By Jaden Chiang
Last Thursday, June 2, Ms. Giannantonio’s Grade 12 Business Leadership students hosted the annual Business Banquet. For the first time post-lockdown, members from the St. Augustine community and beyond were able to attend what would be a momentous evening.
Over the past few months, a group of 60 students were hard at work planning the event. From food catering to event decor to gaining sponsors, each sub-committee worked fervently to make the night go off without a hitch. Ms. G’s room sure saw the effects of their planning, being filled to the brim with raffle prizes and more.
Proceeds from the event’s silent auctions and raffle prizes were chosen to support Sick Kids Foundation. Students, teachers, families, and community members pitched in, hoping to secure one of over a hundred prizes available. Some of the epic prizes included $150 worth of sweets from Main St. Unionville’s Sweetie Pie, restaurant gift certificates to The Keg and more, and exquisitely curated gift baskets. In the end, the night raised around $4500 for Sick Kids!
Guests were greeted at the front doors and walked across a yellow carpet and through the enchanting foyer setup, being able to enjoy the live acoustics of two St. A alumni. After they signed in, students at the cafetorium doors ushered the guests to their tables. Inside, the space was completely transformed with fairy lights, table arrangements, and a balloon arch.
Laura Del Rosso and Luke Marjeram emceed the night terrifically. The program started off with Joze Piranian, an Inspirational Speaker of the Year award winner and a living example of facing one’s fears. His presentation showed us how to be courageous and get past our own fears, and shared his experiences of being courageous despite having a stutter. Then, St. Augustine alumna and now Sick Kids ambassador, Isabella Lamanna, shared her touching experience with the foundation and living with muscular dystrophy. Next up was Laura Connor, a marketing strategist, speaker, and content creator, who spoke about the choices we have in our lives, and how to take advantage of opportunities. Following Laura were Victoria and Isabella Monopoli, two St. Augustine students and competitive dancers who put on a beautiful and powerful performance.
Closing the night’s entertainment were The Sleeping Dogs, who got the crowd going with their impressive hip hop routine. As the evening came to an end, Mr. Cocchetto and Ms. Giannantonio spoke, until Ms. G invited her students to join her on stage, who received erupting applause and a jubilant standing ovation.
St. Augustine was very excited to resume this incredible St. Augustine event, and cannot wait for the next one! Congratulations to the 2021-2022 Grade 12 Business Leadership students for a tremendous job well done!
Titan Times 