As you can see from the above invitation to ‘Classic Cars Under the Stars,’ we’ve already begun activating plans solidified at the most productive Executive Retreat we’ve ever convened. Yes, I know that I say that every year. It’s simply because they keep getting better. Our theme in August was “A Vision Forward,” and we raised the bar. Challenged with an aggressive retreat agenda, we completed a two-year plan for the association aligned with our key objectives in a single session – all of us, together. We had strong turnout, excellent engagement and we accomplished that and more. It’s important you know the substance of that plan, because we are calling upon you urgently to convert words to action, demonstrating the support you express so vocally with school spirit. The urgency of our mandate cannot be overstated. We need all of us to step up, putting the heartfelt to the […]

At this year’s Annual Luncheon, we wasted no time getting down to business. There was palpable energy and camaraderie among alumnae in the beautiful Sheraton Philadelphia convention center that demonstrated our readiness to meet the challenges ahead. Here’s the video that kicked off our meeting.  I opened with… “The class of 2028 has just entered the first grade. Are we preparing for their arrival?” With an eye toward the future, the prevailing themes were threefold: (1) fresh perspective on the challenges faced by young women entering Girls High today, (2) renewed purpose for fulfilling our mission to Girls High students of tomorrow and (3) a sense of urgency about the programs and initiatives we must undertake to meet the needs of the class of 2028 and generations to come. Discussions and forums shifted our orientation from passive to activist engagement in pursuit of preserving and improving the status of Girls […]

With Punxsutawney Phil’s promise that Spring is around the corner, the year is well underway and so are we. February is Black History Month, which carries significant historical resonance for many members. I’m enormously proud of the legacy of African American graduates of Girls High, a heritage too rich to be contained here. From Jessie Redmon Fauset, our first African American graduate (right), to Mary Schmidt Campbell, we have many reasons to be proud. It’s that school pride and passion that stokes our enthusiasm for this year’s initiatives, just a few of which I bring to your attention below. We need to hear from you, Alumnae, and there are multiple ways you can express your views. Alumnae Questionnaire. We thank you, in advance, for completing a brief questionnaire that will assist us in enhancing support and educational opportunities for students of the Philadelphia High School for Girls, which is the […]

As a new class of future leaders settles into the swing of things at Girls High, I’m reminded of the mission and goals of the Alumnae Association of the Philadelphia High School for Girls. Though they may not yet fully grasp its depth and scope, these women, upon graduation in five years, will inherit the legacy we’re creating now by example. Again, I’d like to express my appreciation and respect for the enduring commitment of our leadership and active members. At a vibrant and productive Leadership Retreat last month, we were reminded that challenges are as much a part of our journey as they are part of the curriculum for this incoming class, so we’re neither surprised nor deterred. With fresh perspective and renewed focus we continue promoting, protecting and funding the priorities of GHS. The inaugural GHS Picnic was a success! You’ll find photos from the day on our […]