The Lyons Leadership Class recently brought music, memories, and meaningful connections to the Wayne County Nursing Home through a special Senior Prom event organized as part of their Leadership Passion Project.
Led by Brady Bastian ‘26, Felecity Velez-Rivera ‘26, Evan Peeso ‘27, and Savannah Williamson ‘27, the project was created in collaboration with the Wayne County Nursing Home to provide residents with a morning filled with joy, laughter, and companionship.
Students and staff transformed the space with decorations, music, 
games, and dancing, creating a welcoming atmosphere for residents to relax and enjoy the celebration. Staff members also joined in the fun by dressing up and bringing in old prom photos, which were displayed throughout the room, adding a nostalgic and personal touch to the event. Residents arrived dressed for the occasion, many wearing their dancing shoes and proudly showing off beautiful corsages and boutonnieres. Throughout the evening, students danced, talked, laughed, and built connections with residents, while others enjoyed visiting with friends and taking in the event's excitement.
One of the most touching moments of the evening came from Doug and Jeanette Wessie, who first attended prom together in 1955. More than seventy years later, they shared memories of their original prom experience at the Wayne County Nursing Home Senior Prom, surrounded by residents, students, staff, and friends. Their story brought a heartfelt sense of nostalgia and reminded everyone in attendance of the lasting impact of connection, community, and shared memories.
Senior Brady Bastian reflected on the experience, sharing, “It means so much to me that we were able to bring joy to a generation before us and help recreate that kind of connection, laughter, and memories.”
The morning served as a powerful reminder that leadership is about more than organizing an event, it's about building relationships, serving others, and making a difference in the lives of those around us.
