Dr. Jerry Egan and Mary Barnett on a lift

Fund-raiser aids good cause, gives principal a lift

When Hambright students and staff set out to raise money for the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Heart, principal Dr. Jerry Egan issued a challenge: If they raised $5,000, he’d work for an hour suspended on a lift.

On Friday, Egan fulfilled his promise, but instead of an hour perched 20 feet high on the JLG hydraulic lift, he worked for three hours up in the air because so much money was raised.

By soliciting donations from family members, friends and neighbors, Hambright raised $7,398 by jumping rope – the highest total in the 20 years the school has been participating. Over the years, Hambright has raised a whopping $60,000-plus through the event, organized this year by physical education teacher Mary Barnett.

“Over the past nine years as principal, I’ve always been impressed with Hambright’s generosity, especially when it relates to supporting a good cause,” Egan said. “Jump Rope for Heart is just one of many examples of Hambright  reaching out beyond themselves to help the greater community.”

More students than ever – 130 – participated this year. The top fund-raisers were sixth-grader Kaeden Rhoads ($1,180), first-grader Reilly Ennis ($500) and fourth-grader Paige Dubbs ($316).

Thanks to all who supported a great cause – and gave Hambright’s principal a lift!