The Event

In 1996, the Sisters Schools Foundation was created to respond to major budget cuts and tax-limiting measures that threatened programs and activities at schools across the state. The Foundation's mission was to raise funds to save these programs at Sisters Elementary , Middle and High Schools. Its first fundraising event was the Sisters Starry Nights Concert Series, which debuted in 1997 and is now in its eleventh year.

The concert series features nationally renowned musical headliners and comedians who donate their time and talents to help the Sisters schools meet their fundraising goals. Among the performers who have participated in the event to date are: Michael McDonald, Deana Carter, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, John Hiatt, Kim Carnes, T. Graham Brown, David Wilcox, Karla Bonoff, J.D. Souther, Kenny Rankin, Nicolette Larson, Stephen Bishop, Mark Collie, Jeff Hanna, Matraca Berg, Greg Barnhill, Gary Morris, LeeAnn Womack, Christopher Cross, Hal Ketchum, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Kenny Loggins and Kathy Mattea. And comedians Mack and Jamie, Wayne Cotter, Michael Davis, Don McMillan, Kevin Meaney. In ten years, the Sisters Starry Nights Concert Series has raised more than $750,000 in net proceeds and has funded a multitude of programs including music, art, science, sports, math, outdoor school and other vital activities.

Students are involved in many aspects of the concert series, including serving as masters of ceremonies, on the planning committee and working as volunteer staff at each show. Student talent will also be showcased in a special number with headline performers at each concert. Student artist Adam Haynes (SHS '96) was a Drake Awards recipient for his work in designing the popular event logo, which will continue to represent the Sisters Starry Nights theme in all promotional materials. Student art is solicited to serve as a t-shirt design for each year's series.