'Take a Seat' Effort Raises $359K to Restore CHS Auditorium

The Achieve Foundation made good on its pledge to the School District of South Orange and Maplewood to raise $350,000 toward the $1.3 million restoration of the Columbia High School auditorium by June 30. The nonprofit says that with $358,940 collected to date, the Take a Seat campaign has exceeded its three-year campaign goal.

The organization said 759 people have contributed to the campaign so far, dedicating 500 seats. Sixty-six gifts of $1,000 or more were received for underwriting major aspects of the project.

"The success of this effort is a resounding tribute to the beloved school community of Maplewood and South Orange," said Achieve Executive Director Deborah Prinz, adding that Achieve received donations from parents recognizing teachers of young children, from graduates mourning deceased classmates and from many multi-generational CHS families.

"The plaque inscriptions evoke emotions across the board," Prinz said. "They will serve as lasting tributes to hundreds of people who were affected in some way by this remarkable institution."

Those wishing to dedicate seats and donate to the cause still have time to Take a Seat: The deadline to submit orders for seat inscription plaques is in October. If funds remain once the restoration is complete, Achieve will hold them in a dedicated fund for future auditorium improvements.