Spartanburg High School (SHS) is set for Valentine’s Day with the introduction of its Sadie Hawkins dance. The event is being organized by Interact Club and promises an evening of music, celebration and community impact.
Sadie Hawkins is a tradition with roots dating back to the 1930s. It originated from Al Capp’s “Li’l Abner” comic strip, “Sadie Hawkins Day.” This comic featured a role-reversal event in which women were encouraged to ask men to dance. Over time, the concept evolved into a school dance tradition that challenges outdated norms and promotes inclusivity.
While traditionally associated with asking someone to the dance, SHS’s Sadie Hawkins is designed for everyone. Students do not need to bring a date or ask someone to attend. However, attendance is limited strictly to Spartanburg High School students. Sadie’s will be a formal event, much like the style of the Homecoming dance.
Mahi Patel (9) is excited for a fun night with friends.
“I feel that the Sadie Hawkins dance is a great way to bring people together…I am most excited to spend time with my friends and listen to good music,” Patel said.
The dance will be hosted by Interact Club, a student service organization affiliated with Rotary International. Rotary is a global network of leaders who volunteer to provide service and advance peace and good will worldwide. There are local clubs affiliated with Rotary International in most communities. Interact focuses on leadership development, volunteerism and community service, much like its parent organization. The club gives students hands-on opportunities to make a positive impact in the Spartanburg community.
Ellie Kocisko (11), an active member of Interact, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming dance.
“I think the Sadie’s dance is a good way for students at SHS to interact with each other and it is something new to experience since our school has not hosted a Sadie’s before,” Kocisko said. “I am excited for people to experience the fun music and dancing with their friends and having a fun Valentine’s night.”
Beyond the dance floor, the event serves a greater purpose. Proceeds from the Sadie Hawkins dance will go toward a local initiative supported by the Spartanburg Rotary Club. For this event, Interact has chosen to benefit the Youth Opportunity Grants. Each year, the Spartanburg Rotary Club contributes over $35,000 to the grants. The Youth Opportunity Grants fund nonprofit organizations throughout Spartanburg County that serve at-risk youth. These grants help fund programs that provide mentorship, academic support, enrichment activities and other resources that give young people access to opportunities they might not otherwise have.
Interact members have been active here on campus in preparation for the dance. The club held multiple doughnut sales and a bake sale to raise money and build excitement. These fundraisers gave students a chance to contribute to the event while earning service hours and points, and they helped ensure that the dance could be planned with care and attention to detail.
Sydney Mullman (12), president of Interact, remarked on how the planning process has impacted the club.
“The planning process has really shown teamwork with the officers and club members as we raise money for this event,” Mullman said.
If successful, it may mark the beginning of a lasting tradition at Spartanburg High School, one that blends fun with purpose and showcases the power of student-led initiatives. Tickets go on sale Feb. 2, during all lunches, and Interact Club encourages all SHS students to attend, not just for the memories, but for the difference their participation will make.
