In a remarkable showcase of community spirit, Lakeview students rallied for their annual school-wide food drive, orchestrated by the dynamic duo of Middle School Aide Margie Petrunia and Entrepreneur teacher Chris Romano. Celebrating over 20 consecutive years, this charitable initiative has evolved into an eagerly anticipated event, fostering not only generosity but also healthy competition among the student body.
This year’s food drive, themed around college football, introduced a tournament-style bracket to bring a sense of friendly rivalry. Spearheaded by Romano, the goal extended beyond amassing non-perishable food items; it aimed to harness the excitement surrounding college football to support a cause that transcends the school’s walls.
Petrunia, a pillar of compassion and community service, has been the driving force behind this initiative for over two decades. Her tireless dedication has transformed a simple act of giving into a cherished tradition. Known for her kindness and a heart as vast as the cause she champions, Petrunia’s influence extends far beyond the success of each year’s food drive.
Joining forces with Petrunia is Romano, an instrumental figure in the Student Entrepreneurship Club and a co-pilot in steering the food drive to new heights. Together, their collaborative efforts have turned what was once a charitable endeavor into a spirited competition that ignites the spirit of giving across Lakeview High.
The tournament-style bracket injected a thrilling dynamic into the food drive, with classrooms, friend groups, and sports teams engaging in friendly competition to see who could contribute the most. This bracket system fostered a comforting sense of camaraderie, elevating the act of giving to a community-wide event. As the competition intensified, so did the generosity, resulting in a significant surge in donations compared to previous years. One such contributor is always Josh Murphy. Teaching both high school and college chemistry, Murphy has a very good relationship with all students, and with his charisma and friendly competition, he motivates the student body to bring their A-game against him and all teachers.
Beyond the numerical success of the food drive, Petrunia and Romano’s influence resonates on a personal level with those fortunate enough to work alongside them. Colleagues praise their dedication and describe them as beacons of positivity and inspiration. Students, too, speak highly of their approachability and genuine commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
In a world often filled with individual pursuits, Dana Petrunia and Romano stand out as champions of generosity and community building. As Lakeview thrives as an educational sanctuary, their collaborative efforts serve as a reminder of the power of compassion, leadership, and the enduring impact of selfless acts on the wider community of Trumbull County as a whole.
The annual food drive, with its innovative yearly themes coupled with the incredible guidance and management of Petrunia and Romano, not only fills the pantry shelves, but also enriches the hearts of those involved with a sense of purpose and unity. The legacy they’ve built over two decades stands as a testament to the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have on a community when fueled by a shared commitment to making the world a better place. As a group, the Entrepreneurship club is already preparing for the next act of kindness to better not only the school, but the entire community.
