The Founder
In February 2000, Elbert "Lou" Irvin, founded and was President of
the Greater New England Alliance of Black School Educators (GNEABSE)
and Director of Multicultural Education for the Manchester Public
Schools. He passed away October 6, 2000, following a brief illness. In 2024
GNEABSE’s name was changed to the Greater Hartford Alliance of Black School Educators (GHABSE.)
He was a friend, mentor, role model, advocate and educator: Mr. Irvin filled all these roles, completely. As a passionate and dedicated educator, Mr. Irvin devoted the last 20 years of his professional life to promoting diversity and enhancing multicultural education in Connecticut. He organized a tour of historically black colleges and universities for high school students who were preparing for their college education, founded the Greater New England Alliance of Black School Educators, and initiated the Celebrating Your Commitment Conference to welcome newly employed minority teachers.
Mr. Irvin touched many lives by helping students to reach their potential and realize their dreams. His high expectations and friendship caused many students to teach in Connecticut after their college education.
He envisioned the conference as a step toward establishing a statewide support network for new minority teachers. He rightly believed that increased minority teacher recruitment and retention activities would enhance the quality and standards of education for all children in Connecticut's public schools.
The Connecticut State Department of Education and the Greater New England Alliance of Black School Educators dedicated the conference to Mr. Elbert 'Lou" Irvin in memory of his contribution to diversity and multicultural education in Connecticut
History
TBD
Mission
The mission of the Greater Hartford Alliance of Black School
Educators(GHABSE) is to promote and facilitate the education of all
students, Black and Brown students in particular. Additionally, it
seeks to establish a coalition of Black educators and others directly
or indirectly involved in the educational process. Moreover, it seeks to
create a forum for the exchange of ideas and strategies as well as
improve educational opportunities. Finally, it seeks to identify and
develop Black professionals who will assume leadership positions in
education who will eventually influence public policy as it concerns
the education of Black and Brown students.
Presidents message
Welcome, and thank you for visiting the official website of the Greater Hartford Alliance of Black School Educators (GNEABSE). It is an honor to serve as President of this dynamic organization—an affiliate of the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE)—committed to advancing the academic success of Black and Brown students throughout the Greater Hartford area.
GHABSE is a collective of dedicated educators, including teachers, administrators, superintendents, and supporters from the corporate and institutional sectors. While we advocate for the academic achievement of all students, our mission places a special focus on African American children who have historically been underserved in the educational system.
Our work is grounded in improving the educational experiences and outcomes of African American youth through culturally responsive teaching, motivational strategies, and programs that inspire excellence. We are committed to raising attendance, engagement, and achievement levels by promoting innovative approaches that affirm and empower our students.
Our initiatives span professional development, educational strategy sharing, local conferences, tutoring and coaching sessions, training workshops, scholarship programs, recognition events, policy advocacy, and more. We are especially proud to provide scholarships to Black students attending Connecticut colleges who are majoring—or planning to major—in Education.
This website serves as a window into our mission, our programs, and the values that drive us. Here, you will find news updates, resources, and opportunities to engage with our work. Whether you're a member, a partner, or a visitor, we encourage you to connect with us—share your concerns, offer new ideas, and join us in shaping a more equitable educational landscape.
Thank you again for visiting. We look forward to your support and collaboration.
Warm regards,
Dr. Geraldine Williams McHugh
President, GHABSE
Former president
TBD
OFFICERS
PRESIDENT
RECORDING SECRETARY
VICE PRESIDENT
Dr. Geraldine
McHugh
VICE PRESIDENT
RECORDING SECRETARY
VICE PRESIDENT
Annette Shack
RECORDING SECRETARY
RECORDING SECRETARY
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
Laurie Marie
Cabral
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
Barbara Smith
TREASURER
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
TREASURER
Norma Cherry
HISTORIAN
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
TREASURER
Dr. Koren Paul
National Alliance of Black School Educations
Additional Information
TBD
