Principal Herman Brister Jr. and his wife Jessica (pictured, left, in black gown and black tuxedo) got to boogie down recently during McKinley Middle Magnet School’s Black Tie Affair so some select students can move up in the world. 

The event was a fundraiser to provide funds for students to travel internationally. Students will be traveling to Rome and Greece during the month of May with EF Tours.  About $10,000 was raised for the trip.

The adult gala was held at the school and featured some of Baton Rouge’s finest local entertainment, such as Southern University’s Jazzy Jags, Cathy Toliver and The Three Sopranos artist Marie Flowers. 

Several Baton Rouge restaurants participated in the event.  A taste fair included delicious edibles from, Chick-fil-a, Kona Grill, IHOP, A Catered Affair, Vincent City Club, Omar’s Cakes and Lady Di’s Sweet Delight.

The event was sponsored by the Peralta Family Trust, Southern University Foundation, Representative Michael Jackson, Agnes Andrews of AllState Insurance, Mid South Bank, the local NAACP chapter, East Baton Rouge Parish School Board representative Tarvald Smith, Lamar Corporation, Kelli Terrell Temple and many others.

The event entertained more than 200 guests. School Board Vice President Jonathan C. Augustine served as the guest speaker at the night of dinner and dancing.

The event was coordinated by Sean Joffrion, the administrative dean of McKinley Middle School. The gala will be an annual fundraiser to raise money for the students who travel abroad.  In 2010, the select students will be traveling to Paris and London