The warmth of the community filled the room at Viewpoint's Annual Leadership Celebration on September 30, where more than 100 Viewpoint Fund donors and new parents gathered to reflect on the transformative impact of their philanthropy and commitment to the school's mission. The event brought together supporters who made gifts to the Friends’ Circle or higher during the previous fiscal year, honoring their generous contributions to the school.

Upon arrival at the Karapetian Courtyard, decked out in sunset orange and summer pink to honor the Class of 2026, attendees enjoyed tray-passed hors d'oeuvres and signature cocktails while socializing and connecting with one another. The relaxed atmosphere set the stage for an evening that would honor not just financial contributions, but the deeper investment our donors make in shaping young lives. 

Board Chair Andy Kieffer opened the program by thanking everyone for their support and reminding attendees of philanthropy's power. He introduced two members of the Class of 2026, Joe Abdou and Luna Kuhn, noting that they exemplify what it means to be "World Ready" students who embody the school's core values of Love, Honor, Excellence, Imagination, and Optimism. Their presence would serve as a powerful testament to how donor support translates directly into student success.

The evening's most memorable moments came when Joe and Luna took the stage to share their Viewpoint experiences in student government, STEM and Literary Scholars, and Film. Their eloquent reflections reminded everyone present why this work matters, capturing the joy, growth, and promise that define a Viewpoint education. 

Joe spoke movingly about the meaning of excellence, sharing that "to be excellent, you need a vision to work towards, a commitment to your work, the discipline to persevere through the challenges you'll face, and the consistency to live as the best version of yourself, day in and day out." Luna shared that Viewpoint's support had enabled her to lead writing workshops and attend the summer program of her dreams, opening doors that transformed her understanding of what's possible for her future.

Head of School Mark McKee closed the program by acknowledging that leadership manifests itself in countless ways, but perhaps none more powerfully than through the unwavering support of Viewpoint's philanthropic community. He left attendees with an inspiring vision: "We are going places. Up and to the right, we are going places." It was both a rallying cry and a recognition that Viewpoint's upward trajectory depends entirely on the continued leadership and investment of the donors in the room. “We can dream big,” he said. “But you, our donors, are the dreammakers.” 

As the celebration drew to a close, one thing was clear: this was more than an acknowledgment of generosity; it was a powerful reminder that philanthropy creates momentum, and that together, this community is charting an exciting course for Viewpoint's future.

Viewpoint School recognizes Judy Gawlik Brown & Steven Brown, Kelly & Don Carlisi and the Kelly Day Foundation for their leadership support in the Viewpoint Fund and their symbolic sponsorship of this event as donors in our Chair's and Head of School Circles.

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