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Decendents
Our Commitment
Our Commitment
At APPLAUSE!, our mission is to empower and uplift the performing arts programs at Oak Park River Forest High School. We are dedicated to fostering creativity, supporting artistic excellence, and inspiring the next generation of artists.
Through collaborative efforts, we provide resources, opportunities, and advocacy to nurture the talent and passion of students in the fields of band, choir, orchestra, theater, and dance. We strive to create a vibrant and inclusive community that celebrates the transformative power of the arts.
By fostering a love for the arts, advocating for their importance, and providing a platform for students to showcase their talents, we aim to make a lasting impact on their lives and the broader community.
APPLAUSE! is committed to fostering an environment of support, mentorship, and collaboration, where students can explore their artistic potential, gain valuable experiences, and develop the skills necessary for success in the arts and beyond.
Together with parents, educators, and the wider community, we create a chorus of support and appreciation, amplifying the voices of our talented students and ensuring that the arts remain an integral part of the educational experience.
Through APPLAUSE!, we empower students to shine, embrace their creativity, and become the stars they are meant to be.
Team Members
Team Members
Our dedicated team at APPLAUSE! is a vibrant blend of parents, educators, community members, and arts enthusiasts, all united by a shared passion for empowering the performing arts at Oak Park River Forest High School. With diverse backgrounds and talents, we bring a wealth of experience to the table, from event coordination to fundraising expertise. Together, we work tirelessly to support the growth and success of our talented students in theater, stage crew, dance, choir, band, and orchestra. Meet the faces behind the applause, and join us in making a difference in the lives of our young artists.
Executive Board
Executive Board
Co-President:
Co-President:
Shailushi Ritchie
Shailushi Ritchie
Shailushi Baxi Ritchie is an experienced interim CEO, consultant, and board member with 30 years of experience in mission driven organizations. Her background is in management roles at many different types of nonprofits, including, foundations, policy think tanks, community-based, and advocacy organizations.
Co-President:
Co-President:
Rekha Rajkumar
Rekha Rajkumar
Rekha Rajkumar is long time Oak Park resident and former Treasurer of APPLAUSE! Prior to joining the board, she volunteered in various capacities at her children’s schools. Her professional background includes healthcare management consulting and decision support planning.
Secretary:
Secretary:
Michelle Baladad
Michelle Baladad
Michelle Baladad has four active OPRF students with two involved in theater and speech team. Her background includes product management for omnichannel digital solutions. A former band and speech team member, she knows firsthand the lasting impact and proudly supports OPRF's performing arts program.
Treasurer:
Treasurer:
Chris Saam
Chris Saam
Chris Saam is a 10 year resident of Oak Park, with two daughters in Theater and Choir at OPRF. He also serves on the Village of Oak Park Citizens Involvement Commission. Chris previously served as Secretary of the BRAVO Advisory Board at GBMS and Secretary of APPLAUSE!
Volunteer Director:
Volunteer Director:
Caren Chessick Teclaw
Caren Chessick Teclaw
Caren Chessick Teclaw is the parent of two current OPRF students and enjoys volunteering with APPLAUSE! She worked as an English teacher at Morton East High School and is happy to be back in the education environment and supporting the amazing arts programs OPRF provides.
Volunteer Director:
Volunteer Director:
Léonie Lloyd
Léonie Lloyd
Band parent and longtime supporter of the performing arts, Léonie has been volunteering and working with children in public schools since 2008. She has been an active participant and officer with APPLAUSE! for the last three years.
Ensemble and Partner Liaisions
Ensemble and Partner Liaisions
A.P.P.L.E - TBD
Band & Marching Band - Leonie Lloyd
Choir - TBD
Dance & Orchesis - TBD
District 200 Board - Josh Gertz
Huskie Boosters - Chris Saam
Imagine Foundation - TBD
Orchestra - TBD
PING - TBD
Show Choir - TBD
Speech Team - Gwen Walski
Staff Liaison - TBD
Theater - Caren Teclaw
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