Our donors, and the beneficiaries of their generosity, have stories to share.
Read their inspiring stories below:
Drummond C. Bell III '63, P'90,'92
As an alumnus, parent of two Taft graduates, trustee of the school, and co-chair of the development committee, I have a deep loyalty for Taft—I'm committed to building a strong future for our great school.
Former Head of School Willy MacMullen '78, P'14,'16
I was asked by a parent, "What legacy do you want to leave?" I recall answering, "I hope to leave the school even stronger than it was when I became head of school."
Hank Brauer ’74 P’08,’09,’10
“It was an elegant way to make a gift to Taft at a time when the school needs our support and for me to save for the future—and receive a competitive return.
Holly Donaldson Casella ‘07
As I approached my tenth reunion in 2017, I reflected on all Taft has given me over the years— a first-class education, opportunities to lead and to take risks, lifelong friends, confidence, and the capability to articulate and pursue ideas, among many other things.
Larry Weidemier ‘59
Larry Weidemier '59 looked once more at the stack of financial planning brochures in front of him. The brochures represented an array of charitable giving plans—all very worthy, all requiring an investment.
Laura B. Whitman ‘85
Senior spring term—isn’t that likely your fondest semester memory at Taft? I remember balmy afternoons with friends, sitting around the Pond talking about legendary pranks like boarding school historians.
Leslie B. Littlejohn, P’03, ‘05
Our children chose Taft because of its size, the sense of community they felt, and the opportunities they would have. Taft was able to support and challenge our children academically as their teachers, coaches, and advisors helped them prepare for their successes in college.
Peter V. Buttenheim ’60, P’84
When I was sent away to Taft School as an Upper Mid in the fall of 1958, I reacted to a new school just as most other teens have over the years.
Stephen Starnes ’76
My grandfather taught history at Hamilton College for over 50 years. In his brief commencement address in 1978, he challenged the graduating class to “remember their benefactors.” It was not only through their own work that these seniors graduated; but it was also the work of their predecessors who made that journey possible.