This past spring, Shannon Richardson, grade 8, was the envy of her classmates as she and five of her friends enjoyed a leisurely, lovely birthday luncheon served in the gazebo at the lower school campus’ amphitheater.

The birthday lunch was a gift from her parents, Brian and Lee, who were the highest bidders on the popular auction item described as “lunch al fresco with a stellar wait staff,” purchased at last year’s Harker family picnic.

Thanks to her parents, Richardson celebrated turning 14 in style, with Harker’s top administrative echelon catering to her every dining need. Her top-notch wait staff at the event, held on a sunny March 19 afternoon, was none other than Chris Nikoloff, head of school, Jennifer Gargano, assistant head of school and Cindy Ellis, middle school head. The trio, having served at this event in the past, performed their duties with professionalism and flair.

Birthday girl Richardson had the opportunity to hand-pick her special lunch menu, comprising all her favorite foods. On the menu were Caesar salad, chicken pot pies, teriyaki chicken wings, cheese pizza, fruit smoothies, chocolate chip cookies, Dr. Pepper and cupcakes.

“As always, a stellar job was done by all! The girls loved it. I’ve already had inquiries from students about how they can have lunch on the quad with such a superlative wait staff,” said Kate Murphy, middle school English teacher, who helped coordinate the event.

This October, during Harker’s upcoming picnic, the unique luncheon will once again be available for purchase as a much sought after silent auction item.