Lawrence Township School Foundation’s New CEO Talks Celebration Gala Fundraiser
Writer / Matt Keating
Photography Provided
Misty Wick Johnston, the president and CEO of Lawrence Township School Foundation (LTSF), says she couldn’t be more excited about her new job, and the opportunities it presents, including LTSF’s upcoming Celebration Gala. 
“Since becoming LTSF’s first president and CEO, it’s been an energizing journey marked by progress, collaboration and community support,” Johnston says. “We’ve advanced our mission through impactful programs, benefiting students and teachers by fostering innovative educational experiences and opportunities. I’m incredibly grateful for the generous support of our donors and corporate sponsors who support the foundation and help us to make a significant impact in our community.”
Johnston notes that the LTSF board of directors and staff have begun a strategic planning process that will focus on three key areas over the next few years, including organizational excellence, community impact and, most importantly, student success.
“I’ve been most excited about seeing firsthand the experiences and opportunities that we can provide to students,” she says. “Watching them engage, explore and learn is really powerful to see, and even more powerful to know I’ve had a small part in making those programs possible for all Lawrence Township students. The key driving force in doing work like this is seeing the impact it has on the students and the community.”
Johnston is looking forward to the Celebration Gala. She says LTSF cordially invites guests to hop aboard The Magic School Bus and join them on March 8 from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in downtown Indianapolis.
“You can bring the magic and wonder of learning to life by supporting LTSF’s largest annual fundraising event,” Johnston says.
For over 40 years, LTSF has been connecting community and classrooms to support the educational experiences of Lawrence Township students, with funding for programs that aren’t supported by tax dollars. Since 1983, LTSF has contributed more than $8.7 million to support the education of the children in Lawrence Township schools.
“Just like Ms. Frizzle [from “The Magic School Bus” book and TV series], LTSF celebrates hands-on learning, curiosity, and exploration,” Johnston says. “Let your imagination take you on an adventure at the LTSF 2024 Celebration Gala, where you can make an impact by bidding on amazing silent-auction items, playing the game of chance and simply giving the gift of education.”
“LTSF’s Celebration Gala is a very special event for the foundation and contributes significantly to the foundation’s revenue, to support our students and provide them with the tools and resources they need to succeed each year,” she adds. “The Celebration Gala is not just any event though; it’s a spectacular evening that showcases the power of education and community coming together.”
Attendees should plan for cocktail attire. Tickets for individuals are $150, and tickets for Lawrence Township faculty and staff are $95. A corporate table is $2,500. To purchase tickets, or to learn more, visit msdltf.org.
