February 13, 2012

DESA Celebrates 26th Anniversary; Reflects on Milestones and Philanthropy to Local Schools

DESA has surpassed a quarter-century of success, reaching its 26th business anniversary on February 14th. The company is celebrating by reflecting on the year-long campaign implemented for its 25th anniversary – the '25 cents or 25 dollars' program, which raised a total of $3,000, split between two schools, Hyatt Park Elementary and L.W. Conder Integrated Arts Magnet School. The campaign collected funds throughout the 25th operating year from DESA's staff, clients, partners and friends, and took in its final donations at the end of 2011. Checks were delivered to each school after students returned from winter break.

Hyatt Park Elementary School Principal Elizabeth Eason said of the campaign, "We were proud to be part of this fundraising initiative. It came as no surprise to me that DESA would celebrate its 25th anniversary by giving back to the community. Their passion for empowering businesses and schools shows clearly in their now 26 year history and it is always a joy to work with DESA, both professionally and personally." 

L.W. Conder Elementary School Principal Dr. Shirley Watson agreed with Eason, adding, "Many students from surrounding schools have benefited from DESA's educational fundraising. While the '25 cents or 25 dollars' campaign benefited our school directly, it also shows the surrounding community that through dedication and drive, small businesses can have a big impact on education through fundraising and support."

Diane Sumpter, founder, president and CEO, spoke of the company's anniversaries: "Since the firm's launch in 1986, DESA has been synonymous with community outreach and minority business growth, in addition to our five lines of business services which include: conference and event management; construction management; marketing and communications; administrative services and global business services." Sumpter continued, "Our philanthropy efforts at DESA have always been heavily focused in education and fundraising for local schools. Education is at the forefront of all of our community outreach goals and I'm always moved to see students embrace education and any extra opportunities afforded to them by outside donations."

She concluded by saying, "It is a joy to now enter into our 26th year. I work with an excellent team and have no doubt DESA's success will continue based on their hard work, expertise and dedication to our clients."