2023-24 Annual Report

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2023-24

The gifts reflected in this report were received by Harrisburg Academy between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024. In a list of this size, errors may occur. Therefore, if you know of a donor’s name that was misspelled, omitted, or incorrectly placed, please accept our apology. We ask you to notify the Development Office of any such errors by calling 717. 761.7811 or emailing development@harrisburgacademyorg Please know that every gift is important to Harrisburg Academy, and we appreciate your generosity and continued support of our mission

A Message from the Head of School

December9,2024

DearHarrisburgAcademyCommunity,

Iamhonoredtosharewithyouthe2023-24AnnualReport.Mygratitudeandappreciationforeachandeverygift capturedinthisreportfarsurpasseswhatcouldbeexpressedinthesepages.Ourcommunityismadeupofsomany, includingparents,currentandformer,guardians,friends,alumni,foundations,businessesandneighbors.In additiontospanningsomanygroups,ourcommunityspansgenerations Aswerecognizeandcelebrate240yearsof excellenceineducation,wealsosee240yearsofstrengthincommunity.Itisbecauseofthestrength,generosity,and beliefinourschool’smissionandvalues,byourvastanddiversecommunity,thatweareabletoignitethepassion forlearninginourstudents,fosterourstudents’individualityandtalents,andpreparethemforfuturesuccess.

Ifour2023-24schoolyearembodiedatheme,itwouldbe“240YearsStrong.”Itisawe-inspiringtobepartofan institutionthathasbeenapillarofeducationinthecommunityfornearlyaslongaswehavebeenacountry.While themakeupofourschoolhasdiversified,campusesmoved,andcurriculumchanged,onethinghasremained constant:HarrisburgAcademyhasalwaysremainedinnovativeandadaptivetotheneedsofourstudentsand families.Wewouldnotbecelebratinga240-yearhistoryhadwenotbeen.TheAcademyhasalwaysrisentothe occasionandmetthechallenge Today,weteachapremiercurriculumfoundin160countriesacrosstheglobe,but onlyavailablefromstarttofinishinthreePennsylvaniaschools.Weprovidelife-changingexperiencestoour students,throughtravelandculturalexchangeprogramsandhands-onlearningopportunities.Wededicatefunding andresourcestoourmusicandartsprogramsandextracurricularactivities,givingourstudentsawell-rounded educationthatdevelopstheirtalentsandpassions.Andwebeamwithprideseeingtheachievementsandsuccesses ofouralumni,whoareneverfarfromourthoughts,andneverfarfromHarrisburgAcademy,theirhome.

Wewouldnotbeabletodoanyofthiswithoutthesupportanddedicationfromourcommunity.Itisbecauseofthe giftsyouseeinthisreport,andthedonorsnamedonthesepages,thatweareabletocelebratethese“240Years Strong.”WecouldnotdeliveranextraordinaryAcademyexperiencewithouteachandeveryoneofyou.Yourgiftsof time,talent,treasureandtiesareinvaluable,andallowustolookforwardtothenext240years.Thankyouagainfor yourincrediblesupport,andforcultivatingthephilanthropiccultureofourAcademycommunity.

Withgratitude,

Board of Trustees

Mark Foster, Chair

Marilynn Abrams

Scott Appel

Bill Dodson ‘73

Joe Gillette ‘82

Matthew Grandon ‘08

Aaron Gross

Mark Parsells ‘78

Tom Polliard ‘82

Teri Rooney ‘92

Jon Slotkin

Mission Statement

Harrisburg Academy offers an academically challenging and globally minded interdisciplinary education. In our commitment to excellence, we provide tools, develop character, and teach skills that prepare students to thrive in college and beyond, thereby contributing to the betterment of our global and local communities.

Diversity Statement

A community enriched by its diversity, affords every member equal respect- and provides an environment for appreciating our differences as well as our similarities.

A Message from the Board Chairman

December 9, 2024

Dear Academy Families and Friends,

As we reflect on another remarkable year at Harrisburg Academy, I cannot help but consider the school’s journey. From our humble beginnings in 1784 on Front Street, to the present day Academy experience on Erford Road, all members of our community, past and present, are connected by their enduring commitment to our beloved school. It is my privilege to share our 2023-24 Annual Report of Donors which captures not only gifts of treasure, but a shared belief in Harrisburg Academy’s mission and values which have defined us for nearly 240 years.

Reflecting on the theme “240 Years Strong,” it is truly humbling to consider the Academy’s journey. Few institutions can claim a legacy so intertwined with the fabric of our nation’s history. While campus and academic programming have evolved, Harrisburg Academy’s mission, values, and reputation for excellence have remained consistent By becoming one of the few schools in Pennsylvania authorized to offer three International Baccalaureate programmes, we honor those within our community who have nurtured and developed a passion for learning, and we look forward to continuing that legacy as we prepare our Spartans to excel in an everchanging world.

This past year has been a testament to the strength of our community. Harrisburg Academy continues to serve as a beacon of academic excellence within our region and the state through our prestigious designation as an International Baccalaureate continuum school. Our dedicated faculty and staff continue to foster a rigorous academic environment where each student is seen, known, and celebrated, and our students continue to excel resulting from hands-on learning and experiences that cultivate character development and international mindedness.

None of this would be possible without your ongoing support. I am deeply grateful for each of you our Academy families, alumni, and friends–who sustain our mission through gifts of time, talent, and treasure. Your steadfast support remains the foundation for our continued success. Together, we are not just celebrating 240 years–we are shaping the next chapter of our history. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you for being a vital part of our community and for your belief in our mission.

With Spartan Pride,

A Message of Gratitude from Development

Dear Academy Community,

As we commemorate a remarkable milestone in our history, I am filled with gratitude to celebrate the 240th year of Harrisburg Academy. This significant occasion not only marks the passage of time but also serves as a poignant reminder of our roots and the enduring values that have shaped our institution.

As you peruse our Annual Report, we invite you to join us in celebrating this milestone by taking a moment to reflect on the profound difference your support has made for our students. Your generous contributions have helped ensure that future generations benefit from the same excellent education that has been a hallmark of Harrisburg Academy since its inception.

As I reflect on the past year, the development office has been fortunate to grow in so many ways because of your support. We strengthened Alumni connections and supported Blue and Gold initiatives through fundraising efforts We rebranded the Academy Fund to reflect the modern community that comprises Harrisburg Academy and in doing so, achieved our Academy Fund Goal, allowing us to positively impact our students’ learning and support the needs of our school. We created a guide for independent school families, The Gifts that Give Back, highlighting the ways to be involved in your child’s education as a parent volunteer. And lastly, we worked on our strategic plan, Creating a Culture of Philanthropy.

As we look ahead, we are excited about new opportunities and invite you to join us on this journey by continuing to contribute your time and resources. As an essential part of our community, you are helping us to sustain our legacy of Harrisburg Academy.

Thank you once again for being an integral part of our journey; together we can create a lasting impact that echoes through time.

Warm regards,

HonoringtheClassof2024

Hayes Branoff - University of South Carolina

Maddox Dinh- University of California, San Diego

Elijah Goss - Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology

Annabel Hathaway - University of St. Andrews

Gavin Huang - University of California, San Diego

Thomas Keep - Toronto Metropolitan University

Shuxun Li - University of Southern California

Leilani Lightener - Villanova University

Drue Meals - Wilson College

Aiden Ngo - New York University

Connor Ngo - Northeastern University

William Paul - Bucknell University

Emily Rainey - Washington and Jefferson College

Mason Richwine - Northeastern University

Luca Savarino - Manhattan School of Music

Jeremy Shover- Temple University

Benjamin Shvartsman - Columbia University and List College Joint Degree Program

C E L E B R A T I N G T H E L E G A C Y O F

JAY F. LEONARD

C L A S S O F ‘ 5 1

Harrisburg Academy is honored to have received a generous bequest from alumnus and friend, Jay F. Leonard ’51 and his wife, Amy P. Leonard. Following the passing of the Leonards, the arrival of their substantial bequest - the biggest in the Academy’s history – serves to exemplify the meaningful impact one can make through a legacy gift.

A proud graduate of Harrisburg Academy, Jay was part of the last graduating class until 1960. During his time at the Academy, our school thrived across the river at the Wallower Mansion Campus, known as Seiler Hall.

Jay's contributions to the Academy were many. He played in the school orchestra, served as the assistant editor of the Spectator Yearbook, and managed the basketball team during his junior and senior years. As class treasurer in 1951, he helped guide his peers His class also celebrated a significant victory, as the Gold Team won the House Cup in his senior year. Jay participated in traditions that still endure today, including the beloved holiday assembly that has evolved from presenting “The Night Before Christmas” to “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

Their substantial bequest - the biggest in the Academy’s history –serves to exemplify the meaningful impact one can make through a legacy gift.

A passionate automotive enthusiast, Jay was a dedicated member of the Hobby Club from 1949 to 1951. His crowning achievement was restoring a 1929 REO Flying Cloud, a project that ignited a lifelong passion for classic automobiles. His legacy even humorously included a pledge in the yearbook to leave his prized car to the Smithsonian Institute.

After graduating, Jay earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Lehigh University, where he began his career at Philco Corporation, a pioneer in radio and television technology.

Following a successful career that spanned decades at Philco-Ford, Kearfott, GTE, and BAE Systems, Jay retired in 1998, only to return as a consultant for nearly another decade. Yet, through all his professional achievements, his heart remained with his REO vehicles, which he generously donated to the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum before his passing

Jay's generosity reached beyond our school, benefitting several prestigious institutions, including Lehigh University, Department of Electrical Engineering, Syracuse University, Department of Fine Arts, University of Pennsylvania, School of Engineering & Applied Science, and University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School of Education. Additionally, the Leonards were passionate about animals, especially their dogs, and included the Pug Rescue of Sacramento in their legacy.

Harrisburg Academy is profoundly grateful to the Leonards for this gift. Their generosity serves as a rousing reminder of the impact one can have through giving. As we reflect on Jay Leonard’s incredible life and contributions, we invite all members of the Harrisburg Academy community to consider how you might contribute to our school’s mission through your legacy, creating a lasting impact for future generations.

AcademyFundIndividualGifts

Academy Fund Donations - up to $499

Mrs. Marion C. Alexander ’59 and Mr. Bill Alexander

Mr Kenneth Andrews '68

Dr. David Babb

Ballantine Family Charitable Fund

Ms. Sarah Ballard

Mr Terry Barber

Mr. Jake Baughman

Mr. David Bechtel

Mrs. Joellen Becker '04 and Mr. Chistopher Becker

Mrs. Melissa Behm

Mr. Robert Bell

Ms. Heather Bolinger

Mr. Matthew Brunner

Ms. Christine Cashel ’68

Mrs Christine Catherman

Mr. Adam Chernicoff ’10

Mr Eric Clark ’03

Mr. Jeff Copus

Mr Jere Coxon ’60

Ms. Ashley Crist

Mr Devin Dadigan ’06

Mrs. Alexandra Daniel

Miss Sara Davis

Mrs. Lindsay Davis

Mr Philip DePamphilis and Mrs Sharon DePhamphilis

Ms. Susan Dietterick

Mrs Randi DiLella

Ms. Alisha Dufour

Ms Catherine Errington

Mrs. Carolyn Estill-Shover '92

Foster Consulting, Inc

Mr. Tilman Foust Jr. '64

Mr Peter Frengel

Mr. Michael Gamon

Mrs. Maria Garay-Pinzon

Mrs. Mary Garton

Mrs. Leyla Goldfinger

Dr. Jagdeep Goraya and Mrs. Anureet Kang

Mrs. Loren Gordon

Ms. Elizabeth Graham '87 and Mr. Brad Feldman

Mrs. Erin Harcourt ’90

Mr James Harding

Mrs. Courtney Hart

Mrs Ann Hess

Ms. Ebony Hodges

Ms Jill Hurst-Wahl ’75

Mr. Richard Huy

Mrs. Valerie Jessee

Mrs. Christine Kerr

Mr. Jesse Lipson

Ms. Claire Mackin '16

Mr. John Martin Jr.

Mr. Peter McCorkle ’87 and Mrs. Diane McCorkle

Mrs Siena McLees

Mr. Doug Nestor

Dr James Newman and Mrs Anne Newman

Mrs. Christine Noll

Dr Sarah Oatney-Weiler

Ms. Amy O'Hare

Mr Michael Ortman

Mr. Kent Patterson ’64

Ms Tina Phillips-Garrison

Mrs. Deborah Potter

Mr Steven Preston

Mrs. Gretchen Qualls

Mrs Elizabeth Remm

Mrs. Kelly Rinehart

Mrs Diane Sand

Dr. William Sauer and Mrs. Helen Sauer

Mrs Kelly Seely

Ms. Jeane Serino

Mrs Lakshmi Shrikantia

Mr. Alex Smith ’02

Ms. Maureen Smith

Mr. Jeremy Smith

Mrs. Annette Spahr

Mrs. Alison Spink

Miss Paige Sterner '16

Mr. Steven Sewart

Ms. Alexandra St. John

Mr Jeffrey Stouffer

Ms. Monica Velasco

Mr Richard Whitehead

Academy Fund Donations - $500 to $1,999

Mr. Benjamin Abrams ’92

Mr. Neil Abrams ’96

Mr. Adrian Allan

Mr. Scott Appel and Mrs. Hannan Appel

Mr Robert Alexander ’89

Ms. Heather Bolinger

Mr. Todd Brason '76 and Mrs. Kim Brason

Mrs Deanne Burch

Mr. Robert Chernicoff Esq. and Mrs. Debra Chernicoff

Mrs. Robyn Cutchall

Mrs Ann Ebersbach ’65 and Mr Thomas Ebersbach

Mr. Matthew Farrell '04

Mr Mark Foster

Mr. Joseph Gillette ’82 and Mrs. Lisa Gillette

Ms. Susan Graham Johnston '87 and Mr. Eric Johnston

Mr Matthew Grandon '08

Mr. Aaron Gross and Mrs. Anne Gross

Dr. Anna Jenny Karlsson and Dr. Marcus Keep

Mrs. Mary Lundeen

Mr. Charles Mackin and Mrs. Deborah Mackin

Mr Spencer Nauman Jr ’51 and Mrs Helen Nauman

Mr. Thomas Polliard ’82

Mrs. Teri Rooney ’92 and Mr. Shane Rooney

Dr Zachary Scheiner ’93 and Dr Ashley Webb

Ms. Kristin Scofield

Mr. Frank Sourbeer Jr. ’04

Mr Richard Stevenson and Mrs Bonnie Stevenson

Mr. Blair Trogner and Mrs. Candis Trogner

Dr Kelin Wang and Ms Guojie Liu

Mrs. Karen Weber

Mr. and Mrs. William E. Wert

Dr Kathryn Zerbe ’69

Academy Fund Donations - $2,000 to $4,999

Mrs Marilynn Abrams & Mr Richard E Abrams

Ms. Susan Bruce and Mr. Neal Fitch

Miss Lindsay Bowman

Mrs Erica Pettis ’06 & Mr Jerome Wallace

Col William Dodson III ’73, MD USAF Ret & Maj Gen Maria Falca-Dodson USAF Ret.

Mr. Mark Parsells ’78 & Mrs. Catherine Parsells

Academy Fund Donations - $5,000 +

Estate of Mildred J. Allen

EITC Donations - up to $4,999

Friends of Education, LLC

Mid Penn Bank

Orrstown Bank

Weis Markets, Inc

Dr. Robert Zuckerman, MD, P.C. and Mrs. Stacey Zuckerman

EITC Donations - $5,000 -$9,999

PA Pension Planners

Phoenix Contact, Inc

EITC Donations - $10,000 + Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Campanies

Peoples Bank

OSTC Donations - up to $9,999

Customers Bank

UGI Storage Company

OSTC Donations - $10,000 +

First National Bank of Pennsylvania

Mr. Jason Brenner & Mrs. Sasha Brenner

Mr Solomon Cramer ’94 & Mrs Carolyn Cramer

Mr. Gregory Denk

Dr. Lawrence Ho & Mrs. Andrea Tan

Mr. Gary Huether & Mrs. Summer Huether

Mr. Steven Kempski & Mrs. Susan Kempski

Mrs. Jaqueline Kimmel & Mr. Sherwood Kimmel

Mr Eric Pettis ’78 & Mrs Patrice Pettis

Mr. Mark Richwine & Mrs. Elizabeth Kelly Richwine

Mr. David Rosenberg, Esq.

S & T Bank

Foundation Donations - up to $4,999

The Horner Foundation

Foundation Donations - $5,000 - $9,999

Bridge Educational Foundation

Foundation Donations - $10,000 - $14,999

Ivin S. and Virginia D. Bear Fund

Hunter-Meyers-Redus Foundation

Foundation Donations - $20,000-$49,999

McCormick Family Foundation

Foundation Donations - $50,000 +

Boyd Foundation

The Donald B & Dorothy L Stabler Foundation

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation

Mr. Steve Brindle & Mrs. Christine Brindle

Dr. James Newman and Mrs. Anne Newman

Mrs. Courtney Dibeler & Mr. Daniel Dibeler

Mrs. Teri Rooney ’92 and Mr. Shane Rooney

RestrictedGifts

Mrs Marilynn Abrams and Mr Richard Abrams

Mr. Scott Appel and Mrs. Hannan Appel

Miss Lindsay Bowman

Mrs Courtney Dibeler and Mr Daniel Dibeler

Col William Dodson III ’73, MD USAF Ret. & Maj Gen Maria Falca Dodson USAF Ret

Mr Mark Foster

Mr. Matthew Hathaway and Mrs. Pam Hathaway

Dr. Marcus Keep & Dr. Anna Jenny Karlsson

Mr William Paul ’24

Mrs. Teri Rooney ’92 and Mr. Shane Rooney

GalaSponsorships

Corporate Sponsors

Touch of Color Flooring, Presenting Sponsor

Connor Design and Build, Gold Sponsor

McNees Law, Gold Sponsor

evolve Financial Planning, Gold Sponsor

First National Bank, Silver Sponsor

Selinsgrove Dental & Dentures, Bronze Sponsor

Alumni Sponsors

Col William Dodson III MD USAF Ret ’73 & Maj Gen Maria Falca-Dodson USAF Ret

Family Sponsors

Mrs. Marilynn Abrams & Mr. Richard Abrams

Mr Jason Brenner & Mrs Sasha Brenner

Dr. Sarah Callery & Mr. Justin Long

Blue & Gold Initiative

Mrs. Marilynn Abrams & Mr. Richard Abrams

Mr David Bechtel & Mrs Melinda Bechtel

Dr. Ashish Behari & Mrs. Pratima Behari

Miss Lindsay Bowman

Ms Susan Bruce & Mr Neal Fitch

Dr. Sarah Callery & Mr. Justin Long

Mrs. Meghann Connor & Mr. Shawn Connor

Mr. Solomon Cramer ’94 & Mrs. Carolyn Cramer

Ms. Ashley Crist

Mrs Robyn Cutchall

Ms. Susan Dietterick

Col William Dodson III ’73, MD USAF Ret & Maj Gen Maria Falca-Dodson, USAF Ret

Mrs. Nikki Fehr & Mr. Eric Roberts

Ms. Ginny Fessler

Mr Mark Foster

Cordier Auctions & Appraisals, Bronze Sponsor

UPMC, Bronze Sponsor

Foster Consulting, Bronze Sponsor

Hot Frog, Bronze Sponsor

LM Gnazzo Promotion Strategies & Nell Abom

Communications, Bronze Sponsor

Mr Solomon Cramer ’94 & Mrs Carolyn Cramer

Mrs. Teri Rooney ’92

Mr. David Jones & Mrs. Kelly Charlesworth-Jones

Dr Julian Ngo & Mrs Phoxay Ngo

Dr. Bart Thaci & Mrs. Blerina Thaci

Mr. Michael Gamon & Ms. Jenny Hueter

Mr Matthew Grandon ’08

Mrs. Courtney Hart & Mr. Evan Hart

Ms. Sabrena Hartley

Mr Randy Hentz & Ms Brooke Hockenbrach

Mrs. Jackie Kimmel & Mr. Woody Kimmel

Mrs. Mindy Lynch & Mr. Graham Lynch

Mrs. Siena McLees

Dr. Sarah Oatney-Weiler & Mr. Wirley Weiler

Ms Amy O’Hare

Mrs. Deborah Potter

Mrs. Naeveen Ramadan & Mr. Joseph Hamad

Dr Brandon Smith & Mrs Abby Smith

Dr. Bart Thaci & Mrs. Blerina Thaci

Mr. Tom van Oosterom & Mrs. Alicia Keane

Mrs Mary Zanolini & Mr Eric Zanolini

Exciting Facilities Upgrades at Harrisburg Academy

We are thrilled to announce a series of facility upgrades at our school, enhancing both safety and aesthetics for our students and community. Here’s a look at what’s been accomplished:

Murals Installed

Four Academy-themed murals have been installed across the school: one in the gallery, two in the athletics hall, and one in the front library stairwell, which is visible from outside of the school These artistic enhancements bring life and color to our hallways, celebrating our school spirit.

Refinished Stairs & Rail Paint

Adjacent to the entrance, the stairs have been refinished and the railings painted. This upgrade ensures a safer and more appealing transition from the entrance into the school, welcoming students and visitors alike

Repaired Front Entrance

The front entrance to the school has undergone significant repairs, eliminating the unsightly cracks that once marred its appearance This upgrade not only improves the look of our school but also provides a safer entry point for all who visit.

Gallery Makeover

The gallery has been entirely revitalized with a fresh coat of paint, brand new tables, and the installation of new cabinets Additionally, one of our new murals and a variety of vibrant artwork has been added, showcasing inspirational creativity through a series of beautiful canvases.

Equipment Upgrades for Maker Space

Our maker space has received significant upgrades with new design equipment, including 3D printers and a heat transfer machine. The heat transfer machine is especially useful for making our own apparel and accessories for the School Spirit Line inhouse These tools provide students with hands-on learning experiences and foster creativity and innovation

New Safety Gate

A new safety gate has been installed in the back of the school, enclosing our fields and playground areas, enhancing security for both students and staff This upgrade is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring a safe learning environment for everyone.

New mural artwork makes a big impact in hallways and large spaces throughout the school.

The Senior Cove

As part of our commitment to our school and our students, we have redesigned the senior Cove. More specifically, the students did! Led by Drue, the class of 2024 gave the Cove a much needed make over! This particular upgrade would be better talked about by the architect herself:

“Spring of our junior year, a few of my friends and I began to brainstorm ways to improve the Cove We used a 3D room designer website to match the space’s dimensions, and then had fun placing items of furniture in the “room” Of course, our favorite layout happened to be the most ambitious, labor-intensive idea, but to our surprise, Miss Bowman was all for the project so long as we raised the funds to do it That summer, my grade and their parents generously donated the funds necessary to remodel the Cove which involved removing the benches, painting, and buying new furniture. In August before our senior year began, my friends and I worked on painting and assembling furniture, but the maintenance staff (especially Mr. Hart) removed the benches, installed tiles, and put up beadboard (just to name a few) The week before school started, we put the finishing touches on our new Cove, and grew more and more excited to return to school and enjoy the fruits of our labors”

New School Spirit Line

We have introduced a new spirit line that emphasizes the broader student body and school community, highlighting our identity as a whole rather than just focusing on Spartan athletes. This change fosters inclusivity and school pride among all students and staff. To check out some of our spirit gear, scan the QR code, or go to HarrisburgAcademyorg and head to the Quick Links

Even though I spear-headed this initiative, the support of my friends, their parents, the maintenance staff, and of course Miss Bowman made this all possible. While we wanted a fun hangout space for our senior year, we also knew that the Cove remodel could be a part of our legacy at the Academy. I believe the Class of 2024 left their mark on the school in many ways, including the Cove, but I ultimately hope we will serve as an inspiration for other classes to make their Academy experience their own and leave behind a legacy they too can be proud of.”

-Drue Meals ‘24

New Stair Treads

Stair treads throughout the school have been replaced, contributing to enhanced safety and durability This upgrade ensures that students can navigate the school with confidence, reducing the risk of slips and falls

Enhanced Visibility with New Landscaping

To improve the school's visibility from the road, the trees that once stood have been cleared. To make up for the loss of that natural beauty, landscaping has been enhanced at the front This upgrade increases community awareness of our location and creates a more inviting atmosphere, highlighting our commitment to maintaining a functional and attractive school environment.

Strategic Plan for Improvement

As part of our two-year strategic plan, we are committed to strengthening our school through investments in our faculty, staff, and building This initiative ensures that we continue to enhance the educational experience for our students and support our dedicated faculty.

While the launch of this strategic plan was the inspiration to some of these upgrades, we are far from finished We will and have been investing our efforts into bettering our school for as long as we’ve been established If you would like to participate, and contribute to the initiative, you can visit the Development page on our website to give.

BLUE & GOLD

This year, Harrisburg Academy reconnected with its historical roots by reintroducing the Blue and Gold Team system, led by Courtney Hart, Dean of Student Life. The initiative aims to bridge the diverse grades and divisions within the school, fostering inclusivity while celebrating student talent and achievement. The system has sparked increased excitement and engagement, creating a sense of camaraderie and belonging among students, and extending its impact throughout the school community to involve faculty, staff, families, and the broader community

The “Blue and Gold” tradition dates back to the early 1900s when the teams were originally called the “Greeks and Romans.” Regardless of the names, the tradition has always centered around friendly competition that fosters school spirit. In the mid-20th century, the names were rebranded to the now-iconic Blue and Gold. Upon enrolling at the Academy, each student is assigned to a team, and for many years, the Blue and Gold experience was most prominently represented by the annual Kindergarten through 8th Grade Field Day competition.

Field Day has long been a highlight at Harrisburg Academy, embodying school spirit, leadership, and camaraderie However, it became clear that one day a year was not enough to fully capture the energy and excitement of the Blue and Gold tradition To build on this, last year, the Academy introduced a variety of new events and competitions throughout the school year. These additions allow students to showcase their talents and engage in activities that celebrate a broad range of interests, making Blue and Gold a year-round tradition As a result, Blue and Gold has evolved from a single day of events into a central part of the school's culture, embodying the spirit of Harrisburg Academy and its students

The Blue and Gold teamwork is a testament to the four major pillars of identity, collaboration, competition and leadership, defining our team atmosphere and experience for our Academy students. At our school, students are united by their team colors and school pride, fostering a supportive and encouraging culture where they can explore their academic and personal identities. Through Blue and Gold activities, students collaborate in challenges that push them out of their comfort zones, earning points for team spirit, peer support, and participation in various school-wide events This has led to increased involvement in all aspects of school life. Healthy competition is integral to this process, promoting innovation, sportsmanship, and empathy as students learn to appreciate both victories and defeats

Additionally, as students take ownership of their creative projects, they develop leadership skills by leveraging individual strengths, fostering an environment of honesty, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

Our student engagement, family enthusiasm, and alumni involvement has noticeably increased since the revival of the Blue and Gold teams We plan to build on this momentum moving forward in the efforts to enhance Academy culture for years to come. The Harrisburg Academy legacy shall continue: we are Blue and Gold, we are Spartans, we are Harrisburg Academy!

The Blue and Gold teamwork is a testament to the four major pillars of identity, collaboration, competition and leadership.

HARRISBURG ACADEMY FUNDLOGO REIMAGINED

"The new logo... represents our commitment to fostering a welcoming environment among all those connected to the school in support of our students."

In the 2023/2024 academic year, the Development Office, with the help of Marketing and Communications,

redesigned the Academy Fund logo to reflect the Harrisburg Academy community of today.

The new logo, featuring grasped hands, beneath the title Academy Fund, represents our commitment to fostering a welcoming environment among all those connected to the school in support of our students.

We believe that this new logo not only enhances our visual identity but also reinforces the values we cherish within the Academy spirit. Additionally, we thoughtfully considered our school colors in this design, incorporating our iconic blue and gold.

The Academy Fund plays a crucial role in supporting our annual operating expenses. It bridges the gap between tuition fees and the true cost of running the Academy, with annual gifts making up this difference.

Typically, these contributions are unrestricted, allowing the school to allocate funds to the area of greatest need.

Every gift to the fund is meaningful and makes a difference, and if you haven’t yet made your gift to the Academy Fund, there is still time! Just click the Academy Fund logo below because ‘together we support our students’ to build a stronger Academy.

TOGETHER WE SUPPORT OUR STUDENTS

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