Turquoise LeJeune Parker is a dedicated public school teacher in Durham, North Carolina, renowned for her commitment to combating student hunger. In 2015, she founded “Mrs. Parker’s Professors Foodraiser,” a nonprofit initiative aimed at providing food to students during school breaks when meal programs are unavailable. This program has grown significantly, now supporting over 5,000 students across 12 elementary schools in Durham.
Parker’s efforts have garnered national recognition. In 2021, she raised over $100,000 to purchase enough food to sustain students during the winter break, ensuring they had access to meals during the holiday season. Her unwavering dedication led to her receiving the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring her significant contributions to the community.
Beyond her philanthropic endeavors, Parker serves as the National Education Association (NEA) Director for North Carolina educators and holds the position of vice president of the Durham Association of Educators (DAE). Her leadership extends into her role as an educator, where she passionately advocates for her students’ well-being and academic success.
Parker’s work exemplifies the profound impact educators can have beyond the classroom, addressing critical issues like food insecurity and championing the needs of their communities.
