On Nov. 22, Piedmont High School students came together for their annual "One Day, One Panther" event, a day of service where students and staff unite to help others. This event, now in its third year, was inspired by the idea of creating a meaningful, community-driven effort, similar to Wingate University’s One Day, One Dog. Wingate’s event encourages students to use their time and talents to make a difference through service projects on and off campus. Piedmont High School wanted to capture that same spirit of service by focusing on immediate, hands-on support for local families and residents.
Senior Lillli Baucom and student government vice president said, “One Day, One Panther is all about giving back and supporting those in need. We collect items and provide them for people who need them most. It’s an opportunity to unite and create something meaningful for our community.”
Weeks before the event, Piedmont High School collected donations from students, staff, and the community. The donations included food, clothing, eyeglasses, and holiday stockings for children displaced by Hurricane Helene. On the event day, the campus was stocked with supplies, ready to be sorted and packed for distribution to local shelters and organizations.
“The excitement builds as we get closer to the day,” said senior Kelly Pitoniak and student government president, who has participated since the initiative began. “It’s amazing to see everyone’s contributions come together, but it’s really on the big day when everything happens. We sort, pack, and send everything out—knowing that it will help those who need it most.”
The student government organized the event, and this year was the first time that student leaders served as building captains. These underclassmen were mentored by seniors, ensuring the initiative’s continued success and providing leadership opportunities for all students.
Kelly said, “This initiative is about more than helping others—it’s about empowering younger students to take on leadership roles and keep the legacy of service alive.”
Senior Dylan Tepera shared her experience. “I didn’t know about all the work they had done behind the scenes as a freshman or sophomore,” Dylan explained. “But when I became a member of the Executive Board my junior year, I was surprised by the amount of work that needed to be done. Now I understand how to get those things done and how important those little details add up.”
Student government provides valuable skills, allowing students to learn how to manage large projects, work as a team and communicate with the broader community. “Being part of student government is about learning how to take action and make an impact,” Kelly added. “You’re not just organizing an event; you’re developing skills that will last far beyond high school.”
Junior Kayley Fugate and the student government secretary shared how personally meaningful the event is. “It’s amazing to see the difference we can make for those in need,” she said. “On the day of the event, seeing everything come together and knowing we’re making a direct impact is so rewarding.” Senior Nathanael Francis added, “It helps me grow as a leader and realize how much I can contribute to my community.”
The event also offered students real-world experiences. Senior Elias Broadway, a film enthusiast who handles communications for student government, created a professional promotional video for the event, adding it to his growing film school portfolio. Meanwhile, Nathanael, the treasurer, honed his budgeting and organizational skills, which will serve him well in the future. “This is my chance to gain practical skills that go far beyond high school,” Nathaniel explained. “It’s about planning, adapting and working as part of a team to bring a vision to life.”
On Nov. 22, the atmosphere at Piedmont High was filled with energy as students worked together to sort donations, pack gift bags and tie bows on stockings. Students eagerly participated in each part of the process, making the day a celebration of service.
Advisors Annette Harris and Katie Haigler are proud of their students' dedication. “Student government isn’t just about organizing events—it’s about developing leadership, empathy, and teamwork,” Harris said. “Watching these students grow as leaders and seeing their tangible impact on their community is incredibly rewarding.”
Haigler added, “The best part is seeing the students realize the importance of service. They understand that giving back is more than just a one-time event—it’s about contributing to the community and building a better future for everyone.”
With "One Day, One Panther" now complete, Piedmont High reflects on another successful year of service. The event strengthened the school community and offered students valuable leadership experiences that will remain with them long after graduation.
11/27/2024
