Parker, Sara, Bob and Cam Timken with Douglas W. Hamilton

Under bright sunny skies, Lawrence School presented Bloom, a memorable “in-person” event held at the school’s Upper School campus in Sagamore Hills.
More than 300 guests turned out for the event, which raised $400,000 for need-based, tuition assistance to help families find, and remain, at Lawrence.
Lawrence School, founded in 1969, is an independent day school serving students in kindergarten through grade 12 with learning differences and attention deficits.
Guests dressed in brightly colored, spring-like cocktail attire included trustees, parents, former parents and school alumni. They enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, as well as perusing silent auction items

Melissa Tullis, Katie Rios, Caroline Tullis

and taking part in a raffle to win $15,000.
Taste of Excellence caterers presented dinner served in the school’s gymnasium, which was beautifully transformed with centerpieces by Liz Leonard and decorations by Amanda Stern. Guests enjoyed a meal of sirloin with chimichurri sauce and bacon-wrapped scallops as well as Roma tomato stuffed with spinach, fontina cheese and breadcrumbs. The Lawrence School Choir provided entertainment.
Douglas W. Hamilton, head of school, gave a welcome address dressed as the character Mister Rogers, noting the excitement of being able to gather in person, as Bloom has been presented virtually the last couple

William Fudge III, Chelci Fudge and Greg and Amy Myers

of years. This year marked the 15th annual event.
“This evening is going to be about gratitude,” Mr. Hamilton said.
The benefit’s main sponsor was Jill Harrington, as well as Mario and Dana Morino and Rob and Trish Risman, among many other generous donors. The event was planned and coordinated by a volunteer advancement committee led by Amy Myers.
Lawrence School draws students from 71 different communities and has two campus locations. The lower school campus in Broadview Heights serves students in grades K-6 with the Upper School campus in Sagamore Hills serving students in grades seven to 12.
Lawrence has set the date for next year’s Bloom for May 6, 2023. STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY SUE REID