Providing a transformative educational experience for our scholars is at the heart of our mission at Girard College. As we approach the final months of another exciting academic year, we are continuing to build upon our legacy of innovation and excellence and providing a supportive learning environment for our students.
This issue offers a look at some of the incredible strides we have made as an institution, from the innovative STEM programs being offered to students to the reintroduction of the weekend residential program this school year, giving our scholars even more opportunities for growth, connection and success.
Our cover story highlights the work that Marquita Lewis, our new STEM director, is doing to introduce programs that will help our scholars embrace the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and equip them with critical thinking, problem-solving, and technical skills that are essential for the modern workforce.
The reintroduction of the weekend residential program last fall has been another exciting development, and a small group of students now live on campus seven days a week where they receive additional support and participate in a variety of activities.
With sadness, we remember William “Bill” Seibert, Jan. ’48, a beloved alumnus whose passing has left a void in our hearts. Bill’s love for Girard College is legendary, and he passed his lifelong devotion on to his eight daughters who have become special members of our extended school community. You can read more about Bill and his legacy in the Alumni News section.
This edition of the magazine also includes a look back at the history of the Good Friends and Lafayette buildings, an alumni spotlight, and much more school news.
We look forward to welcoming you back to campus for Founder’s Day. Details are inside this issue.
I hope you enjoy reading about all the exciting developments at Girard!
David P. Hardy President
2101 S COLLEGE AVE
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19121
GIRARD COLLEGE
DAVID P. HARDY
CLARENA TOLSON Senior Advisor to the President
TUMAR ALEXANDER Vice President, Operations
DOREEN HEISTER Interim Controller
CEDRIC HALL Vice President, Student Experience
JESSICA HEINTZ Principal, Elementary & Middle School
MICHAEL P. MEEHAN, ESQ. HON. PAUL P. PANEPINTO DOMINIC A. SABATINI
BERNARD W. SMALLEY, ESQ.
HON. MARK F. SQUILLA
EX OFFICIO
HON. CHERELLE L. PARKER
Mayor of Philadelphia
HON. JEFFERY YOUNG, JR.
(For President of City Council of Philadelphia)
JOSEPH P. BILSON
Executive Director
OUR MISSION
4 SCHOOL NEWS Weekend Residential Program Resumes at Girard
7 FEATURE STEM at Girard College: Envisioning the Possibilities
12 NEWS BRIEFS Girard College Dedicates iWall in Founder’s Hall
14 AROUND CAMPUS Founder’s Hall Ceiling Conservation Project Underway
17 ALUMNI NOTES André Davis ’15 Girard College’s Jack of All Trades
Girard College is a full-scholarship boarding school that fosters intellectual curiosity, social development, and emotional growth in academically focused students from underserved communities. We ensure every student the opportunity and the means to achieve excellence and preparation for advanced education through purposeful academic and residential programs.
For much of Girard College’s existence, students lived on campus full time. In 2009, the school transitioned to a fiveday boarding schedule to reduce operating expenses.
In response to an increased demand for full-time boarding, President David Hardy implemented a weekend program last October for up to 25 students. This initiative, which is one of President Hardy’s 2024–2026 Strategic Priorities, addresses the need for weekend housing and programming for students in all grades.
Twelve students are currently enrolled in the program, according to Anya Johnson ’14, weekend program coordinator. Some students joined the program but later withdrew for various reasons, she added.
Throughout the weekend, students have the opportunity to complete school assignments, participate in physical activities and games, attend social gatherings, and learn new life skills. Off-campus activities also are organized for the students.
Weekend Routine
On Friday afternoons, students attend a check-in meeting with Johnson and the weekend residential advisors. During these meetings, she tells the students about planned activities happening that weekend, recognizes students who are celebrating birthdays, and welcomes any new students to the weekend program.
The students have dinner and then have personal time in their dorms afterward. Saturdays and Sundays usually include a mixture of activities—laundry, physical fitness, schoolwork, or special outings.
Johnson said that students recently completed a survey about their interests to help her tailor the program even more to meet their needs.
“I love that every weekend I can add something new,” she said.
“It’s been wonderful to see the impact of the resources available for them through the weekend program.”
Johnson noted that the students have time to relax and enjoy the additional space they have while living on campus over the weekend.
“There are so few students, they practically have the entire campus to themselves,” said Johnson, who began working at Girard as a middle school residential advisor in 2021.
“I think they really love it.”
Working with the students during the weekend gives Johnson and the residential advisors the opportunity to focus on helping the students work on their social skills and general life skills.
“I’m excited to see these students in a different light from working with them
Emajae Collins ’28, left, and Aryn Clark ’26 work on a craft project at the LeFleur Craft & Gift Shop during a recent off-campus outing.
Ah’sir Bowie ‘33 enjoys a visit to a craft shop with other students in the weekend residential program.
on the residential side during the week where there’s more structure, and it’s more focused on academics,” she said.
Learning Life Skills
The students in the weekend program learn valuable life skills such as doing their laundry and expanding their culinary knowledge.
Johnson said doing laundry gives older students the opportunity to mentor the younger students.
“Our older students have the chance to help the younger students, give them some advice, and show them how to do things,” she said. “It’s a task they do where you can see a lot of engagement from them.”
On Sunday mornings, the students participate in a meditation exercise, eat brunch, and finish doing their laundry. In the afternoon, they gather to make baked goods or other food items. Clarena Tolson, Senior Advisor to the President, has been facilitating STEM baking/cooking sessions where students learn how to use math skills while preparing different types of food. The baked goods are often served as dessert at Sunday night dinner.
“They’re always baking something, and I love that what they’re baking is getting more and more complex,” Johnson said. “The students are learning so much.”
Family visitation happens from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., and then the students gather to eat dinner afterward.
“Parents will come up, bring any supplies the students may need, or some parents want to have dinner with their students, check on them, and talk with them,” Johnson said.
After dinner the students return to their dorm rooms to prepare for the upcoming school week.
Benefits of Weekend Program
For Zyayre Thime, a junior at Girard, the weekend program has helped him focus more on his schoolwork.
“My grades have gone up since I’ve been in the weekend program,” Zyayre said. “It just gives me more time to focus on my academics.”
He has enjoyed the more relaxed atmosphere on the weekends.
“It’s more fun, and it gives you time to relax and sleep in a little bit,” Zyayre
said. “I do miss being at home, but at the same time, they make it fun here.”
Zyayre aspires to be an emergency room nurse and plans to major in nursing at La Salle University or Louisiana State University.
Living in the dorms at Girard has helped Zyayre feel more prepared for college life. “In college, we have to shower together and sleep with roommates, so I feel like this gets you ready for that college level,” he added.
Serenity Barnes, an eighth grader at Girard, also has seen her grades improve since she began participating in the weekend program.
“It’s been helpful because before I would go home, and I wouldn’t get my schoolwork done,” Serenity said. “Being here with my friends, they can
continued on page 6
Tommy Nguyen ’25, Jason Brennen ’27, and Mazier Brennen ’28 pour acrylic paint on a bear at the LeFleur Craft & Gift Shop.
Girard students, from left, Ke’Myla Wilson, De’Raye Thomas, Ah’Sir Bowie, Tommy Nguyen ’25, Ndeye Mbaye, and J’Adore Jacques participate in a STEM baking class with Clarena Tolson, Senior Advisor to the President, in the HUM building on Sunday afternoons.
continued from page 5
help me with my work, and I can be productive and get it done during study hall.”
She also has enjoyed staying on campus all week.
“It’s a lot more comfortable than going home and then coming back and making that constant switch,” Serenity said.
She and other Girard students recently had the opportunity to participate in an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority event at Temple University.
“We got to make friends with students from other schools, create vision boards, and share what we thought our future was going to be like,” Serenity said.
Overall, Serenity has had a positive experience since transferring to Girard in sixth grade.
“I’d say it’s fun, but it’s a lot academically,” she said. “Girard
challenges you to get you where you need to be (academically). Right now, some eighth graders are taking Algebra 1, and we’re taking Spanish and French courses, so by the time we get to high school, we will be prepared.”
Impact of a Girard Education
As a Girard alumna, Johnson has personally experienced the difference a Girard education can make in a person’s life.
Johnson’s older sister did not want to go to a boarding school, so her mother made the difficult decision to send her daughters to different schools.
The impact of her Girard education is noticeable to Johnson even now that she and her sister are young adults.
“I can see a significant difference in our independence in the way we carry ourselves today and in the relationships we made growing up,” Johnson said. “Once I graduated
high school, I definitely felt way more prepared for the world.”
The core values that Girard instills in students, the community environment, and the mentoring she received as a student all had a positive impact on Johnson.
“You could find mentorship from almost anybody on this campus because it’s such a closeknit community,” she added.
Johnson is grateful that her mother decided to enroll her at Girard.
“It was a wonderful opportunity that my mom gave me, and I appreciate how it molded me because Girard offered me so much,” she said.
Johnson jumped at the opportunity to work as a residential advisor at Girard because she wanted to help with the personal and academic development of current students. On any given day she may need to serve as a tutor, a hairdresser, a baker or a therapist.
“Whatever my students need is what my job is,” she said. “That is what is so rewarding about being able to give back to the students today. I love every minute of it.”
Gianna Stover ’31 pours hot sauce into a bowl as Ndeye Mbaye ’27 mixes the ingredients to make buffalo chicken dip for a Super Bowl party in the Hum building.
Anya Johnson ‘14 braids the hair of Gianna Stover ‘31 during a recent Sunday gathering for students in the weekend program.
S T E M AT GIRARD COLLEGE:
Envisioning the Possibilities
Stoking students’ interest in science, technology, engineering and math and helping them discover the wide array of STEM career opportunities is Marquita Lewis’ mission as Girard College’s new STEM Director.
Lewis is committed to providing innovative STEM programs that help students explore how STEM skills are applied across various career fields.
“You never know what they encounter today and how it could shape their future tomorrow,” she said.
Lewis earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology and General Science, along
with her teaching certification, from Cheyney University. She also holds a Master of Arts in the Art of Teaching from Marygrove College in Detroit, Michigan. Lewis recently completed her Master of Science in Educational Administration, with Supervisor of Curriculum, and Instruction at Gwynedd Mercy University.
Throughout her educational career, Lewis has witnessed how science can spark curiosity and transform students’ lives. Her passion for STEM and her desire to inspire students to engage with science led her to pursue the STEM Director position at Girard.
“When I read the job description, I thought, ‘Wow, this sounds neat and something I could do.’ I’ve always believed that every student deserves the same opportunity to excel and be exposed to the best. Helping to establish a STEM center where students have access to state-ofthe-art resources would be the ideal environment for them to thrive.”
The architect for the STEM Center has been selected, and approvals for the facility are pending.
“We are looking toward the summer of 2027 for a completion date to be able to open when students arrive in the fall of 2027,” Lewis said.
continued on page 8
I’ve always believed that every student deserves the same opportunity to excel and be exposed to the best. Helping to establish a STEM center where students have access to state-of-the-art resources would be the ideal environment for them to thrive.
—MARQUITA LEWIS, STEM DIRECTOR
continued from page 7
“The center isn’t meant to replace the classrooms,” she explained. “We will continue to have traditional classrooms in the high school, while the STEM Center will serve as a hands-on lab for projects and experiments.”
Although the new STEM Center will take a few years to complete, Lewis ensured that every grade participated in at least one STEM program this school year. Additionally, she is designing curriculum for each grade level, set to be implemented in the 2025–2026 academic year.
“We are trying to incorporate the whole campus into the STEM curriculum development,” she said. “I also want to make sure our curriculum meets the new STEELS (Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy & Sustainability) standards that are being implemented across the state this fall.”
Lewis has been actively forging partnerships with community organizations throughout this school year. Collaborations include the University of Pennsylvania, Community College of Philadelphia’s Jr. STEM Program, the Urban Youth Racing School, Design Science, the University City Science Center, the Girls Inc. Eureka! program, and the Enhancing Our Environment program offered by the Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
She also is creating connections with valuable summer internship opportunities for high school students. One such opportunity is the Penn Research Experience, where Girard is among a few select private schools invited to participate in the program this summer. Additionally, Naval STEM Interns offers another prestigious summer internship, and
Girard senior Saadir Sommers has been selected as an apprentice for the 2025 Office of Naval Research Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program.
Lewis secured $10,000 worth of equipment from the Community College of Philadelphia’s Jr. STEM Academy to create a makerspace in the Elementary and Middle School building. The equipment includes a 3D printer, two robotic arms, 15 different LEGO kits, and micro:bits for coding projects, science fair presentation materials, and a microscope. Lewis also received a generous donation from Target for science supplies.
This past fall, Lewis introduced eighth graders to the Future Techstyles program at the University City Science Center, while high school students had the opportunity to participate in the Urban Youth
Eighth graders Kyla Simmons, Lee’Yah Dyson and Kyiah Andrews explain their Selfie Booster Mirror prototype to Girard College STEM Director Marquita Lewis during the Future Techstyles showcase at the Science Center in University City.
Racing School (UYRS) at Harrisburg University in Center City Philadelphia. (See Racing School story by Gabe Grant ’27 on page 11.)
Channing Scott, a Girard sophomore, enjoyed gaining more knowledge about cars and the history of racing at UYRS.
“I learned about how black racers weren’t allowed to race so they made their own auto race called the Gold and Glory Sweepstakes,” she said.
At first, Channing didn’t want to take the course because she was not interested in engineering.
Despite her reservations, she enjoyed learning about race car design, aerodynamics, racing terminology, and how to navigate the track where she and her classmates drove electric Go Karts.
“I learned I’m good at driving,” said Channing, who placed second in the championship race at the end of the course.
University of Pennsylvania graduate student Steven Gassner explains an electromagnetism concept to seventh grade students.
Learning About Technology and E-textiles
Eighth grader Kaleb Ryan described the Future Techstyles program as “challenging but fun.”
Kaleb and his classmates learned how to apply design thinking to create new uses for e-textiles and wearable technology. They also learned how to code and sew material.
Initially, Kaleb was uncertain if he would like the coding part of the course.
“I’m not too into coding, but it ended up being fun,” he said. “I learned how to code little devices to do whatever I needed them to do.”
For the Future Techstyles final showcase, he and his teammates Jayden Peterson and Tahmir Davis designed a blanket made with antimicrobial material that adjusted its temperature based on a person’s body heat.
The blanket was one of five projects the eighth graders created for the
continued on page 10
Eighth grade students are pictured with their certificates of achievement after presenting their electronic devices at the Future Techstyles Final Showcase last December at the Science Center in University City.
continued from page 9
showcase at FirstHand Labs in the University City Science Center. Each team had to create a new product, design a prototype of the product, and make a poster describing its purpose.
Other projects included a programmable wrist device that prevented unauthorized access to buildings, a lighted mirror that displayed positive affirmations, a safety device for children that alerted parents if their child was in danger, and a stuffed animal with a button that displayed positive messages.
Overall Kaleb enjoyed the opportunity to participate in the new STEM program.
“I ended up liking it, and it was a positive experience,” he said. “Now I know I have a little bit of that knowledge I can use if I want to go down that path.”
Vision for STEM Education
Lewis’ vision for STEM education at Girard is to cultivate the critical thinking and problem-solving skills of all students.
“When first graders enter Girard, regardless of their prior STEM experience, they will leave first grade as budding scientists,” Lewis said. “By the time they reach high school, teachers will take on more of a facilitator role, while students independently operate STEM center equipment with minimal assistance, allowing them to engage in innovative projects and explore new, advanced content.”
Lewis also envisions collaborating with corporations that would utilize the STEM Center, providing internship opportunities for Girard high school students within the facility. Additionally, she aims to open the STEM Center to the broader community, allowing it to serve as a hub for STEM conferences, competitions, and workshops. By creating a space where students, professionals, and community members can engage in hands-on STEM experiences, Girard will further solidify its role as a leader in STEM education and innovation.
As the center’s development progresses, Lewis remains committed to introducing innovative programs that equip students with valuable skills while deepening their understanding of STEM concepts.
“I’m excited about what’s ahead and discovering programs I know they’ll enjoy,” she said. “I want students to develop problem-solving skills, think critically, and confidently say, ‘I can do this.’”
Eighth graders Morgan Williams, Samirah Melendez-Rambert and Lisa Marie Small show their Panboozie device to Jessica Heintz, principal of the Elementary and Middle School at Girard College, during the Future Techstyles Showcase.
Seventh grader Abdoulaye Camara works on an electromagnetism experiment during a recent educational session with Community College of Philadelphia’s Jr. STEM Academy.
Seventh grader Amahya Lopez wraps wire around a metal rod during an electromagnetism experiment facilitated by Community College of Philadelphia’s Jr. STEM Academy, the University of Pennsylvania, and iPraxis.
Racing Into the Future: The Urban Youth Racing School Experience
Situated at the crossroads of motorsports and STEM education, the Urban Youth Racing School (UYRS) offers an exciting and potentially life-changing experience for students. During the 10-week training course, participants received hands-on exposure to the design of race cars, driving techniques, and science applied to high-speed motorsports.
For students like me, this program has been no less than extraordinary.
From the very first day of the course, UYRS staff and special guest speakers introduced students to the world of car racing and innovation. We were fortunate to have the opportunity to hear from pioneering automotive designer Ed Welburn, who became the first Black man to lead General Motors’ global design team. His comments about the creative process—runways, cars, and everything in between— illustrated how the application of STEM can change the face of the world. Learning about Black pioneers
in motorsports and the design and development work that Welburn did on the Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro cars, further enriched this experience by connecting us to that legacy of innovation and perseverance.
The business side of the sport also was emphasized during the program, and experts shared their marketing and sponsorship insights with us. Practical sessions included deciphering racing terms such as “oversteer” and learning about flags and other commands on the track. Reggie Showers, a two-time motorcycle drag racing world champion and an UYRS instructor, taught us about the science of aerodynamics as we designed and made CO2 powered model cars.
The program culminated in competitive racing experiences that were remarkably professional. From the preparation for accident scenarios to mastering techniques like drafting and braking, every week brought us one step closer to driving on the track. In week six, we raced
electric-powered Go Karts, honing skills such as apex turns and speed control. These skills would be put to the test in a championship race, with the top performers joining UYRS’ elite youth racing league and having the opportunity to compete nationally and internationally.
This program isn’t just about racing; it’s a launching pad for aspiring engineers, marketers, and drivers. The lessons extend beyond the track, instilling discipline, collaboration, and confidence. For anyone at Girard College with a passion for cars or curiosity about STEM, UYRS offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to discover your potential and blaze your own trail.
Gabriel Grant is a 10th grade student at Girard College.
Girard high school students attended classes at the Urban Youth Racing School where they learned about the many ways that science is used in racing.
Girard high school students practice on race car simulators at the Urban Youth Racing School last fall.
Girard College Dedicates iWall in Founder’s Hall
LastOctober, family and friends of Bill Seibert Jan ’48 gathered with Girard College staff and supporters to dedicate the iWall installed in the lobby of Founder’s Hall. The interactive video display has a custom-built 4K touch screen that gives users an enriching handson experience through engaging storytelling.
The iWall showcases the philanthropic history of Girard College and how current supporters honor Stephen
Seibert Jan ’48 spoke during the iWall dedication ceremony.
MLK Day of Service at Girard College
Girard College served as the host site for Global Citizen’s 30th annual Greater Philadelphia Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service on Jan. 20. Girard College President David Hardy, Todd Bernstein, president of Global Citizen, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Philadelphia School District Superintendent Dr. Tony Watlington Sr. spoke during the opening ceremony. Several organizations participated in the annual Day of Service, including Independence Blue Cross, the Book Trust, and Reading Captains.
Bill Seibert and his family look at the iWall display in Founder’s Hall which was dedicated last October. In top left photo, Stuart George, board member of the Fund for Girard College, listens to Bill talk about the iWall project.
Girard’s legacy, playing a crucial role in empowering the next generation of scholars to achieve their full potential.
President David Hardy thanked Bill and his family for generously donating the funding for this technological addition to Founder’s Hall which will help visitors learn about Girard’s legacy and his vision for providing transformative educational opportunities for young people.
President Hardy unveiled the iWall, and guests had the opportunity to see it in action. A placard has been placed on the iWall with the inscription, “Gifted by William F. Seibert (Class of 1948) and wife, Joan I. Seibert to preserve the legacy of Girard College.”
Editor’s note: Sadly, Bill passed away on Jan. 4, 2025. A tribute to him is on page 18.
William
North College Avenue Renamed Freedom Fighters Way
On October 4, 2024, Councilmember Jeffery Young Jr. ’04, along with Girard College, hosted a renaming ceremony of North College Avenue as Freedom Fighters Way in honor of legendary local civil rights activists.
Several Freedom Fighters spoke about what it was like to fight for the desegregation of the school in the 1960s, and Carl Riley ’78 and Owen Gowans III ’79, two of the first four Black students to enter Girard College, expressed their appreciation for the Freedom Fighters who helped pave the way for them to attend the school.
The Girard College choir and band performed “We Shall Overcome,” and the color guard led a march around the wall of the school to Founder’s Hall.
Among the attendees were fourth grade students from Germantown Friends Academy who had proposed the street renaming to Councilmember Young. In 2023, Kenneth Salaam, a.k.a. Freedom Smitty, one of the Freedom Fighters who protested outside Girard College, led a series of assemblies with lower
school students. Following the assemblies, the then third graders wanted to honor Freedom Smitty, so their teacher, Andrea L’Tainen, encouraged them to write persuasive essays to convince Councilmember Young to support legislation for the honorary street renaming.
Girard College staff, the Freedom Fighters, and teachers and parents from Germantown Friends helped gather the signatures needed to petition for the name change. Philadelphia City Council approved the resolution on June 13, 2024.
reception following the street renaming ceremony last October. Joining him are Freedom Fighter Karen Asper Johnson, and Bernie Smalley, Esq., former president of the Board of Directors of City Trusts.
Girard College President David Hardy, left, is joined by Cecil B. Moore Freedom Fighter Richard Watson, Carl Riley ’78, City Councilmember Jeffrey Young Jr. ’04, Owen Gowans ’74 and Freedom Fighter Jibril Abdul Jaleel.
The Girard High School Choir performed “We Shall Overcome” during the renaming ceremony of North College Avenue to Freedom Fighters Way.
President David Hardy holds the new Freedom Fighters Way street sign at the
Founder’s Hall Ceiling Conservation Project Underway
Thestenciled ceiling in Founder’s Hall is getting a much-needed facelift, thanks to a grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) and the Girard College Alumni Association for generously providing the needed matching funds.
The ceiling is the oldest existing painted finish in Founder’s Hall and is listed as one of the building’s significant character-defining features, according to a 2010 preservation easement with PHMC.
While the ceiling treatment is not original to the 1840’s construction of Founder’s Hall, the stencil work dates to 1890, when the room was renovated as a new museum space for the Stephen Girard collection, previously housed upstairs.
Records show that noted Germanborn decorative painter George Herzog was hired to paint the ceiling. Herzog is perhaps best known for the painting of Philadelphia’s Masonic Temple, which was designed by James Windrim, a Girard alumnus and frequent campus architect, who may have led Herzog to Founder’s Hall.
In addition to its age and designer, the ceiling is significant because of its materials and preservation. A 2021 conservation assessment notes that the stenciling is made of aluminum leaf applied over a green oil-paint background. This represents a very early use of decorative aluminum, since a commercially viable process of producing the metal had only been developed in 1886.
The ceiling is also notable for the high degree of original material that has survived; preparatory line drawings and tracing remain around the painted elements.
Conservators from Johnson & Griffiths are working more than 15 feet in the air, carefully removing 125 years of coal soot and grime, stabilizing the plaster and paint on the ceiling, removing non-historic overpaint, inpainting the background and stencil elements and applying protective coatings where needed.
The conservation project is expected to be finished in April, just in time for prom, Founder’s Day, and other endof-year festivities.
Conservators Emily Elliott, above, and Jacintha Kruc, right, are are restoring the stenciled green ceiling in Founder’s Hall. The project is expected to be completed by April.
Fitness Center Opens in Armory Field House
In early February, the Girard College community celebrated the grand opening of the new fitness center in the Armory Field House. The center, designed to prioritize the well-being of both students and staff, provides a convenient space dedicated to physical fitness.
President David Hardy, along with student-athletes Celise Purnell ’27 and Cole Mangum ’27, cut the ribbon to officially open the space.
Creating a fitness center on campus was one of the initiatives that President Hardy wanted to accomplish as part of the school’s strategic plan to enhance the student experience at Girard. The center provides a completely updated
training space for student-athletes and allows for a more personalized and holistic approach to wellness in the high school physical education curriculum.
Located on the lower level of the Armory, the center is equipped with state-of-the-art fitness equipment as well as mirrors and TVs. This new space, which is more than double the size of the previous fitness center, also has new flooring and freshly painted walls. A representative from Webster’s Fitness designed the space and helped select the equipment for the center.
During the grand opening ceremony, students and staff also celebrated the addition of two new passenger vans.
Guy Moore, Director of Athletics at Girard College, spoke about the importance of having new equipment for student-athletes to use for training.
The ribbon on two new passenger vans also was cut during the Fitness Center grand opening ceremony.
Cole Magnum ’27 and Celise Purnell ’27 helped cut the ribbon on the new fitness center in the Armory Field House during a recent grand opening ceremony. President David led celebration of the new center.
Lafayette & Good Friends Gothic Giants:
Girard College opened in 1848 with 100 students, but in Stephen Girard’s will, he asked that the school take as many students “as the said income shall be adequate to maintain.” As student enrollment approached 1,000 students in the 1880s, Girard College urgently needed more dormitory space to accommodate the hundreds of applicants awaiting admission.
Buildings 8 & 9, later known as Lafayette and Good Friends, were the answer to this need. Construction for Building #8 began in 1880, and it opened as a dormitory for middle school students in 1882. In 1927, Girard College buildings received names instead of numbers and Building #8 was christened for the Marquis de Lafayette, whom Girard had met on the French nobleman’s U.S. tour in 1824.
Building #9 broke ground in 1885 and opened a year later. It would become Good Friends, named for one of Girard’s ships. Both of the massive three-story dormitories were designed by Girard alumnus James H. Windrim, Class of 1856, the architect for the Board of Directors of City Trusts, and they were in the Collegiate Gothic style popular on 19th-century campuses.
Lafayette Hall was not only a dormitory but had a massive 120 feet by 95 feet dining hall at its rear, which could seat over 1,000 individuals. The dining room’s maximum capacity was pushed to serve an additional 200 students in the 1920s due to the growing student population. At that time, Girard College undertook efforts to reorganize residential life into smaller units and as a result,
Lafayette’s dining hall was remodeled and divided into four separate dining rooms in 1928. About half of the middle school students continued to eat in Lafayette while the rest were assigned to the newly-built Dining and Services Building (now Banker Hall).
By the 1940s, the 60-yearold dormitories required major renovations, but their interior layouts were considered too expensive to repurpose. In 1945, Girard College planned to demolish both Lafayette and Good Friends to build a larger dormitory building with dorm rooms of two to four students, but declining postwar enrollment led to the school abandoning this idea.
Good Friends and the rear portion of Lafayette were closed in 1947. Lafayette remained in use as a dormitory, and in 1952, it was fitted with interior toilets. (Previously, both buildings had toilets in an outbuilding). Lafayette finally closed as a dormitory in 1957, although the school student center remained in the former dining hall until the building was torn down. Both Lafayette and Good Friends were demolished in 1960, and a soccer field was built on that location a year later.
Students are pictured in this 1941 photo enjoying activities in the Good Friends building.
André Davis ’15
GIRARD COLLEGE’S JACK OF ALL TRADES
André Davis, a Girard College alumnus and employee, is a creative and innovative individual whose passions took him from being a student at Girard to being one of the most sought after people on campus. In his role as audiovisual specialist, he handles the distribution and maintenance of Smart Boards, projectors, and printers, and manages the recording of live events for the school. He also is involved in the Scouting program and coaches soccer and chess teams at Girard. You could say he’s become a jack of all trades.
During his time as a student, he was quiet and curious, often describing his experience as a “home away from home” with a caring culture. He entered Girard as a third grader and remained until he graduated in 2015. He also credited the advocacy efforts of his classmate Brandon Dixon to keep the residential side of the school open in 2013 when the Board of Directors of City Trusts had proposed suspending the boarding and high school programs to ensure the financial stability of the school.
André Davis ‘15, an audiovisual specialist at Girard, has been working at the school for more than four years. He also coaches and is Scoutmaster of Girard’s Boy Scout Troop.
As a student, André participated in sports and played soccer, basketball, and tennis, and he also played chess. He mentioned that several teachers, including Ms. Bowman, Ms. Bennett, Ms. Lewis, and Ms. Mcinerary had a significant impact on him. He also highlighted the influence of his residential advisors, Mr. Stewart, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Drummond, Mr. Johnson, and Mr. Kirby, who provided guidance on life outside the school and helped him become “mentally tough.”
After André graduated from Girard, he attended the Art Institute of Philadelphia. However, classmates and family members encouraged him not to attend the school. They told him it would be “boring,” and he wouldn’t be able to make friends. Ironically, the exact opposite happened. Although André was a commuter student, he loved the school and was able to make great connections with people from different backgrounds, most of whom he is still friends with today.
After graduating from the Art Institute, André landed a tech position with the School District of Philadelphia which led to a TV studio production role at the Philadelphia School District Television Studio. He eventually returned to Girard College as an overnight security guard and later began overseeing audiovisual tasks for the high school and elementary school auditoriums, and Founder’s Hall.
Not only has André brought his professional skills back to his alma mater but he is using his amazing gifts of mentorship and coaching in his work at the school. In his off time,
André is the Scoutmaster of the Boy Scout Troop at Girard. He explained that his goal is to turn the boys into leaders, equipping them with skills that can be applied to everyday life. André emphasizes the importance of preparation, noting that his Scouts were more prepared for an outdoor excursion due to their previous camping and hiking experiences.
The most gratifying part of André’s work is helping the students and being a mentor to them. He recently volunteered to be a middle school soccer coach, despite having no prior coaching experience. This also led him to begin coaching the chess team this school year. In their first year, the team placed third in the Penn-Jersey League Chess Championship, which is an amazing accomplishment.
He appreciates the dedicated staff who are still here and care about the Girard Community. They helped him immensely as he transitioned from alumnus to employee, knowing that he could seek out their support at any time. André strives to provide students with a better experience than he had growing up. He encourages alumni to donate their time by attending monthly meetings, volunteering at events, and sharing stories to connect with current students and staff. He also believes that alumni can find meaningful ways to give back, whether through donating, teaching, or simply being present on campus.
Stay tuned because this “jack of all trades” has no intention of slowing down anytime soon!
Hail Girard!
IN MEMORIAM
Remembering William “Bill” Seibert
William “Bill” Seibert, Jan. ’48, one of our school’s most devoted and generous alumni, passed away on January 4, 2025 at the age of 94.
Billwas born in South Philadelphia on July 19, 1930. His father, a World War I veteran, passed away when Bill was only seven years old. Faced with heartbreaking circumstances, Bill’s mother Martha made the difficult decision to enroll him at Girard College.
At Girard College, Bill found a second family among his classmates, whom he fondly called his “brothers.” He excelled academically and graduated second in his class. During his time at Girard, Bill participated in various activities, including playing on the soccer team and serving as editor of the Corinthian Yearbook. He also was treasurer for the Class of 1948, known as the “Hummers.”
During Bill’s professional life, he leveraged the skills he learned at Girard College to build a career as a nuclear power plant engineer, draftsman, and architect. He worked for many Philadelphia-area companies, including The York Corporation, General Industries, DuPont, Philadelphia Electric, United Engineers, and Stone & Webster in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Throughout his life, Bill never forgot his cherished alma mater. He and his wife Joan (who predeceased Bill) visited Girard College at least once a year on Founder’s Day and donated
IN MEMORIAM
money to the school to ensure its continued success. Recently, Bill was honored for his generosity in funding a state-of-the-art iWall installed on the first floor of Founder’s Hall.
A hallmark of Bill’s legacy is the devotion to Girard that he instilled in his children. Their recognition of the impact Girard had on their father’s life, and by extension his family, is nowhere more evident than in the generosity of his oldest daughter Jackie and her late husband Michael Fessler, who established the William Seibert Stewardship Award in 2021. This award is given annually to a Girard senior who has shown a passion to serve others for the
Till Our Hearts Be Still
Robert E. Bartholomew ’48
Shawna Brinkley ’00
John H. Harvey ’48
Jacob Kutschera ’60
Bradley P. LaBar ’54
H. Kenneth Lutz ’53
Nevio Pelleschi ’49
George Richner ’56
betterment of Girard College, their fellow students, and the community.
Bill is survived by his eight daughters, Jacqueline Fessler (the late Michael Fessler), Kathleen Quigley (the late Richard Quigley Jr.), Joan Prassas (Ronald), Susan Steinberger (Gil), Darlene Keyser (Gary), Francine Loucks (Jim), Martha (Marcie) Steel (Rob), and Eileen Wambach (Bill). He also is survived by 27 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.
Donations in Bill’s memory may be made to the Fund for Girard College, 2101 South College Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19121.
William (Bill) Seibert ’48
Francis (Frank) Smead ’48
Daniel Anthony Stella ’50
Michael McKeever, former teacher
Girard College’s Advancement Ambassadors are pictured with Bill Seibert Jan. ’48, following the iWall dedication ceremony in Founder’s Hall. STEM Director Marquita Lewis is on the right in the back row.
As the end of this school year approaches, it’s been wonderful to see so many important developments happening at Girard College.
With the launch of a pilot weekend residential program, a select group of students are living and learning on campus seven days a week, returning to a tradition familiar to many alumni.
Our STEM Director Marquita Lewis is ramping up students’ knowledge and interest in science, technology, engineering and math through innovative programming such as the ones featured in our STEM cover story. These programs will provide a foundation for the new STEM Center building on campus that is currently being developed. In fact, all our scholars have participated in STEM programming this year, a milestone reflecting our dedication to hands-on learning.
All these advances in student life and education at Girard are exciting. However, in the six months I’ve been here, nothing has been more rewarding than talking with alumni about their experiences at Girard. Their passion for Girard is profound and contagious.
That passion is sometimes turned into real action. Girard alums Dr. Henry Grabowski ’58, Ph.D., and Dr. Stephen Spencer ’94, MD, MPH, MBA, for instance, have made substantial financial commitments and generously give their time to support the STEM Center. And they have challenged their fellow Girardians to join them in investing in STEM education at Girard: https://bit.ly/STEMGivingChallenge
We’re grateful to our alumni and other donors whose generosity fuels the mission of the school, and we’re excited to welcome you and your families back home for our annual Founder’s Day celebration on May 17. I look forward to meeting you and having the opportunity to talk with you.
Robert Esposito, Interim Chief Advancement Officer resposito@girardcollege.edu
Effecting Change…Transforming Scholars
With your support, we will continue to provide every student with the opportunity and the means to achieve excellence.
By investing in our scholars’ academic, residential, social and emotional development, you ensure that they acquire the skills and practices to become lifelong learners and leave a lasting impact in our communities.
With your gift, you honor Girard’s commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, social growth, and emotional intelligence in talented students from underserved communities.
There are multiple ways to support the Students of Girard College:
GIFTS OF CASH
Give securely and easily online: www.girardcollege.edu/support
Give by check
Checks can be made to The Fund for Girard College and mailed to:
The Fund for Girard College
Attn: Advancement Office 2101 S College Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19121
GIFTS OF STOCK
If you are interested in donating stock, please reach out to the Advancement Office to obtain a Stock Transfer Request Form to begin this process.
GIFTS THROUGH YOUR IRA
As a Qualified Charitable Distribution (CQD) this is an easy way to support our students.
EITC & OSTC PROGRAMS
The Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs allow businesses and individuals to receive significant tax credits while supporting educational initiatives. By participating you can direct your PA tax dollars to Girard College, helping us support our students, their innovative programs and essential resources, while receiving a PA state tax liability credit!
Stephen Girard’s legacy has made possible a life-changing education for over 22,000 students. Your legacy can, too! Consider making a planned legacy gift to Girard College, just as our founder did.
Learn more about Legacy Giving options: www.legacy.girardcollege.edu
Have questions? Want to discuss these options for giving further?
Reach out to the members of the Office of Advancement at 215-787-4436 or via email: advancement@girardcollege.edu
