“The goal of this event was to be inclusive while recognizing the importance of strong male role models in our students’ lives,” said Principal Jennifer Duke. “Many of our students do not come from traditional family homes.  Students were able to invite a valued male guest (dad, uncle, brother, neighbor, coach, etc.).  We even had students attend without a male guest, and we worked to pair them with either male volunteers or other family guests.  Dr. Troy Nash spoke to our guests about grit and resilience, we had a photo booth, we raffled off prizes that were donated to both students and their male guest, and ended the evening with a DJ and dancing.  We had around 30 volunteers from the partnership to serve food, mingle with students, help with the raffle, and just overall help make it a wonderful environment.  We had around 225 students/male guests in attendance.  I received so much positive feedback from students and guests … we are excited to make this an annual event!”