Canyon Crest Academy Foundation hosts reception celebrating mural, opens new effort
The Canyon Crest Academy Foundation recently hosted a dedication ceremony and reception celebrating the newly installed Raven’s Challenge mural.
The event honored and thanked more than 50 families who had generously given a minimum of $1,500 to the 2013-2014 Raven’s Challenge Campaign, which raised money to help fund the many programs supported by the CCA Foundation.
Among those present at the dedication were SDUHSD Board Member Amy Herman, County Supervisor Dave Roberts, Principal Karl Mueller, Vice Principals Jeff Copeland and Bernard Steinberger. Also in attendance were Jessica Matthes, CCA Art instructor and EVA (Envision Visual Arts) Conservatory Supervisor; Amber Irwin, visiting artist who oversaw the production of the mural; and Maya Lin-Bronner, the student whose mural design was selected by the EVA students to become the artwork adorning the school.
Supervisor Roberts, in his remarks, shared his admiration for CCA. He commended the unique programs offered at the school, which are supported by the CCA Foundation, and include the opportunity for students to work with professionals in their fields of interest. “The mural,” he said, “is a great example of the collaboration between a master artist and students.”
Guests were treated to a performance of songs from the musical “Firsts,” which was written by CCA junior Annika Patton and CCA alumna Emily Laliotis. The musical was written, Mueller explained, after the students attended a master class at CCA with a visiting director. The director inspired the students to write their own musical, which was subsequently performed this past summer at the Fringe Festival. In the true spirit of the circle of giving, the students decided to make a donation to the CCA Foundation, which had sponsored the visiting director.
Foundation President Amy Caterina said that the community will have a new opportunity to support the foundation while helping to beautify the school. The “Catch the Wave of Giving” campaign was announced at the mural dedication ceremony. Besides raising money for the foundation, the campaign will result in the installation of a sculpture that is being created by EVA students. The sculpture and underwater scene will be illuminated by LED lights powered by solar panels.
The night belonged to the students and faculty who created the new mural, and to the generous supporters of the CCA Foundation. In thanking the crowd, Caterina remarked, “Everyone, from CCA visitors to the patrons of the shopping center that is going to open across the street, will be able to see this mural and get a sense of the magic that happens at this school.”
The Canyon Crest Foundation is a parent-led 501(c)3 providing fantastic opportunities across academics, athletics, and the arts, in order to fulfill its mission to enrich the experience of every student, every day. Your tax-deductible donation to the CCA Foundation is vitally needed. Donate online at www.canyoncrestfoundation.org.