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Out-of-Door Academy

The Out-of-Door Academy celebrates its Centennial Anniversary on March 2, 2024

| Suncoast Post Staff |

The Out-of-Door Academy begins a year-long celebration of its 100th anniversary with the Banyan Ball Extravaganza on Saturday, March 2, in the Grand Ballroom of The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota beginning at 6:00 pm.

The event will begin with cocktails and the conclusion of ODA’s signature online auction known for an extensive and diverse list of items, events, and travel packages. Following dinner, a live auction will offer participants the chance to bid on a memorable and luxurious lineup of distinctive experiences. Music by Soirée, one of the hottest bands in Florida, will keep the dance floor lively throughout the night.

WHEN:            Saturday, March 2, 2024
TIME:              6 p.m.
WHERE:          Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, 1111 Ritz Carlton Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236

The Banyan Ball Extravaganza will be an elegant and festive celebration including a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner, and dancing. The ODA community, including current and former ODA families, alumni, school educators and leaders, and friends are invited to attend as the school pays homage to the deep history of Out-of-Door in Sarasota and unveils plans for its next 100 years.

“The Banyan Ball Extravaganza will kick off a year of commemoration, introspection, preparation, and fun,” said Mrs. Debra Otey, Head of School. “Even the name of the event, ‘Extravaganza’ is a nod to memorable moments from past celebrations within the ODA community. It will certainly be an evening to remember as we embark on the next 100 years of Out-of-Door and our unwavering commitment to providing a transformative learning experience for our students.”

The event will begin with cocktails and the conclusion of ODA’s signature online auction known for an extensive and diverse list of items, events, and travel packages. Following dinner, a live auction will offer participants the chance to bid on a memorable and luxurious lineup of distinctive experiences. Music by Soirée, one of the hottest bands in Florida, will keep the dance floor lively throughout the night.

“It is my hope that anyone who has ever been a part of the Out-of-Door family will return home and help celebrate this milestone with our community,” commented Jamie Becker, ODA parent and Banyan Ball Extravaganza Chair. “The success of our beloved school is because of the support of the faculty, students, families, and the Greater Sarasota community over the years. Everyone is welcome because I strongly believe Tradition Never Graduates!”

In reflection of ODA’s signature color, blue attire of all shades is encouraged at this black-tie event. Individual tickets are $450, and a variety of sponsorships are available. All proceeds will benefit The ODA Fund. Please visit HERE for details and information.

About Out-of-Door Academy

The Out-of-Door Academy nurtures learners to be their best selves through impactful, challenging, and purposeful growth experiences in a supportive and unique environment. An Out-of-Door education is defined by our commitment to build character through a balanced program of academics, the arts, and athletics. Our core values of Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Responsibility are the foundation of our school community.

The Out-of-Door Academy serves more than 830 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade on its two campuses in Lakewood Ranch and Siesta Key. Out-of-Door will be opening its third campus in Sarasota in August 2024, which will welcome pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade for the 2024-2025 school year.

Photo from ODA website

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