St. Stephen's School
Annual Report
A Letter of Gratitude
Dear St. Stephen’s Community,
Research consistently reveals a powerful truth: gratitude is deeply linked to happiness, health, resilience, and stronger relationships. At St. Stephen’s, we don’t just study this principle—we live it. The profound sense of thankfulness that flows through our global community is the bedrock of our strength and the catalyst for our incredible progress.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees and myself, I extend our deepest gratitude for your continued, generous support of our school and, most importantly, our students. Your belief in our mission is not just felt; it is demonstrated tangibly through your gifts, creating an enduring legacy of excellence.
This year, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our community, we celebrated raising over $1.5 million for St. Stephen's. We know that with such significant support, you may rightly ask about the nature and purpose of these funds.
The Importance of Giving
Our Endowment
It is important to share that the majority of these funds came from our dedicated U.S.-based donors and are designated primarily for our Endowment. For our families in Italy, where the concept of an endowment may be less familiar, this is a crucial distinction. An endowment is not a fund for daily expenses. Instead, it is a permanent capital fund where the principal is invested, and a portion of the investment income is used each year to support the school's strategic priorities. This creates a reliable, long-term source of financial stability and independence, helping to secure St. Stephen's future for generations to come.
Alongside this long-term investment, the funds raised directly from our annual giving and events—such as the wonderful gala hosted by the St. Stephen’s Parents’ Committee—have had an immediate and visible impact. These are the funds that have allowed us to renovate several areas of the school, enhance programs like Molecular Biology and Astroengineering, and purchase a new lighting system for our theater. This direct support upgrades our facilities and enriches the daily experience of every student.
Because of you, this past year has been one of remarkable achievement: