Events

May 7, 2024

CLS Class of 2024 presentation of gift checks to Lafayette High School and Berkeley Middle School Care Closets at Lafayette High School

Graduates of the Community Leadership Service Class of 2024, a biennial program sponsored by the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce, recently donated $2,650 to "Care Closets" at Lafayette High School and Berkeley Middle School in partnership with Bruton Parish. An additional $500 was donated by the CLS Board to further support these two schools in meeting vital needs of their students.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Elwen Herron (front row, center) attended the check presentation on May 7 with Principals (center left) Yiotis Tsigaridas (BMS) and (center right) Paul Rice (LHS), along with (front row, third from left) Meghan Brewer, Director of Children's and Youth Ministries (Bruton Parish); Selena Chamblee, M.Ed., Student Achievement Coach (BMS); Suzie Sylvester, ESL Teacher (LHS); and (second row, second from right) Jennifer Marzana, ESL Teacher (LHS). Representing the CLS Board were (front row, right) Melinda Morgan (Curriculum Chair); (second row, fourth from right) Barbara McFarland (Curriculum Vice Chair); and (third from right) Eloise Branden (Board Chair).

Throughout the 11-week program, our class engaged with more than 100 leaders from key sectors, including government, military, tourism and economic development. During the education session, we learned that local student needs for food and clothing have increased significantly in recent years.

While the Care Closet model has expanded community-wide, these critical needs persist. In response, our classmates unanimously selected the program at these two schools for our inaugural project. We look forward to further opportunities to serve and make a meaningful difference in the community.

Community Leadership Service Class of 2024: Leisa Schultz, Robin Sanford and Joe Moore (event coordinators); Linda Bedker, Carolyn Campbell, Tanya Fisher, Connie Matthews Harshaw, Kathy Howell, Steve Jasper, David Martin, Bob Mirel, Eileen Murray, Patti Ralabate, Jill Ramsaur, Wendy Ruffle, Cindy Sherwood, Griff Steel, Terry Weisz, Ric Zakour