On December 12th, 2014, Padua Academy hosted the 9th annual Father-Daughter Dinner Dance. As soon as fathers and their daughters entered the cafeteria, they were whisked away to this year’s theme of “Christmas in New York.” Christmas carols played in the background of the event while all of the girls took advantage of the opportunity to take pictures with friends as well as their dads. The time before dinner was also a perfect chance for dads to meet other dads or simply catch up.  For many freshmen, this was their first time attending this type of dance. Shannon Murray says, “I absolutely loved the Father-Daughter Dinner Dance. My favorite part about it was dancing with my friends and being able to spend time with my dad.” On the other hand, this would be the last Padua Academy Father-Daughter Dinner Dance for the seniors. When asked if they would miss attending the Dinner-Dance, many seniors replied with similar answers: “I’ll definitely miss going to Padua’s Father Daughter Dinner Dance, especially since I’ve had so much fun!”
Around 7:30, everyone was told to take a seat so the delicious dinner could be served. The meal consisted of mashed potatoes, chicken filled with stuffing, and vegetables that were cooked to perfection. After finishing the meal, guests helped themselves to scrumptious desserts including brownies, cookies, and mini cupcakes. At this point, the dance had just started and the night was still young. The first dance of the night was to a bittersweet country song while dads and their daughters shared the first of many slow dances. Afterwards, the Cupid Shuffle was played, while dads showed their daughters how its done. The pattern of the DJ switching from upbeat songs to slow songs went on for about two more hours so that no one would be lonely or unhappy that night. Songs like Somewhere over the Rainbow, Shake it Off, Shout, Isn’t She Lovely, Don’t Stop Believing, Dance With my Father, I Loved Her First, Uptown Funk It Up, Fergalicious, Hey Ya!, and Cotton-Eye Joe were played at the dinner-dance. Additionally, throughout the night, the Padua Academy Student Council had hosted a raffle for gifts such as gift cards, ornaments, and even a little something from Tiffany and Company. Overall, the Father Daughter Dinner Dance was a huge success; so much so that many girls can’t wait for next year’s. Shannon says, “I’m excited about next year’s dinner-dance. I’m looking forward to what’s in store!”