A Conversation with Laurie Pepitone, Director of Marketing & Communications at the Morris Educational Foundation
If you’ve lived in Morristown for more than five minutes, chances are you’ve heard the buzz about Morristown ONSTAGE—the can’t-miss event that brings our community together, spotlights incredible local talent, and supports public education in a big way. We sat down with Laurie Pepitone, Director of Marketing and Communications for the Morris Educational Foundation (MEF), to talk about what makes this event so special and why it truly has something for everyone.
Q: For those who may be new to the community, what is the Morris Educational Foundation?
Laurie: The Morris Educational Foundation, or MEF, is a nonprofit made up of parents, teachers, business, and community leaders dedicated to enhancing and enriching the educational experience in the Morris School District. Our mission is simple but powerful: we ensure private support is invested in public education so we can make exceptional education extraordinary. We fund grants, award scholarships, offer programs for families and students, honor teachers and students, and host community events that bring people together around education.
Q: Who benefits from the work MEF does?
Laurie: Our work directly benefits students, teachers, and schools throughout the 10 schools in the Morris School District. That includes everything from District-wide initiatives to individual classrooms. We also support families and the broader community through free programs, parent presentations, tutoring, and alumni connections. When education thrives, the whole community benefits.
Q: Let’s talk about the event everyone loves—what exactly is Morristown ONSTAGE?
Laurie: Morristown ONSTAGE is our premier fundraiser and truly the must-see community event of the year. It’s a live talent showcase featuring the best amateur performers from Morristown, Morris Township, and Morris Plains, as well as alumni of Morristown High School. You’ll see performers of all ages and talents—singing, dancing, comedy, and more—on one incredible stage. It’s inspiring, entertaining, and so much fun for the whole family.
Q: When and where is ONSTAGE happening this year?
Laurie: Morristown ONSTAGE will be live at the Mayo Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. There’s nothing like seeing local talent shine on such an iconic stage, it makes the night feel extra special. Anyone can attend and you can purchase TICKETS HERE.
Q: Who is eligible to participate in Morristown ONSTAGE?
Laurie: Eligibility is one of the things that makes ONSTAGE so inclusive. Performers must live, work, worship, receive talent training, or attend school in Morristown, Morris Township, or Morris Plains, or be alumni of Morristown High School. We love that it brings together kids, teens, adults, and even multi-generational acts—it truly reflects our community.
Q: How does the competition work, and what’s at stake for participants?
Laurie: A panel of distinguished arts and entertainment professionals judges the competition. This year 14 finalists will perform live, and there are two first-place cash prizes of $1,000 each. But honestly, beyond the prizes, it’s about the experience, performing on a professional stage, being celebrated by the community, and supporting public education at the same time.
Q: Why is Morristown ONSTAGE so important to MEF and the schools you support?
Laurie: ONSTAGE is our largest fundraiser, and the funds raised go directly back into the school District through cutting-edge instructional tools, innovative enrichment, and real-world experiences that elevate education.
Whether you’re cheering from the audience, supporting a performer, or discovering your new favorite local star, Morristown ONSTAGE is one of those feel-good nights that reminds you why community matters. Mark your calendars—this is one family event you won’t want to miss. 🎭✨
Whether you’re cheering from the audience, supporting a performer, or discovering your new favorite local star, Morristown ONSTAGE is one of those feel-good nights that reminds you why community matters. Mark your calendars—this is one family event you won’t want to miss. 🎭✨
