FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: WMRNAA@rainesnationalalumni.org

William M. Raines National Alumni Association Announces 2026 Strategic Vision and
Board Leadership Recommitment

JACKSONVILLE, FL — On January 10, 2026, the Board of Directors of the William M. Raines National Alumni Association (WMRNAA) convened for their annual leadership retreat to
establish a transformative strategic roadmap for the 2026 calendar year. Under the theme
“Continuing the Legacy, Building the Future,” the board reaffirmed its commitment to the
students and alumni of William M. Raines Senior High School.

Led by President Highsmith, the board reviewed a year of significant impact, including
$18,000 in scholarships awarded and expanded support for student general needs. The 2026 Strategic Plan focuses on five core pillars: increasing fundraising, enhancing global alumni visibility, forging business partnerships, expanding alumni representation through new chapters, and celebrating the historic accomplishments of the Raines community.
“Our mission as the WMRNAA is to ensure that the outstanding legacy of Raines High
School is not just remembered, but actively built upon,” said President Highsmith. “Today,
our board members stood together to charge ourselves with the duty of ‘Stepping Up and Following Through’ for our students and our alumni.”

Key initiatives for 2026 include:
• National Membership Drive: Launching officially on August 1st.
• Enhanced Digital Presence: A modernized website to streamline donor engagement and alumni networking.
• Community Partnerships: New collaborative efforts with the business community to provide students with resources.

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the WMRNAA remains a vital pillar of the Jacksonville
community. Alumni and supporters are encouraged to join the association and contribute to the scholarship fund by visiting rainesnationalalumni.org

About the WMRNAA:
The William M. Raines National Alumni Association was established to forge and
strengthen alumni relationships, assist students through scholarships and general needs, support, and build lasting partnerships that uphold the goodwill of William M. Raines
Senior High School.

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