Giving

Welcome

A contribution to St. Bernard’s makes every aspect of educating our boys possible.
There are many ways to support St. Bernard’s. Whether you contribute to an endowed fund, support a Parent Association initiative, leave a legacy gift through a bequest, or make a gift to the annual fund, every gift matters.

Contributions support every aspect of school life. Our community’s generosity allows us to attract and retain the finest teachers, construct innovative curricula, and empower our boys and coaches to achieve success on the playing fields.  It supports the publication of the school’s literary magazine, The Budget, the production of class plays and guest speakers at Friday Assemblies, and the continuance of beloved traditions, such as Carols and the Old Boys Dinner. 

The St. Bernard’s community has a long-standing history of quiet philanthropy. Thank you for supporting the school’s exceptional faculty and all the programs that will allow St. Bernard's to remain true to its statement of purpose for generations of Old Boys to come.


CONTACT

Liz Horsmon
Director of Development
212-289-8331
lhorsmon@stbernards.org

Bill Leonard
Director of Old Boys
212-289-2878, ext. 357
bleonard@stbernards.org

Emily Munro
Database Manager
212-289-2878, ext. 323
emunro@stbernards.org

Why Give?

List of 6 items.

  • How is my donation to the annual fund used?

    Tuition revenue and endowment distributions will fund 88% of the school’s operating expenses this year, with the remaining 12% gap closed by donations to the annual fund. The annual fund supports all areas of school life, from academics to athletics to visual and performing arts. Every teacher, coach, and boy from kindergarten through Grade IX benefits from a robust annual fund.
     
  • How much should I give to the annual fund?

    Gifts range from $1 to over $100,000. We ask our community to be as generous as possible, but most importantly, we ask for participation at any amount that is right for you. This year’s gap is approximately $8,000 per boy. Every gift, no matter the amount, makes a difference and is a meaningful way to show your confidence in St. Bernard’s and continue our long-standing tradition of philanthropy from current parents, old boys and their families, grandparents, past parents, faculty, staff, and friends.
  • When should I donate? Can I pledge now and give later?

    Our fiscal year runs July 1- June 30, though we ask all current families to consider a gift before the last day of school. You can also make a pledge to development@stbernards.org with the amount, designation, and estimated gift date. Once a commitment is received, the office will remove you from further reminders and mailings. Because the school depends on the support of our community, pledging early allows the school to more thoughtfully plan for the year.
  • Why not just charge the tuition gap?

    St. Bernard’s strives to attract a diverse group of students. Raising the tuition to cover the $8,000 gap may deter families from considering the school. All independent schools operate with a gap and rely on community support to make up the difference. By making a gift, a donor can take advantage of a charitable tax deduction rather than using after-tax dollars to pay the tuition difference.
     
  • St. Bernard’s has a healthy endowment. Why does it need my support?

    St. Bernard’s endowment, built over the last century through the generosity of our community and carefully managed, enables the school to make long-term commitments to facilities, retain an expert faculty, and keep our tuition lower than our peer schools. This resource is critical to preserving the traditions and academic excellence that are hallmarks of St. Bernard’s.
  • Why Should I give to St. Bernard’s rather than other charitable organizations?

    Your contribution enables the school to provide financial aid to one out of every five boys, assisting students who may not otherwise be able to afford a St. Bernard’s education. In addition, we hope you recognize the exceptional learning experience provided to you, your son, or your grandson. There will always be many worthwhile causes vying for your attention; however, we hope St. Bernard’s will remain a philanthropic priority for you during your family's time at the school and the years after.