Flowers and Student-Senior Connections Bloom at Cornerstone at Hampton Prom

Originally published in SeacoastOnline. Read the full story here.

Spring was in bloom at the “Botanical Garden”-themed combined prom of Cornerstone at Hampton residents and Winnacunnet High School students, a celebration full of music, dancing, and floral fun. 

This was the second annual student and senior prom for the “Wisdom Warriors,” a team of 18 Cornerstone residents and 21 high schoolers, who spent weeks planning the prom’s decorations, music, and menu. Over the past few months, residents and students worked together to craft a variety of beautiful paper flowers, create a balloon arch, and even decorated whimsical wooden lanterns with fake leaves and butterflies. 

George Tosatti, a resident who was part of the planning committee, truly enjoyed getting to know the students. “It’s really nice to have the youngsters around,” he said. “ I liked to talk with the kids and brainstorm about what they wanted to do. The prom was so fun, the food and drinks were great.”

At the prom, the residents and students were dressed to impress with lovely formal gowns, and residents brought family members or friends as their dates. The ladies wore flower crowns and the gentlemen wore boutonnieres, which were handmade by students at the Lincoln Akerman School in Hampton Falls. 

“The night was amazing, it was such a soul filler,” shared Jocelyn Canzano, Cornerstone at Hampton Dining Associate and mom to Wisdom Warrior student Sabrina. “I’m so grateful that we’re able to partner with the Winnacunnet students to put this together.” 

Everyone enjoyed a wonderful pizza buffet, salads with spring vegetables, and of course a delicious dessert bar complete with garden-themed cake pops. The students and residents alike were excited to get on the dance floor, and DJ Scott Langlois brought the energy with music from the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s and today’s hits. Classics such as “Twist and Shout” and “We are Family” got everyone to join in the dance party.

“The kids are so wonderful, and everyone looks forward to it every year!” remarked resident Alice McSweeney, who has attended the prom for the past two years with her son-in-law Thomas Yancanin. “He even bought me a corsage to match my outfit. It was just the best.” 

“I love making meaningful connections with the residents, and learning about their lives and how it impacts my future,” expressed Winnacunnet student Marley. 

“I loved having the opportunity to sit and work with the residents. Learning about their lives, their families, and even their travel experiences was a great way to connect. The prom was absolutely incredible this year and I’m so glad I was a part of it,” shared Winnacunnet High School student Annabelle.

For the residents, working together with the students helped them feel like they were part of something bigger. Seeing their friends, families, and the greater community have so much fun at an event that they helped envision and create brought a sense of fulfillment for the students and seniors alike.