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Message from the Clerk of the Finance Committee

David Milner

Dear Friends,

Sidwell Friends has long relied on the commitment and generosity of our loyal supporters: current and past parents, alumni, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends.

Through their giving and volunteerism, our donors have strengthened the School and made our comprehensive campaign, Together We Shine, a success. The success of the campaign has grown our endowment by 53%, raised the funds needed to renovate the future site of the Upper School, and strengthened our overall financial health to continue to invest in our financial aid program, faculty compensation and professional development opportunities, and enriching student experiences.

We are delighted to share that over the past year, the School’s financial position has grown stronger than ever.

  • The Together We Shine campaign has raised more than $158 million, which is 105% of the $152 million goal. 
  • Net-tuition revenue provides more than 75% of the School’s income, though philanthropy must continue to increase in importance to reduce our over-reliance on this source of revenue.  
  • The endowment totaled $81 million on June 30. Investment income partially underwrites financial aid, faculty and staff salaries and professional development, and donor-designated programs.
  • The Sidwell Friends Fund provided $3.75 million in essential resources and transformative student experiences, including over $660,000 through the fundraiser Founder’s Day for Scholars in support of student financial aid.

Given the current inflationary environment, the Board and School administration continue to work together to control costs. By doing so, we were able to allocate more than 90% of the latest tuition increase directly to improving faculty and staff salaries and benefits. Our teachers have been called to demonstrate extraordinary creativity and resilience, and rewarding and retaining our remarkable faculty and staff remains a top priority.

Your generosity has a significant impact on the success of the School. Thank you for your continued support and for ensuring that our students will be able to learn with confidence and curiosity for generations to come.

With deep appreciation,

David Milner's signature

David Milner ’86
Clerk, Finance Committee of the Board of Trustees