Collinsville High School BSU presents at Gospel Music Hall of Fame Induction

Mark B. Skertich, Superintendent | Collinsville Community Unit School District 10

By S. B. Martino

Sep 15, 2025

The Collinsville High School Black Student Union (BSU) was invited to serve as award presenters at the 2025 Gospel Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, held on September 6, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri.

The invitation highlighted the efforts of CHS students in promoting cultural awareness and community engagement. The Gospel Music Hall of Fame recognizes the history of gospel music and honors individuals who have influenced the genre, focusing on preserving African American history through music.

“This was a tremendous honor for our students,” said JoAnna Kelly, sponsor of the CHS Black Student Union. “Gospel music is deeply rooted in the African American experience, often serving as a vessel for passing down stories of struggle, resilience and hope. To have our students participate in this historic event not only validates their efforts but also connects them with a broader cultural legacy.”

At the ceremony, BSU members joined other guests and artists to present awards to key figures in gospel music. The event received national attention.

“This experience was incredibly meaningful for our students,” said JoAnna Kelly, advisor of the Black Student Union. “Being part of such a historic ceremony deepened their appreciation for gospel music’s cultural impact and showed them the power of their own voices in continuing this rich legacy.”

Members expressed gratitude for being able to interact with prominent individuals from gospel music and represent Collinsville High School at a major event.

Collinsville High School is part of Collinsville Community Unit School District 10, which serves Madison and St. Clair counties and includes several elementary and middle schools along with CHS itself https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. According to state data, the district has over 400 teachers with an average salary above $60,000; most are women https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. The student population is diverse: about 56 percent White, 14 percent Black, and 24 percent Hispanic https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/. In 2020, per-student spending reached nearly $17,000 across the district https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/.