Parents took a page out of their students’ playbook by trading stilettos for sneakers at the 23rd annual Night of the Dragon fundraiser in March. The annual event, hosted by the Maggie Walker Governor’s School Foundation, embraced a playful new theme: Sneaker Ball.
Held in the The Faison Center’s Flo and Tony Guzman Community Center, the fundraiser proved that a little creativity (and a lot of elbow grease) can go a long way. “It was a very big success,” said Veronica Chornodolsky, event chair for the second year and Foundation board vice chair . “We hit all the marks we aim for each year: a welcoming venue, accessible ticket pricing, vibrant atmosphere and a smooth night-of experience.”
That “smooth experience” was anything but simple behind the scenes, which was DIY from setup to centerpieces. “We were our own staffing,” said Chornodolsky, who has a senior and freshman at the school. “Tables, chairs, decor – everything was volunteer-powered.”
By handling more of the event production, more money raised goes directly into supporting the margin of excellence at the school, according to Ginger O’Neil, the Foundation’s executive director.
The Foundation grossed more than $80,000, which represented a post-pandemic high and one of the top years in recent history. A more intimate venue this year also meant a slightly smaller group of attendees, which totaled about 190 people coming from all 14 school districts that send students to Maggie Walker.
Those guests were treated to student performances by the Maggie Steppers and seniors Lily Stemhagen and Luna Forlano, who sang a pair of duets.
Alumni and parent partnerships added flavor and flair: Hardywood Park Craft Brewery (co-owned and run by Maggie Walker parents) donated beer and cider, an alum and owner of Carazón Cake Co. gifted dessert, and custom MLWGS baseball caps, provided by Crystal Ice, owned by an alum parent, were handed out to donors during the paddle raise, which alone brought in over $15,000. Another parent and owner of Tania del Carmen Photography provided a photo booth that stayed busy throughout the evening.
“The sneakers made the night feel fun and relaxed,” O’Neil said. “And no one had sore feet at the end of the night.” PTSA-donated shoelaces from the school store added a branded touch for staff attendees.
Planning began in September with a steering committee and more than 75 volunteers – parents, students and alumni – pitching in to lead committees for decorating, auction platform management and solicitations for the live and silent auctions. Hot-ticket items included wine for a year (52 bottles) from Mary Munford alumni parents, reserved seats for graduation and four vacation home stays donated by current parents. Each class and booster clubs compiled baskets related to a theme – such as an evening at the movies – which were included in the auction.
“This is the primary event where the whole parent community comes together in a social experience, unlike a game or academic competition,” O’Neil said. “Night of the Dragon really showcases the spirit of our school.”
Funds raised help the Foundation fulfill its mission, which includes providing financial support for clubs, activities and booster groups, as well as individual student support to participate in those and other activities that set the school apart.
“Every time a student walks through our doors, they’re touched by Foundation support in ways they may not even realize,” Chornodolsky said. “That’s why Night of the Dragon matters. Yes, it’s a fun evening, but it’s also the Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year.”
And next year? Mark your calendars for Feb. 28, 2026. The Night of the Dragon will return to the Faison Center; stay tuned for the new theme and details on how to be part of this uniquely MLWGS event.