Shandelee — On the evening of September 23, Friends of EverGreen Meadow Academy gathered to celebrate their work in Sullivan County to build a first of its kind residential middle school for girls who are living with the impacts of trauma. 

The crowd packed into the Arnold House in Shandelee for the sold out “Evening with EverGreen” dinner, which was opened by event co-chairs Mitra Behroozi and Lee Perlman. 

Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, who were honorary co-chairs, both sent video greetings.

“We’re grateful for all of our supporters,” said Stacey Millman, EverGreen Meadow Academy founder and president. “But we’re especially thankful for those who joined us early, believing in our mission and going the extra mile in supporting us to make our vision real.”

Millman went on to introduce the evening’s honorees. Dr. Terry Hamlin accepted the inaugural Visionary Pioneer Award on behalf of the Center for Discovery, which was honored for leading the way by donating 34 bucolic acres in Rock Hill, to build EverGreen Meadow Academy middle school and treatment center, which will be the only residential middle school in New York State for girls who are living with the impacts of trauma.

Elizabeth “Biz” Rowley received the honors for the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan for being first in funding EverGreen Meadow Services in Sullivan County, opening new doors by connecting people who care with EverGreen and providing critical strategic support.

Last but not least, Assemblymember Aileen Gunther was honored for her efforts to raise awareness about the growing adolescent mental health crisis and securing critical NYS funding to support programs and services for young girls in Sullivan County and across the state.

A highlight of the evening was a musical performance by Liberty Middle school girls, who participate in an EverGreen Meadow Services’ empowerment group that builds emotional well-being, resilience and leadership in girls. 

In collaboration with the Steam Foundation, the girls sang a song that grew out of one of their sessions. Musicians Beth and Scott Bierko, who were part of the creation of this melody and lyrics, accompanied the girls.

“It was a magical moment for all of us who were in attendance,” said EverGreen Meadow Academy Executive Director Adrienne Jensen. “Experiencing the desire the community shares for the girls’ success is a moment they will remember for the rest of their lives.”