Barry to Step Down from Fourth of July Committee
by Bailey Basham, Messenger Staff Writer
After more than 8 years of leading the efforts to organize Sewanee’s beloved annual Fourth of July celebration, Jade Barry will be stepping down as chairperson of the planning committee.
Barry, who has described the Fourth of July as better than Christmas, said she feels it is time for new leadership on the organizing committee.
“My husband and I have volunteered on multiple boards almost nonstop since our son was born. We have a serious heart for community and servant leadership. After a few years of just enjoying the celebrations and being part of the community, we hope to be ready to swing back into action again,” she said. “The celebration has so much potential to grow and be successful, and I think it’s time for someone with fresh, new ideas to take over.”
Barry said she and the other organizers do not yet know who will be taking over the planning process, but it is her hope that whoever chooses to do so will be able to draw upon the magic of the celebration and reach new heights with the event.
“There is something for almost everyone on the schedule of events, and that’s part of why it’s my favorite day of the year,” she said. “It’s really a day when everyone can feel welcomed, accepted and able to have fun. With whoever comes in to keep the celebration going, I know that will remain the same.”
Despite choosing to step down, Barry said she and her family would not miss future Fourth of July celebrations for anything.
“My family and I have a picnic on the grass on University Avenue every year during the celebration, and we all have so much fun,” she said.
This year’s celebration will be centered around a “Maskerade Ball” theme. Read the full schedule of events here
http://www.sewanee4thofjuly.or...
For anyone interested in becoming chairperson of the organizing committee, email Barry at <jademcbee@gmail.com>.