After three decades of teaching students to find their voices, Detroit gospel artist and educator Mary Wynn is preparing to close one chapter of her career surrounded by the people whose lives she helped shape.
Wynn will mark her retirement from education with “Wynn-ing Legacy: 30 Years of Music, Memories and Milestones” on Saturday, July 18, at 6 p.m. at Central Baptist Church, 9620 Sorrento Ave. in Detroit.
The free celebration will bring together former students, colleagues, relatives and friends for an evening of gospel music, storytelling and reunions. Wynn, past students and special guests are expected to perform.
Wynn said she wanted the celebration to happen while she could experience it alongside the community that supported her journey.
“So often, people come together after it’s too late,” Wynn said. “I wanted something different. I want to see the faces, hear the voices and feel the love now.”
Wynn has spent 30 years working in education, including 25 years with Southfield Public Schools. She taught vocal music at Henry Ford High School, Thompson K-8 International Academy and Levey Middle School.
Her students earned Division I ratings and gold medals at choral festivals and performed in school productions of “The Wiz,” “Dreamgirls,” “Annie” and “Cinderella.” Wynn also introduced students to recording and video production, giving them opportunities to build skills and confidence onstage and behind the scenes.
Although she is leaving the classroom, Wynn said she plans to continue mentoring others while devoting additional time to performing and recording original music.
“Teaching has been a huge part of my life for 30 years,” Wynn said. “I still have a passion for helping people.”
Wynn’s career also extends into gospel music and ministry. She performed as a member of the Dorinda Clark-Cole Singers & Musicians Choir and has appeared at events including the Bobby Jones Gospel Retreat and Gospel Superfest. She has also shared stages with CeCe Winans and Shirley Caesar.
Wynn described the July celebration as a concert, family reunion and testimony to the role faith and music have played throughout her life.
The event is open to the public, but advance registration through Eventbrite is required.
