Keeping with the masquerade theme of Snowball, students danced the night away in masks at Hackley’s Upper School winter formal. The PAC was transformed into a starry paradise decorated with fairy lights, rose petals and floating balloons. Community Council members were tremendously pleased with the turnout and positive feedback from enthusiastic students.

For the first time in Snowball’s history, Community Council asked the student body to voice their opinions and vote on the theme for the dance. As Council aims to serve the community, president Alex Meyer wanted to offer the students input into the planning process.

The “Snowball” was started in 2014 by former Community Council president Damis Yancopoulos. Open to the entire Upper School, Snowball offers freshmen and sophomores especially, a fun social event in the midst of the traditional school stress, as Prom is typically for juniors and seniors.

Community Council started planning Snowball in November, much earlier than in the past, which allowed members to spend more time on details such as decorations, food, music, and advertising.

In the weeks leading up to the dance, the advertising committee promoted Snowball through videos on the student-run Facebook page, The Hive, posters, and announcements in grade-wide meetings and homerooms.

Using the funds raised through venues such as candy grams and food stands at sports events, Council was able to decorate the PAC with lights, balloons, masks, and candles. Senior Jordan Schwartz said, “The PAC looked amazing and professionally done. The light-up masks were a nice touch with the theme.”

Those attending picked up a free mask at the entrance and danced to the music selected by senior Seth Tilliss, also know as “DJ Trilliss.” Seth will be hard to replace in the coming years as noted by senior Uriel Garcia, “He was a great DJ and chose really great songs. We don’t have another DJ like that so we’re definitely going to miss him.”

Students also enjoyed the delicious Italian food offerings provided by Mr. Nicks, the catering service chosen by Council.

Sophomore Robert Patterson used his photography skills to capture students dancing the night away. Council also set up a photo booth with props and a backdrop for students to take photos. The photos were then uploaded online and emailed to students from Council advisor Bill McLay.

The night was filled with loud music and laughter from students and teacher chaperones. Sophomore Mia Boemio said, “Snowball was very fun at the end and I would highly recommend attending it next year.”

Community Council hopes that Snowball will continue to be an annual and spirited tradition at Hackley, supported by the hard-working efforts of both the student body and Council members.