Shirlene Cook has lived in Beaumont for decades, retiring from the Beaumont Independent School District in 2007 after 30 years of service. Throughout her life and her career, Cook has served the community in many capacities – volunteering, fundraising for nonprofits, leading, teaching – and that service has continued on into her retirement.
Cook has battled racism and sexism, breaking down barriers segregating certain groups, but she says she is just doing what is right.