by Chris Cain
8/30/2019

Below, teachers and administrators gather just outside the teachers' lounge before the reveal.  Mrs. Murphy (red shorts) is speaking with Allison Hatcher of the design team.Concordia University-Portland launched the ‘Together Towards Change’ campaign earlier this year, rooted in inspiring students and educators to create real change in the communities that surround them.

The campaign included the “Ultimate Lounge Makeover Contest,” which was won by English teacher and track & field coach, Mrs. Jamie Murphy, of Holliston Public Schools.

Above, teachers and adminiistrators gather just outside the teachers' lounge before the reveal.  Mrs. Murphy (red shorts) is speaking with Allison Hatcher of the design team.

The expression on Mrs. Murphy's face as she sees the redecorated lounge says it all.  The room was done exactly as Mrs. Murphy had described in her contest entry.  She remarked that, "I had no idea my design would win a national contest."

The before and after pictures below give you a sense of why Mrs. Murphy had such a big smile as she entered the room.

Madeline Turnock, Special Advisor to the President of Concordia University, was on hand to congratulate Mrs. Murphy - and the entire High School faculty and administration.  Ms. Turnock shared that, "the goal of the contest aligns with Concordia's ideals of supporting educators, helping them connect and collaborate."  She highlighted the level of support the University and design team received from High School Principal Ms. Nicole Bottomley - seen below chatting with Ms. Turnock in some very comfy chairs.

Below, Mrs. Murphy is joined by the design team that in one week transformed the beige space into an energizing and inviting lounge where teachers can recharge themselves (and their electronic devices too!)  Seen below (L-R) Mr. Chris Cook, the new HHS Assistant Principal, Allison Hatcher, Jamie Murphy, Owen Bly, Marci Duarte, and Cody Burgess.

Congratulations Mrs. Murphy and thank you for entering the contest that led to this beautiful outcome!