanks them for the many years they have dedicated to helping others learn, grow, and succeed.