The Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program at Marshfield High School will host its 4th annual “Made in Marshfield” Celebrity Dinner on Friday, Feb. 7, offering community members a night of food, entertainment and a firsthand look at students preparing for life beyond the classroom.
The event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Marshfield High School Cafeteria and will again be entirely planned and executed by JAG students, a hallmark of the program that emphasizes real-world workforce readiness.
“This is our fourth annual dinner — can you believe it’s already been four?” said JAG Specialist Shelley Jones. “The kids truly prepare all aspects of this event, and that’s what makes it so special.”
New this year, the dinner will feature both live and silent dessert auctions, giving attendees the chance to bid on a variety of sweet creations while supporting the program.
Entertainment for the evening will also bring a touch of elegance. Maddi Tunny, a violinist with the Missouri State Symphony Orchestra, will provide live music during the event. Tunny, a sophomore and Glendale High School graduate, was described by Jones as “sweet as pie” and a perfect fit for the evening.
Leading up to the dinner, JAG students have been deeply involved in the planning process, working alongside local business owners and community members.
“They’ve met with people throughout the community to pull this off,” Jones said. “For example, a group of students met with Sheila at Sheila’s Restaurant, and she helped prepare the menu for the evening. That gave them a behind-the-scenes look at what menu planning really looks like.”
In addition to coordinating the meal, students have been securing live and silent auction items, preparing program presentations and organizing seating so guests can interact directly with students.
“The community members who attend will learn more about the JAG program,” Jones said, “but the students are also excited to learn from the adults at their tables. They’re ready to ask life questions and really allow the adults in the room to pour into them.”
Jones said watching the students bring the event together is one of the most rewarding parts of the program.
“If they can work within groups, solve problems, handle roadblocks and pull it all together, that’s workforce readiness,” she said. “It’s incredible to watch.”
The JAG Dinner serves as both a fundraiser and a celebration of student growth, leadership and community partnership.
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