Friends Advancement Monthly Updates

From the Desk of the Director of Institutional Advancement

December 2025 Edition

A Season of Gratitude and Giving

As autumn settles over the city and we enter the season of gratitude, we are reminded of the many ways philanthropy shapes the life of Friends Seminary. Each act of giving, whether of time, talent, or treasure, strengthens the foundation of our community and sustains our mission.

In celebration of National Philanthropy Day, Friends was delighted to welcome Neil Blumenthal '98, co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker, as our featured guest speaker. Neil shared his inspiring journey from his early work with nonprofit organizations to co-founding one of the most socially conscious companies in the country.

He spoke about how his experiences at Friends that were rooted in curiosity, compassion, and responsibility, helped shape his approach to leadership and giving. Through Warby Parker’s Buy a Pair, Give a Pair initiative, Neil and his colleagues have brought the gift of sight to millions around the world, ensuring that families have access to eye care regardless of economic status.

“Philanthropy begins with awareness of our shared humanity and the courage to act in service of others.” — Neil Blumenthal '98, National Philanthropy Day Speaker

His message captured the spirit of this season: generosity is not just about giving back, but about creating opportunities for others to thrive.

Celebrating Philanthropy in All Its Forms

Leading up to National Philanthropy Day, our community reflected on the role of philanthropy in everyday life, the countless ways that students, faculty, parents, caregivers and alumni give of themselves. In the Friends tradition, each of us is a steward of the school, called to ensure that our community has what it needs to grow and flourish.

Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or making a financial gift, we are all philanthropists — acting out of gratitude, care, and a deep belief in our shared mission.

The week-long celebration of philanthropy ended with a successful match challenge. Thanks to the generous commitment of a group of parents towards the $100,000 matching gift, we were able to rally our community in a truly inspiring way. Over the course of the week, families, alumni, and friends responded with tremendous enthusiasm, contributing an additional $340,000 in gifts.

Together, we raised $440,000, the most successful matching challenge in our school’s history. We continue to raise support for the Fund for Friends and you are invited to give today. 

The Fund for Friends: Fueling Our Mission

The Fund for Friends is the cornerstone of philanthropy at Friends Seminary. Each gift, regardless of size, makes a direct and meaningful impact on the educational experience of our students by showing the many people in our community who stand united behind caring for our community of learners. Contributions support classroom innovation, financial aid, faculty development, and co-curricular programs that bring learning to life.

Early gifts and pledges are especially vital. They enable school leadership to plan confidently, knowing that our community stands together in support of our students and teachers.

Looking Ahead

As we move deeper into this school year, the Advancement team is excited to meet alumni, parents, and friends in their neighborhoods. Stay tuned for upcoming regional events, coordinated by Michael, where we will gather to celebrate community, connection, and shared purpose.

We are profoundly grateful for all that you do to sustain Friends Seminary — through your generosity, your time, and your presence. Together, we continue to honor the past, strengthen the present, and build a bright future for our students.

At a Glance: The Power of Philanthropy at Friends

• 100% of students benefit from the Fund for Friends every day.

• Early gifts make it possible for leadership to plan confidently.

  
  

Your participation matters every act of generosity builds a stronger school.

In gratitude,

Marjorie P. Jean-Paul

Director of Institutional Advancement