Colleagues, community members and loved ones gathered Friday morning, June 27, 2025 to celebrate, remember and cherish the remarkable life and legacy of June DiPolito during the dedication of the High Hope Service Center in her name.
The event served as a powerful tribute—not only to a beloved friend to many in attendance, but to a woman whose life was defined by compassion, vision and an unwavering drive to service others. Born on June 3, 1947, in Mobile, Alabama, DiPolito devoted her life to supporting individuals facing mental health issues, development disabilities and substance use disorders.
Out of this deep passion to uplift and empower those in need, DiPolito founded the High Hope Service Center, a school for individuals with special needs. But High Hope wasn't just a school, it was a piece of DiPolito's heart constructed into the very root's of the schools history.
The event featured a podium at the front, where speakers sat under the cool shade of a tent, hearts on their sleeve as they spoke about their beloved friend and colleague. One by one, they shared stories of DiPolito's passion and lifelong dedication—pausing at times, to laugh through a favorite memory spent with her.
Two other tents were situated in front of the podium, where guests took their seats and listened—some even stood off to the side when seats weren't available. By the end of the speach, Dr. Cynthia Cone-Dekle, CEO of High Hope, presented a portrait unveiling and a bench in loving memory of DiPolito. Once the speeches concluded, guests stood around and talked among each other, speaking endearingly of DiPolito's accomplishments, dedication and all the silly moments in between.
Refreshments and snacks were offered as guests took the opportunity to tour the High Hope building—placards were pasted onto the wall with encouraging phrases such as "you can vote!" reminding attendees of High Hope that they were capable of doing anything everyone else could. On one wall, DiPolito's new portrait was freshly hung, her bright red lipstick that she loved so much matching the red coat she wore.
While the building retains its original name, the dedication serves as a lasting tribute to DiPolito's remarkable legacy.
"She is loved so much and it is so fitting that this is being named for her," said Gwen Skinner, a dear friend of DiPolito. "It will be a constant reminder of a pushy little blonde that was probably the strongest advocate for special needs populations."
DiPolito was a shining star to many, her light growing brighter with every life she touched—and even though she’s no longer physically present, that star has not dimmed—her presence still graces the very building she founded. According to one speaker, she was felt even during the ceremony itself—as the gentle breeze that swept through on a warm summer morning.