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WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (OCTOBER 5, 2026) — The Williamsport Area School District Education Foundation (WASDEF) hosted its fourth annual Cherry + White Appreciation Night on September 30 at the Michael Ross Event Center, bringing together educators and community partners for an evening dedicated to celebrating WASD educators and supporting innovative learning opportunities for students.

The evening featured the recognition of this year’s Williamsport Area High School Distinguished Alumni and a keynote presentation by Kim Bearden, co-founder of the Ron Clark Academy, nationally recognized educator and author.

WASDEF Vice-President Jonah Milliken presented this year’s Distinguished Alumni alongside WASDEF Executive Director, Taylor Chrisenberry and WASD Superintendent, Dr. Tim Bowers: Dr. Robert J. Marsh, Jr. ’89, Shannon Synoracki ’09, Spencer Sweeting ’01 and Alisha Chen ’17. The recipients were recognized for their professional accomplishments, service and contributions to their communities.

Bearden delivered the evening’s keynote, sharing insights on the six principles of effective communication. Through her work at the Ron Clark Academy, Bearden has become a nationally recognized voice in education, inspiring educators to challenge traditional approaches and help students reach their full potential. Books were provided free of charge for teachers in attendance thanks to EQT, the evening’s book sponsor.

The Foundation also celebrated the educators who bring innovative ideas to life in WASD classrooms. During the evening, WASDEF awarded three teacher mini-grant raffle prizes of $500, $1,000 and $1,500 to support classroom initiatives. Additionally, the school building with the highest attendance at the event received a $1,500 grant to support its students and staff.

Cherry + White Appreciation Night provides an opportunity to recognize the dedication of WASD educators while highlighting the generosity of donors, sponsors and community partners who help expand educational opportunities throughout the district.

WASDEF extends its sincere appreciation to the evening’s sponsors: EQT, Baker Tilly, C&N, BAYADA, KBF Print Technology, the Staiman family, New Trail Brewing and Alabaster Coffee. Special thanks also go to EQT for sponsoring the books provided at no cost to the teachers in attendance.

About the Williamsport Area School District Education Foundation

The Williamsport Area School District Education Foundation is a nonprofit affiliate of the Williamsport Area School District. WASDEF facilitates charitable giving and permanent legacies in educational innovation, the arts, athletics and scholarships, helping enhance classrooms, inspire futures and provide unique learning opportunities for students.

For more information about the Foundation and its work, visit www.wasdeducationfoundation.org.

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