Finch joins Foundation Wall of Fame

By Jeff Harrison
Midwest City Beacon

The Mid-Del Public Schools Foundation welcomed the newest member to its Wall of Fame.
James Finch was inducted into the Wall of Honor last week during the Foundation’s annual banquet at Rose State College.

Finch, a 1976 Del City High School graduate and longtime banking professional, was recognized for decades of service and commitment to Mid-Del schools and the foundation.

Presenter Jimmie Nolen, a former Mid-Del school board member, praised Finch’s dedication and character.

“He is a man of commitment. He is a man of character. He is a man of his word,” Nolen said. “He is a man that I’m extremely proud to call my friend.”

Finch has been involved with the Mid-Del Public Schools Foundation since its inception in 1999, serving as a trustee, treasurer and president. He and his wife, Cheryl, have attended every foundation banquet and made annual financial contributions for 27 years.

Finch reflected on the influence Mid-Del educators had on his life following the death of his father during his freshman year of high school.

“Teachers, administrators, coaches and counselors, they rallied around our family,” Finch said. “These were the earliest examples of what mentors and role models do … when they need to step in, stand in the gap and make a difference in the lives of young people.”

He said those experiences helped shape his lifelong passion for education and community investment.

“The investment in knowledge and education gives the best returns, turning ideas into reality,” Finch said.

Finch also emphasized the importance of supporting the foundation’s grant program.

“Our investment allows teacher innovation, the classroom grants,” he said. “Whether it’s STEM, literacy, or creative arts. Every student should have the opportunity.”

He encouraged continued community support for the foundation, noting its impact on generations of students.

“We need this foundation to be supported now more than ever,” Finch said. “Our investment allows our teachers and school sites the tools available to help students succeed and find their passion.”

The banquet also highlighted the foundation’s Big Idea Innovation Grant program, which provides funding for classroom projects across the district. Tissa King of Schwartz Elementary, Kenyelle Session of Midwest City Middle School and Sandi Teel of Mid-Del Technology Center spoke about their experiences with the grant program and its impact on the classroom during a panel discussion.

The event also included a silent auction and raffle for trips.