Rooted in Generosity

Steward’s annual Clips for Cancer fundraiser, sponsored by the School’s Cancer Awareness Club, was filled with Spartan spirit. On February 22, volunteers stepped up to have their hair cut or their heads shaved onstage in the Lora M. Robins Theatre. Amid the audience's cheers and applause (and a little bit of gentle ribbing), the newly shorn volunteers smiled as emcee (and Upper School Science Teacher) Eric Hopp, along with Cole Tyler ’23, thanked them for their generosity. On a giant screen, a tally of the money raised was updated every few minutes. The funds will help support the ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation, and the hair will be given to Planet Hair, which makes wigs for children undergoing chemotherapy. 

The School’s inaugural Cancer Awareness Club fundraiser took place in 2015 when Callen Smith ’20, inspired by a friend’s cancer diagnosis, spearheaded the event. Over the years, Steward has raised a total of more than $25,000 to benefit ASK and other charities. This year’s total of nearly $5,000 is a testimony to our community’s commitment to helping others.  

Generous Volunteers
Thank you to the following Spartans who had their hair cut at the event: School Nurse Becca Heck, Harper Heck ’30, Kayla Galpern ’28, and Auxiliary Programs Assistant Sara Willhite. And thank you to the bold Spartans who had their heads shaved: Oliver Bor ’24, Nick Damodar ’28, Paul Gresock ’27, Hunter Killian ’27, Tommy Magnano ’23, Watson Mundy ’30, and Julian Raffenot ’23. A special shoutout to Charlie Ventura ’23, who donated hair and had his head shaved!

A Cut Above the Rest
A hearty Spartan thank you to the professional stylists who shared their time and talent at the Clips for Cancer event: Courtney Brooks (of Courtney Brooks Salon) and Marrissa Freeman (of Neon Oasis Salon). In addition, many thanks to Steward teachers Claire Bailey, Melissa Calkins, and Emily Oliff, who served as head shavers. 

The Cancer Awareness Club
The Cancer Awareness Club, 25 members strong, meets twice a month on campus. In addition to Clips for Cancer, the club raises funds through bake sales and by participating in 5K walks. Upper School School Mathematics Teacher Jen Maitland and Upper School Science Teacher Leslie Kovach sponsor the Club, which is led by Amelia Ann Callis ’23 (president) and Ashley Compton ’24 (vice president). Both Ms. Maitland and Ms. Kovach are cancer survivors. 

“This club has a special place in my heart,” said Ms. Maitland. “The club members were excited about making this Clips for Cancer event the best that it could be.” Noted Ms. Kovach, “It is always heartwarming and gratifying to see the efforts of the club receive such enthusiastic support. “We invite all Upper Schoolers to join this fun, hardworking group!”