Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker presented actor, producer, and comedian Quinta Brunson with a key to the city on Wednesday during a heartfelt ceremony at Andrew Hamilton School — Brunson’s alma mater and the inspiration behind her hit series “Abbott Elementary.”
Standing before family, former teachers, and classmates, Brunson accepted the symbolic key with humor, joking, “What does it open?” But her message soon turned serious, using the occasion to champion public education, teachers, and the transformative power of the arts.
A new mural titled Blooming Features, designed by artist Athena Scott, now wraps the school’s exterior in vibrant color. Created with input from students and staff, the mural celebrates the real-life community rather than the show’s fictional characters. Brunson explained that she rejected ABC’s original design proposal that featured the show’s actors, insisting, “You don’t need to see famous people on the wall. You need to see you.”
Her decision, she said, came from childhood memories of murals seen on subway rides — including one of her teachers — that instilled a sense of hope. “Even if it makes a difference for just one child, that one child matters,” she said.
The ceremony also honored Joyce Abbott, the teacher who inspired the show’s school name, and other influential educators in Brunson’s life. Jane Golden, executive director of Mural Arts Philadelphia, praised the tribute, noting Philadelphia’s national reputation for public art. She emphasized how murals, like the one at Hamilton, give neighborhoods access to meaningful, community-rooted artwork.
Brunson’s recognition not only celebrates her creative achievements but also highlights the enduring influence of public education and the importance of visibility and representation in the arts.
Swifteradio.com
