LIHSA Legacy Celebration 2026

LIHSA – now over 50 years old – began as a dream and flourished when nurtured with love, passion, skill, and determination by founding Principal Ava Favara.

On Monday, April 27, 2026, alumni, current students, and faculty & staff from LIHSA’s past five decades gathered to celebrate the school’s longevity and accomplishments.

Current Principal Lindsay Rogan reflected on Ava’s tenure sharing that she, “created a place where students could feel a sense of belonging. When alumni return, they often speak about the people they met here, the experiences they had, and the moments that shaped them. That’s a reflection of what Ava built.”

To recognize Ava’s place in LIHSA’s history and to bridge LIHSA’s past with LIHSA’s future, Lindsay presented her with a seat from the original theater that will be placed in LIHSA’s renovated theater. This is Row A, Seat 1.

Lindsay explains, “It represents a front-row seat to so many moments—performances, risks, growth, and discovery. This chair is a reminder of the countless lives that have been impacted here because of Ava’s vision. This chair will remain at LIHSA, in Ava’s name.”

Special thanks to L’aura Bagdziunas, Kimberly Larkin, and Jerry Nobile for co-chairing this event. Keep scrolling to see photos from the evening.