Kendall Eastman-Stuart, a fourth grader at Runnels Elementary, was in the Drama Room watching a play with her class when her name was called by Elementary Assistant Principal Beth Golden. It might have been an "uh-oh" moment, but instead Kendall was called to the stage to receive an award.
Kendall was named the overall grand-prize winner of the 2018 Ochsner Holiday Card Contest. As a result of her win, her mixed media drawing of a Christmas tree in soft pastel colors appeared on the official Ochsner Baton Rouge holiday card and poster.
At Runnels School to present Kendall with her award were Ochsner Baton Rouge CEO Eric McMillen, Community Outreach Project Manager Heidi Howat Wendt, and “Ollie” the Ochsner mascot. They presented her with a framed poster of the card with her name and school printed on the front, a cookie cake to share with her classmates, an “Ollie” stuffed animal, and a drawing kit to further encourage her interest in art.
“I look forward to this fun event every year,” said McMillen. “The kids are really excited to see Ollie and this shows Ochsner’s commitment to our community. Kendall is a terrific young artist and we are proud to display her work.”
Also at school for the presentation were Kendall's dad, John Eastman-Stuart, her grandmother, Georgia Eastman, and her art teacher, Burgundy Brumfield.
"Our students always enjoy participating in the contest sponsored by Ochsner," said Runnels Head of School Marcia Mackay. "We are thrilled that this year Kendall's card was chosen as the overall winner. I know it meant a great deal to her and her family this holiday season."