Starry Night Senior Prom 2025: A Night to Remember
The 2025 Starry Night Senior Prom was nothing short of magical! Seniors, families, and friends gathered for an evening filled with music, dancing, and community connection.
See the highlights in this video created by Addison Visuals:
The Starry Night Senior Prom was organized through a wonderful partnership between Joyce Mayes of Sabathani Community Center, Patricia Jones of Volunteers of America Elder Connection, and Angelique Kingsbury of the Magnet 55+ Program at Westminster Presbyterian Church, which graciously hosted this year’s event.
Highlights of the Night
This year’s entertainment featured the dynamic kAT Project, led by Kathleen Johnson, Kiana Marie (Mayes), and LaMont Keten, whose energy set the stage for nonstop celebration. Whether on the dance floor or grooving in their chairs, attendees couldn’t resist moving to the music.
Our emcee for the evening was Golden Valley Mayor Roslyn Harmon, joined by special guests including Senator Jeff Hayden (with his mother Judy Merrill and aunt Mary Merrill, former Park Board Commissioner and former Interim Executive Director of Sabathani) and Minneapolis Council Member Andrea Jenkins. Their presence underscored the importance of celebrating and honoring our senior community.
Special Additions
Guests enjoyed whimsical photo opportunities with Cycling Without Age, a Starry Night Prom backdrop courtesy of Minneapolis Photobooth, and snapshots by longtime volunteer photographer Val Barrow. Catering was provided by Crossroads Beverage and Catering, and transportation by Minnesota Coaches, LLC.
Volunteers Make It Possible
The heart of the prom is our incredible volunteers—25 in total this year—who greeted guests, guided them to their tables, served food and beverages, danced alongside attendees, and, most importantly, made every senior feel truly seen and celebrated. Many participants shared how deeply special the night made them feel.
Crowning the Prom Royalty
To keep things fair, our king and queen are chosen by ticket drawing. This year’s crown went to Betty Murry and Bill English, who reigned with smiles and joy.
Why We Celebrate
The Starry Night Prom was created to combat senior isolation and provide an uplifting gala experience for those who might not otherwise attend events that often cost $100 or more. While it’s designed for seniors, we welcome guests of all ages, creating a truly intergenerational celebration.
Leading up to prom, we hosted a corsage-making class and a volunteer appreciation luncheon, with plans to expand programming even further. In the future, we hope to establish a “prom closet” for anyone who feels they don’t have the right outfit—though formal attire is never required. The goal is simple: dress up, feel special, and celebrate the senior years with joy!
Looking Ahead
Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, sponsors, and community partners, including Gifts for Seniors, Bluebirds & Blooms, and Nicko Spehn-Keller Williams Realty Integrity Edina, this year’s prom was another unforgettable success.
We can’t wait to celebrate again at our 3rd Annual Starry Night Senior Prom on July 25, 2026. Mark your calendars—it’s sure to be another night to remember!
Interested in sponsoring next year’s prom? Contact Joyce Mayes at jmayes@sabathani.org.
Relive the memories in our photo slideshow (photos by Dani Werner):