December 23, 2020
 
 
Dear Friends,

As the calendar year comes to an end (and what a year it’s been!), we look forward to 2021 and all the possibilities that lie ahead for all of us. It’s been a tough year, but we have found a great deal to celebrate and this last note of 2020 is no exception.
The Arts
Our Fine Arts Department created a Winter Fine Arts presentation for the Beverwyck retirement community on December 22, 2020. The Office of Institutional Advancement has had a long tradition of hosting a lunch and student performance at Beverwyck for alumni, alumnae, past parents, and grandparents. Because that was not possible this year, we decided to provide a virtual program for residents to view from the comfort of their own rooms on a special channel available only to them. Despite the change in format, the event was a great success!
Alumni and Alumnae Speaker Series
We’re kicking off our newest Alumni/ae Speaker Series on January 14. Brought to you by the Alumni and Alumnae Associations, in partnership with the Office of Institutional Advancement, this series is intended for our Upper School students. The first of these virtual sessions will present four very accomplished alumni and alumnae who have military experience. Panelists Captain Frank Blake ’96 (Army), Major Conor Stewart '05 (Marine Corps), Lieutenant Meghan Poukish-Bodnar '99 (Navy), and Tara Somersall Parten '06 (Army) will share their insights about lessons learned, the importance of leadership and service, and the array of opportunities available in the military services. I’m certain the students will be treated to an outstanding conversation. This will also be open to alumni and alumnae so stay tuned for more details.
“Chat with the Head” Sessions
Head of School Chris Lauricella recently held three virtual “Chat with the Head” sessions with about 30 alumni/alumnae from classes ranging from 2012 to 1950. Chris will continue to host these chats in 2021 so watch for details on upcoming talks.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Update
The Academies’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Forum held another meeting recently, and as a result, members are developing a business case that will lay out the details of implementing the DEI plan for The Albany Academies. If you are interested in learning more, please contact me directly.
Upcoming Events
Several activities are planned for early 2021 so please mark your calendars:

  • On Thursday, February 18 at 7 p.m. we will hold ”ARTrageous,” a virtual fundraiser to support the arts. Previously called Splash!, the event promises to be an exciting showcase of the talents of our students. More details coming soon.

  • Our annual Spring Gathering, to be held virtually on April 30, benefits our students by helping ensure the Academies remain accessible to them. Proceeds support the financial and merit scholarship programs provided to more than 42% of families. With your help, we can ensure that our students continue to learn in a diverse and supportive community. For more information or to donate a silent auction item, contact Special Events Coordinator Sarah Adamowski at adamowskis@albanyacademies.org
 
  • Save the date for our Class of 2020 Hall of Fame Induction and Distinguished Alumni/Alumnae ceremonies, which will be held virtually on May 20. Special honorees include: AA Hall of Fame Inductees Anthony Owens '85, Ned Duffy '70, Jim Mills '95, Robert Beaulieu '85, Neil Bryant '00, Coach Scott Young P'21, '24, and the 1999-2000 Football Team; AAG Hall of Fame Inductees Coach Bonnie Morse-Gillham, Andrea Lodico Welshons '00, Emily Downie '12, and Kirstie Phelps-Harris '01; Distinguished Alumna Elon Johnson '94 and Distinguished Young Alumna Carol Crummey McCardle '04 and Distinguished Alumnus Neil Murray '62 and Distinguished Young Alumnus Chris Ashley '05. As soon as we have the date confirmed for Reunion 2020 and 2021 in the fall of 2021, we will share it with you.
Oldest Living Alumnus Passes Away
I am profoundly sad to share the news that E. Wayne Wilkins, Jr. '37, died this past Sunday, December 20. He was at home and at peace. Click here to view the obituary.
 
Wayne forever loved The Albany Academy and always credited the School with launching him on his remarkable career and life. He was so pleased to see the School one last time this past fall (pictured at left). At 101 he was still fully engaged in a wide range of interests. His activities in his last days and weeks were in keeping with all his days: uncommonly attentive to others and driven to get the very most out of life.
As we say goodbye to 2020, I ask that you please consider making a gift to our annual fund as part of your year-end donation plans. I have been so proud of how the Academies community has pulled together during this challenging year. We still have some tough months ahead of us and I know I can count on your support. Click here to donate or pledge.

Best wishes to you and your family for a happy and healthy New Year!
Ann Wendth
Chief Advancement Officer