On March 4th, at 6:00 pm, Woodhaven High School transformed its auditorium and cafeteria into a vibrant hub of celebration and community spirit, hosting a memorable gala organized by the Black Student Alliance (BSA). The event, orchestrated under the leadership of BSA President Hailee Reddick, was a resounding success, earning high praise and enthusiastic reviews from all attendees.
The evening commenced with a captivating blend of artistic expression. The school’s jazz band set a lively tone, followed by a moving performance from the choir. The choir’s rendition of Andra Day’s “Rise Up” was particularly impactful. It featured powerful solos by Robert Chandler, Destiny Chapman, and Zaria Williams, each adding their unique voices to the song’s message of hope and resilience.
Adding to the event’s depth, a keynote speaker delivered an uplifting and sentimental speech that resonated deeply with the audience. The program also included two compelling poetry readings, one by Anyah Johnson and another by Hailee Reddick, further enriching the atmosphere with thought-provoking verses.
Beyond the performances, the gala fostered a sense of togetherness and camaraderie. Attendees enjoyed a delightful array of food, both homemade by talented students and catered to, adding a personal touch to the culinary experience. The Pop’n Sip Mobile bar provided refreshments, contributing to the celebratory ambiance.
The highlight of the evening was the awards ceremony, where members of the BSA were recognized for their contributions and achievements. The accolades were a testament to their hard work and dedication, inspiring others to strive for excellence.
When asked to rate the event on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest, students unanimously gave high marks, expressing their excitement and joy. Anthony Pizzimenti, a member of the jazz band, shared that his favorite part was “playing in the jazz band for these amazing people but also listening to the poetry, that part really moved me.” Latasha Kyle emphasized the inclusive nature of the event, noting that “My favorite part was more than just members of BSA coming, others wanted to show support to the group, which brought many friends together.”
Tyler Brownlee captured the essence of the gala, stating, “This gala was truly memorable for me because it brought together so many people in celebration and support of our community. The performances were inspiring, and the atmosphere was filled with joy and unity. It felt amazing to share those moments with friends and family, creating lasting memories. Plus, the delicious food and fun dancing just added to the overall experience. It was a night filled with love, laughter, and togetherness, which made it unforgettable!”
Robert Chandler expressed his enthusiasm for a potential repeat, saying, “Yes, I would because it was really fun- it was way more fun than I thought, so yeah I would go again if it was being held.” Davell Lochkart echoed this sentiment, remarking, “Yeah, it was really memorable for me because it brought me vibes of a cookout, and also reminded me of like, the family gatherings that we all have with our families.”
In conclusion, the Woodhaven High School BSA gala was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. The event not only showcased the talent and dedication of the BSA members but also fostered a sense of unity, celebration, and community spirit within the school. The positive feedback and enthusiastic responses from students indicate that this gala will be remembered as a highlight of the school year, setting a high standard for future events.
