The Pride | Spring 2015

Page 32

Spotlight For generations, educational institutions have used alumni engagement as a litmus test for the strength of their organization. For the past six consecutive years, St. Mark’s has been proud to report alumni participation in the St. Mark’s Fund at above 50 percent, an incredible feat that places St. Mark’s near the top in the nation among independent schools. (right) Andrew Pansick ’09, Beau Falgout ’09, and Patrick Neligan ’09 at Spring Alumni Dinner.

As St. Mark’s looks toward the future, young alumni are already making their mark as key difference makers as they take on more responsibility for their alma mater. Fostering a deep connection with alumni and developing a strong habit of philanthropy is at the heart of what sustains excellence at

invested in my success. They continue to be very

St. Mark’s.

important in my life and have taught me lessons that extend far beyond the classroom.” This is why

Now, recent graduates have the opportunity to

Beau and other young alumni choose to give back.

continue the Marksman tradition of leadership and be recognized through a new giving level in the

Reunion Chair Noah Bricker ’10 echoes these

St. Mark’s Fund: Young Associates. This level

sentiments. “St. Marks changed the entire trajectory

includes gifts between $250 and $999 from young

of my life. I learned how to dream, learn, and grow

alumni who have not yet celebrated their 10th

at 10600 Preston Road.” The relationships young

Reunion. The Young Associates designation

alumni build with faculty result in gratitude and

signifies a strong commitment to the School and

appreciation far beyond graduation. “St. Mark’s

early leadership in the St. Mark’s community.

poured love, resources, and time into me, so the least I can do is return the favor. I am a better

Since his graduation in 2009, Beau Falgout has

friend, leader, thinker, and person because of my

been an active young alumnus, serving as a

time at St. Mark’s.”

member of the West Coast Launch Committee of the Centennial Challenge, a Reunion Chair, and

St. Mark’s is thankful for its dedicated alumni

a Class Agent. He frequently returns to campus

who support the School’s mission with their time,

and maintains close friendships with many faculty

resources, and talent. Now, young Marksmen have

and staff, noting “every single one of them has

an opportunity to be recognized as the leaders

expressed earnest excitement for the future of

they are. Their involvement, combined with the

the School.” Beau believes that his support, along

generosity of our parents, grandparents, parents of

with other young alumni, can continue to impact

alumni, and friends, allows the boys and faculty to

or strengthen the already incredible education

have the resources they need.

that the School provides. “St. Mark’s gave me the opportunity to learn from teachers who were truly

30

Spotlight | THE PRIDE

Read more at www.smtexas.org/YoungAlumni

St. Mark’s School of Texas


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