Often, graduating classes choose to make a donation of some kind to their alma mater. This donation is a way to show pride in their school, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations of students to enjoy.

If you have been in the Senior High School cafeteria, there is no doubt you have noticed the lion in the corner. This magnificent metal sculpture was commissioned by the Rush-Henrietta Class of 2011 as a gift to the school.

The class contacted local sculptor Christopher Ward, and asked him to create a lion in honor of the district mascot. Chris remembers the project as being a challenge, and says it took longer than he had anticipated to finish the intricate piece. “Originally, it was going to go in the main foyer of the high school, but when I delivered it, they determined it needed a different home. I think it is larger than they expected.”

Chris has done work for the Lovin’ Cup, a restaurant near RIT, creating the whimsical wine rack behind the bar and the metal tables seen there. He has also produced works for private owners and is looking forward to the return of art shows to begin creating again.

Meanwhile, the lion stands ready in the cafeteria, representing Royal Comets past and future.

[Post 38] #75posts75years