By Lizzy Roy, Director of Marketing and Communications

It was a dazzling trip back in time to Spencer’s past and a festive showing of community support for education and other local needs at Salisbury Academy’s eighth annual Bloom gala on the evening of Saturday, March 18. Held at the newly refurbished Back Shop at the N.C. Transportation Museum, Bloom Industrial brought 350 community members together for an evening which included food and drink, a live auction, and dancing to music from The Band Punch.

The setting was a magical one with bright metallics, lights and steam accenting the expansive, historic setting of the Back Shop. Even more memorable than the setting, though, was the powerful outpouring of community support demonstrated at the gala.

In addition to supporting educational programming, scholarships, and community outreach efforts at Salisbury Academy, proceeds from Bloom go toward a number of critical community needs. A portion of the funds raised enable high school students from the Salisbury-Rowan Public School System to participate in the Broyhill Leadership Conference. This educational opportunity prepares young people for roles as future community leaders and exposes them to new ideas for improving Salisbury and Rowan County.

This year’s Bloom-supported non-profit was Prevent Child Abuse Rowan, a 501(c)(3) organization with a key mission of child abuse prevention and community education.

For the Fund-A-Need portion of Bloom Industrial, funds were raised for the Older Children’s Play Area of Salisbury Academy’s Outdoor Learning Space. This dynamic play space will feature a naturally inspired outdoor play structure and will encourage imaginative, outdoor play in a fascinating setting.

“Salisbury Academy is so very grateful for our supporters,” said Beverly Fowler, head of school. “We couldn’t be more excited to show our donors the results of their generosity as we break ground this spring on Salisbury Academy’s Outdoor Learning Space,” said Beverly Fowler, head of school.

Next year’s Bloom gala will celebrate Salisbury Academy’s 25^th anniversary and is scheduled to take place on March 17, 2018.

“Bloom Industrial was a magical night for all involved and a wonderful demonstration of the passion and strength of our community,” said Fowler.