Dedication of the J.J. Corbett Media Center at Union Academy (April 20 at 8:30 a.m.)

Union Academy will host a ceremony on Wednesday (April 20) to dedicate the school’s media center in honor of Jordan Jerome “J.J.” Corbett.

Earlier this year, the Polk County School Board voted unanimously to bestow this honor upon Mr. Corbett, who turns 100 in November.

This is the latest accolade for Mr. Corbett, who has a lifetime of impressive accomplishments. During World War II, he served as one of the Army’s first Black paratroopers, and went on to become a math teacher and renowned track coach at his alma mater, Union Academy. Mr. Corbett also taught and coached at Bartow High after integration, and spent 12 years as a member of the school board.

Wednesday’s dedication will begin at 8:30 a.m.

Union Academy is located at 1795 E. Wabash St. in Bartow.

News media are invited to attend. RSVPs are not necessary; however, they’re appreciated for planning purposes. You can RSVP by emailingjason.geary@polk-fl.net.