Dear Friends,

This past year, Friends Seminary came together in extraordinary ways to celebrate our shared mission and strengthen the foundation that supports every student and teacher. Philanthropy at Friends is more than an act of giving; it is an expression of belonging, connection, and faith in our collective capacity to sustain the life of the School. From joyful gatherings such as the Lunar New Year Celebration in support of The Henry Lee '43 Memorial Scholarship Fund and the Celebrating Black and Latinx Excellence benefiting The Larry Carter Legacy Fund, to our Spring Benefit honoring Bo Lauder’s 23 years of transformative leadership, each event reflected the power of community united in purpose. Through these moments, we not only celebrated Friends’ diversity and spirit but also raised vital funds that ensure our mission thrives for generations to come.

Our alumni community played a meaningful role in advancing this spirit of connection. The Alumni Council launched new outreach initiatives, hosting regional receptions and house gatherings that brought alumni together across decades. The Alumni Symposium expanded to include the entire Upper School, offering students the opportunity to learn directly from alumni about life beyond 16th Street—a powerful reminder that the Friends experience continues to shape lives well beyond graduation.

The Fund for Friends, our annual fund, remains the cornerstone of all that we do. Last year, it received more than 1,000 gifts from parents, trustees, alumni, grandparents, and friends, raising $2.8 million with contributions ranging from $5 to $100,000. This remarkable participation speaks volumes about the love and care that define our School. 

We are deeply grateful for the volunteers whose time, talent, and leadership made this success possible.  Thank you to our entire community—our Board of Trustees, parents, alumni, faculty, and staff—for supporting Friends Seminary’s mission and values. Special thanks to the Parents Association and the volunteers from the Alumni Council, Benefit Auction Committee, Contemporary Art Committee, Fund for Friends Co-Chairs and Volunteers, Lunar New Year and Celebrating Black and Latinx Excellence Committee for their tireless efforts and leadership. It is through your generosity, volunteerism, and commitment that Friends Seminary continues to be a place of transformative learning and connection.

We are also encouraged by increased participation among parents and faculty, reflecting a deepening understanding of how philanthropy enriches daily life at Friends—from supporting exceptional teaching and financial aid to nurturing programs that inspire curiosity, creativity, and compassion.

Amid a changing educational landscape, our collective generosity affirms what is constant: a belief in nurturing minds, enriching spirits, and building a more just and peaceful world. As we look ahead, let us continue this shared journey of generosity and engagement. Together, we can ensure that Friends Seminary remains a place where each generation is inspired to learn, lead, and give with purpose.

This year, like in past years, we look to our community’s generosity to care for our school and ensure our students experience the fullness of a Quaker education. If you haven’t already made your gift for this school year, please click here for more information.

With gratitude and hope,
 Marjorie P. Jean-Paul
 Director of Institutional Advancement