The Morgan Center 2020 Combined Graduation featured on WRDQ Eyewitness News 9 - June 19, 2020

Via Corbett Public Relations

Preschoolers battling cancer recently participated in a special virtual graduation program at The Morgan Center (TMC). Students at The Morgan Center in New York celebrated its 17th commencement and this year the first class from the Orlando Florida program saw its first group of students graduate. This joint event made 2020 the largest graduating class for The Morgan Center in its 17 -year history. A total of 28 students between its two schools participated in this remote program along with teachers, staff parents and special guests.

Following a challenging year which saw both programs combine their programs into one internet class/Zoom program over the past 12 weeks due to the suspension of in-person programs because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the virtual ceremony was a bright moment for these brave students and families. Dressed in white caps and gowns, the students performed a graduation ‘concert’ before receiving their diplomas and recognition from 21-year-old and childhood cancer survivor Morgan Zuch, of whom The Morgan Center is named. Morgan’s parents, Nancy and Rod Zuch, Co-Founders of The Morgan Center also presented diplomas. Among celebrity guests remotely in attendance were 4-time Stanley Cup Champion and NHL Hall of Fame member Clark Gilles, and 2-time MLB World Series Champion Buddy Harrelson.

This program was so important for one student and her family that she actually participated from the hospital while receiving her chemotherapy treatment.

The Morgan Center, a preschool program for children battling cancer, is the first of its kind in the nation and was founded in New York in 2003. The Morgan Center marked its first expansion with the Orlando program in Florida in the Fall of 2019. This is the 17th graduation for the NY program and the inaugural ceremony for the Orlando program.

The Morgan Center, is offered free of charge to the children, making it accessible for all families of preschool age children battling cancer. Operating expenses are covered by private donations and fundraising. The program provides preschool age children with cancer a safe environment that stimulates their cognitive and social development and also gives parents a place to meet other parents who are going through similar challenging experiences. Through The Morgan Center, families develop a support system and gain lasting friendships.

“Graduation day is a special time for our children and families. This year, through use of technology, we were able to bring everyone from our two locations together. Our mission is to give preschool children who are battling cancer an opportunity to have a safe and healthy school environment, interact with others, learn and develop important social skills. When Morgan battled cancer when she was 2 years old, we were isolated for 3 years due to her suppressed immune system. This pandemic has now given the world an understanding of how isolation and fear of germs impacts a family of a child battling cancer; this is why we created The Morgan Center 17 years ago,” said Nancy Zuch, Director and Co-founder of The Morgan Center.

Using technology, the graduates were able to see their teachers, classmates and hear their encouraging words as well as enjoy singing and cheerful musical performances as they celebrated their achievements.

If you would like more information on The Morgan Center, please contact nancy@themorgancenter.org or call 631-748-5780.

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