Google Leader Lilyn Hester and Durham Chamber CEO Geoff Durham Named Co-Chairs of 2026 Sole Purpose Sneaker Ball
Community leaders join forces to help raise $150,000 for school-based mental health and wellness initiatives benefiting Durham Public Schools students and educators.
Durham Public Schools Foundation (DPSF) and State Representative Zack Hawkins are proud to announce that Lilyn Hester of Google and Geoff Durham, President and CEO of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, will serve as Co-Chairs of the 2026 Sole Purpose Sneaker Ball, taking place Saturday, November 21, at the Sheraton Imperial RTP.
The annual fundraiser benefits the Zachari Hawkins Memorial Fund, established by Zack and Tracey Hawkins in memory of their son, Zachari, who passed away in 2022. The fund invests in school-based mental health, wellness, and belonging initiatives for Durham Public Schools students and educators.
Following an inaugural event that raised more than $124,000, this year's Sneaker Ball aims to raise $150,000 and welcome 250–300 guests. Funds raised last year are now being invested through DPSF's Innovation Grants, supporting school-based projects that strengthen student and educator well-being across the district.
The selection of Hester and Durham reflects a growing effort to engage Durham's business and technology communities in supporting public education.
A Durham Public Schools Graduate Giving Back
For Lilyn Hester, a Durham native, DPS graduate, and longtime technology leader at Google, serving as Co-Chair is an opportunity to give back to the school system that helped shape her future.
“As a proud Durham native and graduate of Durham Public Schools, I know firsthand the power of great teachers, supportive schools, and a community that believes in its children. DPS helped build the foundation for the opportunities I’ve had throughout my life and career, and I believe we all have a responsibility to give back,” said Hester.
“The Sole Purpose Sneaker Ball is both a celebration and an opportunity to invest in the mental health and well-being of our students and teachers, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive. I’m honored to serve as Co-Chair and encourage my colleagues across the technology and business communities to join us.”
Connecting Durham's Business Community to Public Education
Geoff Durham, President and CEO of the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce, brings a commitment to connecting the region's economic growth with investments in education and workforce development.
“Durham’s greatest asset has always been its people, and our future depends on how well we invest in the next generation. Strong public schools are essential to a strong workforce, a thriving economy, and a community where every child has the opportunity to succeed,” said Durham.
“The Sole Purpose Sneaker Ball gives our business community a meaningful opportunity to turn that commitment into action. I’m proud to serve as Co-Chair and invite businesses of every size to step forward, get involved, and help make a lasting difference.”
Honoring Zachari's Legacy
The Sole Purpose Sneaker Ball honors the life and legacy of Zachari Hawkins, whose love of sneakers and commitment to kindness continue to inspire the event.
“Tracey and I started this effort because we wanted Zachari’s life and the kindness he showed others to continue making a difference,” said Rep. Hawkins. “What began as a way to honor our son has grown into a community-wide commitment to supporting students and teachers when they need us most.
“Having Lilyn and Geoff join us as Co-Chairs is incredibly meaningful. Lilyn represents what is possible when we invest in our public schools, and Geoff understands that a strong business community and strong public schools go hand in hand. Together, they will help us bring more people and businesses to the table as long-term partners in the success of Durham’s children.”
A Signature Event With a Purpose
The 2026 Sole Purpose Sneaker Ball will bring the community together for an evening of celebration, student creativity, and fundraising. Guests are encouraged to pair formal or business attire with their favorite sneakers. The event will feature custom sneakers designed by DPS students, with selected designs included in a fundraising auction.
Proceeds will support the Zachari Hawkins Memorial Fund, expanding investments in school-based mental health, wellness, and belonging initiatives.
“Through the Zachari Hawkins Memorial Fund, we are able to turn community generosity into investments that support the mental health and well-being of students and educators across Durham Public Schools,” said James H. Perry, Executive Director of DPSF. “The partnership of leaders like Lilyn and Geoff demonstrates what's possible when our business community comes together to strengthen public education.”
Join Us at the 2026 Sole Purpose Sneaker Ball
Saturday, November 21, 2026
Sheraton Imperial RTP | Durham, North Carolina
5:30 PM
Whether you attend, become a sponsor, or make a gift, you can help expand access to mental health and wellness resources for Durham's students and educators.
Wear your favorite kicks. Make a gift. Support Wellness at DPS.
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