Tonight, our school board unanimously approved the naming of the Jefferson High School auditorium in honor of the late City Councilwoman Gwendolyn “Gwen” Henderson.
A proud West Tampa native and Jefferson alumna, Ms. Henderson was a lifelong educator, mentor, and fierce advocate. She returned to her alma mater as a teacher and poured her heart into initiatives that uplifted students and celebrated culture, confidence, and community.
From launching girl empowerment programs to founding the Black English Bookstore, her impact reached far beyond the classroom. She most recently served as a City of Tampa councilwoman.
Now, the very auditorium where she once walked as a student and inspired others as an educator will forever bear her name — a lasting tribute to a life dedicated to service, learning, and love.