Photo By Michael Alexander

ATLANTA—A new playground graces the grounds of Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Atlanta. Dedicated Nov. 16, it was constructed for the students in honor of a special IHM alumna, Christine McLellan.

McLellan graduated from the in-town school in 2006 but continued to support the school as an after-school care counselor while she attended Georgia State University.

She had always wanted a new playground for the older students to enjoy, said Melinda Martin, IHM admissions director.

Tricia McLellan, the mother of Christine McLellan, shares some words about her late daughter Christine and the new playground at Immaculate Heart of Mary School, Atlanta, built and dedicated in her memory. Looking on is Immaculate Heart of Mary School principal James Lee. Photo By Michael Alexander

McLellan, 22, unexpectedly passed away in January. And in November, the school dedicated a playground made in her honor. Her parents, Tricia and Joe McLellan, and her sister, Rachael, along with many members of their extended family and close friends were on hand to remember Christine and dedicate the new play space to the students of her school.

Jennifer Sadlack, development director for IHM, said that Christine “was so great with our kids. She would love the fact that we have a wonderful playground” for the students. She assisted the McClellan family in raising funds and selecting the structure for the backfield of the school. Southern Playgrounds helped the family with the construction.

At the dedication, Deacon Bob Hauert blessed the playground and all of the students wore a yellow ribbon on their fingers to remember the young woman, who was also awarded her diploma posthumously from Georgia State later that week.

Officials at Immaculate Heart of Mary School hope that this playground will be phase one of a larger playground improvement project.