Sponsor Spotlight: MC Travel Company - Lisa and James Thompson

Lisa and James Thompson’s support of Shorecrest is a direct response to the experiences of their children, Lexi ’29 and M.J. ’31, who have thrived in areas ranging from academics to athletics since their days in The Experiential School. Both Middle Schoolers are in honors math; and M.J. loves art, music, football, and competing with his sister in their piano playing pursuits. Lexi is a creative writer who is currently loving basketball and exchanging hugs and hellos with her friends’ younger siblings on campus.

In addition to the family’s personal contributions, Lisa’s company has been a four-time community sponsor. “Sponsorship is more than just financial support; it’s about investing in something that truly matters—our children’s education. Shorecrest is dedicated to nurturing future leaders within the St. Petersburg community, a mission we wholeheartedly support.”

Lisa’s foray into the sponsorship program came when the School was employing sponsorship billboards. “I was just beginning to build my agency’s brand with a focus on Disney Destinations, so I had a fun idea for a Cinderella Castle billboard on the Lower School campus — something the kids would enjoy seeing each day.” After her company evolved into MC Travel, which helps clients plan a variety of “dream-worthy adventures,” she continued this type of support.

MC Travel was an event sponsor for the Shorecrest Gala in the School's centennial year because Lisa wanted to be a part of that pivotal moment in the School’s history. She continued supporting Shorecrest events in 2023-2024 as the bar sponsor for the inaugural SCA Soiree. This year MC Travel is the Presenting Sponsor for the Soiree: Shorecrest Royale, which will be held on Saturday, September 21 at The Birchwood. Demonstrating that type of long term commitment is not only a great example for her children, but also to other families who might consider giving back in this way.

Lisa credits the sponsorship staff’s care and professionalism for making sponsorship such an attractive option for local businesses– a way to combine personal financial support with a public platform.

“Sponsoring Shorecrest through MC Travel Company has been incredibly rewarding. Sarah [Heibein] really cares about my brand being seen. She’s so easy to work with, very responsive to ideas and very good at providing new ideas.” 

When another Shorecrest mom, Christy Stross, suggested a company testimonial featuring other Shorecrest families who had used MC Travel, Lisa says, “With a short lead time, we interviewed four people live on campus. Sarah arranged for the videographer while I coordinated the parents, and then we included written testimonials and photos. Not only will it be seen at the event, I can also use parts of it in other ways, like on social media. That has huge value.”

Shorecrest Community Sponsors like Lisa and James Thompson and MC Travel Company connect mission-aligned area businesses with Shorecrest, benefitting the entire school community. If you are interested in learning more about the Shorecrest Community Sponsors program, contact Sarah Heibein, Associate Director of Advancement - Community Partnerships at [email protected].