CHS seniors Harrison Russell (left) and Milan Jovingo (right) organized this year’s art auction event, supporting the West Georgia Child Advocacy Center.
At Carrollton High School (CHS), the spirit of collaboration and community service shines through every initiative, and this year’s annual International Baccalaureate (IB) art auction was no exception. Spearheaded by IB seniors Harrison Russell and Milan Jovingo, the event successfully benefited the West Georgia Child Advocacy Center, raising an impressive $600 through a silent auction held in the CHS Media Center ending on November 7.
The silent auction provided a unique opportunity for CHS students and faculty to bid on a diverse range of artwork, including pieces generously donated and created by local artists, professionals, and talented students. Harrison and Milan took an active role in curating this collection, reaching out to the community for donations and even participating in the Carrollton Art Expedition—a renowned event that promotes fine arts and supports local artists. Their efforts ensured a rich variety of artwork for attendees to appreciate and bid on.
Milan Jovingo shared her reflections on organizing the event, highlighting the necessity of collaboration and connection with fellow artists. “This project called for tons of collaboration,” she noted, emphasizing the collective effort that brought the event to life. The teamwork involved in soliciting art and coordinating logistics was extensive but ultimately rewarding.
Reflecting on the personal rewards of the auction, Milan expressed, “My favorite part of this event is the chance to share art with my peers. It is incredibly rewarding to see people connect with a piece that you have created or helped feature.” Her enthusiasm for fostering artistic expression within the school community is evident, showcasing the intrinsic value of the event beyond mere fundraising.
Each IB diploma candidate is tasked with executing a Creative Activity and Service (CAS) project, a requirement that ensures each student engages thoughtfully with their community. For Milan, the decision to organize an art auction stemmed from her admiration for a former CHS IB student, Eli Jarrett. She sought to follow in his footsteps, inspired by the impact an art-focused initiative can have.
Stephanie Holloway, the IB CAS Coordinator and CHS Media Specialist, praised the breadth of this year’s art collection, stating, “There were over 40 items donated, including student artwork, with a ton of really high-quality and unique pieces.” The successful turnout reflects the enthusiasm and creativity of both students and the wider community, offering a platform for diverse artistic voices.
Milan and Harrison’s decision to donate the proceeds to the West Georgia Child Advocacy Center underscores the dual purpose of their effort—celebrating creativity while also contributing to a critical cause. This meaningful connection not only enhances the experience for participants but also furthers essential support for children who are vulnerable and in need of assistance.
The West Georgia Child Advocacy Center is dedicated to supporting young victims of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse throughout Carroll, Haralson, and Heard counties. They provide a safe and comfortable space for forensic interviews, advocate for the families affected, and offer prevention training. The work performed by the Center is crucial, and the contributions from the art auction play a vital role in furthering their mission.
