JACKSONVILLE— St. Johns Classical Academy, a Hillsdale College Member School, will be recognized for its academic distinction at the upcoming 250th Anniversary Gala. 

The event will take place on Sept. 19 at the Deerwood Castle and Sports Car Museum. The Gala celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary and commemorates the 181st anniversary of Hillsdale College’s contributions to American classical education.

Leadership and staff from the Fleming Island and Orange Park Campuses of St. Johns Classical Academy will be honored for their dedication to academic excellence and a traditional liberal arts curriculum.

Hosted by the We Can Be Heroes Foundation, the Gala also serves as a fundraising benefit for the Black Creek Young Marines. The group looks to represent the community in the 85th National Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Hawaii in December.

The Black Creek Young Marines is a military-based youth program focusing heavily on drug-demand reduction, leadership and discipline. It is open to boys and girls ages 8-18.

With more than 80 young marines, the Commander Mindy Wood said the award-winning program has continued to help them find who they are by teaching the importance of self-confidence, academic achievement, good citizenship and community service.

In addition to marching in the parade, the group will also participate in the Hanolua Bay Beach Cleanup and the Punch Bowl Sunrise Ceremony.

"It's a huge accomplishment for these young marines," Wood said. "They worked very hard at drill and at home as well. I'm very excited and I hope that this gala is very successful."

During the gala, guests will experience high-end dining, elite networking opportunities, entertainment and addresses from powerful national speakers.

Reservations are open online for the 5 p.m. VIP Reception and the 6 p.m. dinner. Tickets and details can be found by searching online for "250th at Deerwood Castle." Ticket sales end on Sept. 6th.