The temperature outside was frigid and the winds blustery, but yet, inside Roger C. Sullivan High School, the warmth of friendship and caring blanketed its rooms and hallways.
The Friends of Sullivan was once again hosting, for the eighth time, a Thanksgiving dinner and celebration for Sullivan students, staff and community friends. We can proudly say that it has now become a Rogers Park tradition.
Among our highlights was an outstanding program, designed by Sullivan faculty Josh Zepeda and Evelyn Levin.
The prayers: inspiring words from Al Goldberg (Rogers Park Builders Group), Cindra Hart (Sullivan faculty) and Spencer Pritchard (Syrian Community Network.)
Alderman Andre Vasquez (40th Ward), who chairs the City Council's Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights - delivered an inspiring keynote speech.
Two student speakers: Thianny Romero and Sebra Saad Allah, shared their impassioned and heartfelt stories and, in the tradition of Thanksgiving (and this event), told us what they are thankful.
Assistant Principal Leonel Gallegos shared his immigrant story - offering words of encouragement and guidance for students (and for the rest of us.)
Media coverage - For the 4th year in a row, we were delighted to host acclaimed SunTimes columnist Neil Steinberg - who, in recognition of the unique challenges faced by many Sullivan students, wrote a compelling column. The front page of that SunTimes edition included a large photo to draw attention to the article.
Many students and faculty were thrilled to have a chance to share their experiences with a prominent local journalist.
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