Spring Arrives at Ellis!

Ellis
May 12
3 min read

The annual Ellis Spring Social on May 1 was a smashing success! The space was transformed into a springtime wonderland adorned with bright colors, handcrafted student artwork, and eye-catching “140th” numbers to honor Ellis’s remarkable anniversary year. Over one hundred guests joined us for an unforgettable evening of music, prizes, delicious food, and heartfelt storytelling. Stunning floral arrangements, generously created by Ellis parent Morgan DesPrez, filled the room with the beauty and spirit of the season.

Lauren Cook, Ellis CEO, Ashley White and Winston Bodrick, event co-chairs

A lineup of prizes generated buzz throughout the night, with attendees eagerly purchasing tickets for a chance to win gift baskets, local goodies, and experience packages. The standout prize was exclusive tickets to the Nutcracker, which were available only to those in the room that night. Guests also tried their luck at our popular Wine Grab, where they could select a surprise bottle, all donated by Ruby Wines and Jill O'Neil. Of course, no celebration is complete without great food. Guests savored delectable Italian appetizers courtesy of MIDA, adding flavor and flair to the evening.

Our wonderful co-chairs, Winston Bodrick and Ashley White, welcomed the attendees and introduced Ellis CEO Lauren Cook, who shared Ellis’s mission and its profound impact on the community. The real highlight of the evening was our incredible guest speaker Kalicia Sears, Assistant Director of Infant and Toddler Education at 58 Berkeley. A devoted mother, passionate educator, and student currently working toward her Bachelor's degree, Kalicia took the stage and quickly captured the room with her authenticity and grace. With a voice full of warmth and humor, she shared glimpses into her daily life – juggling the demands of parenthood, professional leadership, and academic studies — and reflected on how each role informs and strengthens the others.

Her personal stories underscored just how crucial the early years are in shaping a child's future. From a toddler’s first steps to a child's graduation at Ellis, Kalicia painted a picture of the transformative journey educators go on with their students. She described educators as “architects of the future,” perfectly summarizing the pivotal role of teachers in setting our students up for success. Her story and the beautiful manner in which she delivered it left a lasting impression on the guests, reminding them of the real reason why they were at this event: the children and those who care for them.

With the help of our supporters, we raised over $30,000 for Ellis – surpassing our goal! The true success of the evening wasn’t measured just in funds raised – it was in the connections formed, the stories shared, and the collective energy of a community united by a shared purpose. From the volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, to the local businesses who donated prizes, to each guest who purchased a raffle ticket or raised a glass in support, their involvement made this night unforgettable. This event would not have been possible without the hard work of our host committee members, who put so much effort into planning and executing such a beautiful night. We are profoundly grateful for their continued support, and we hope they left the event feeling inspired, hopeful, and proud of what we can achieve together.

Thank you to the Spring Social Host Committee:

Winston Bodrick and Ashley White, co-chairs

Alexandra Carlson

Keri Charles

Jackie Deschamps

Morgan DesPrez

Bill Fris

Jessica Grande

Ben Krass

Kim Lucas

Elizabeth Mendelsohn

Jock Payten