On Saturday, February 15, 2025, Northeastern Adventist Academy, Westchester Campus (NAAWC), held an Evening of Elegance banquet to assist in raising funds to restore its gymnasium. The facility has been inoperable for years, and soon, due to recent repairs, the students will be able to attend their physical education classes, eat lunch, and kick off many other programs in the comfort of a newly renovated gymnasium.
The school’s principal, Dr. Raymond Dixon, gave an overview of the evening’s program and history, inviting attendees to support Christian education. NAAWC students showcased their talents as they led out in the school mission statement, poem, Bible text, school song, and the Black National Anthem.
Pictured above – Dr. Raymond Dixon, principal (left) and Jenesse Linton, treasurer (right).
Andrea Stephens, event organizer, alumna, and parent, along with Jenesse Linton, treasurer of NAAWC, presented the evening’s objectives. It was an evening of fun and praise as the Perpetual Praise Group conveyed an important message through liturgical dance.
Nonetheless, the highlight of the evening was not the food, but the NAAWC Ensemble. You could hear each instrument playing its part.. saxophone, trombone, violin, guitar, keyboard, drum set, and conga drum. It was an outstanding performance!
Pictured above – Students showcasing their talents.
Dr. Nicardo Delahaye, Executive Secretary of Northeastern Conference, and T. Basil Sturrup, Pastor of Mount Vernon Seventh-day Adventist Church brought greetings. Both pastors congratulated the school for organizing the event and commended the principal, staff, and school board for their commitment to the RocWest Area School. They also highlighted the importance of Adventist Christian Education and the need to support the schools financially. During his remarks, Pastor Sturrup challenged everyone in the room to make a donation before the event was over, and he encouraged each donor to find other donors to join them in giving to this worthy cause.
Pictured above – ( l-r) Dr. Nicardo Delahaye, Executive Secretary, Northeastern Conference and T. Basil Sturrup, Senior Pastor, Mt. Vernon Seventh-Day Adventist Church giving remarks at the banquet.
A delightful and elegant dinner was served and as individuals ate, the Nostalgic Band entertained them. After dinner, several individuals were honored for their outstanding work in helping NAAWC. The Assistant Principal, Jessica Myers, expressed gratitude to everyone who assisted in making the event possible.
Written by Madison Wheatle, NAAWC Class of 2024
Photo Credits: Renee Nixon Photography and Jacqueline Hewan
