Bancroft School Celebrates 125th Anniversary with Yearlong Celebration

Bancroft School’s 125th anniversary was a year-long tribute to the legacy, spirit, and enduring strength of our community, and it was nothing short of extraordinary.

The celebrations kicked off in spectacular fashion with an all-school photo on the athletic fields, capturing a historic moment as students, faculty, and staff stood side by side to mark the beginning of this milestone year. This powerful image set the tone for a series of events that honored Bancroft’s past, celebrated its present, and looked confidently toward the future.

One of the highlights of the year was the Performing Arts Reunion, which brought together alumni, faculty, and current students to celebrate the vibrant history of music, theater, and performance at Bancroft. The joy of reconnection and shared memories filled the air, reminding us of the lifelong impact of creative expression.

Another exciting addition to the school year was the launch of a new tradition—an all-school scavenger hunt that sparked curiosity, teamwork, and school spirit across all divisions. This new event quickly became a favorite, blending fun with community-building in true Bancroft fashion.

The centerpiece of the celebration was the 125th Anniversary Celebration during Reunion Weekend, a truly unforgettable gathering that drew alumni, families, faculty, and friends back to campus. Among the many memorable moments:

• The induction of the inaugural class of the Bancroft Athletic Hall of Fame, honoring legendary coaches Mark O’Brien, Jane Gerhardt, Steve Kelley, and Charlie Aleksiewicz, alongside standout athletes Tom Magnuson ’06 and Louisa Gebelein Jones ’74. Their dedication and excellence have left a lasting legacy on Bancroft athletics.

• The Alumni Awards Presentation recognized Seth Garfield ’75 and Daniel Collette ’14 for their outstanding professional achievements, reinforcing the far-reaching impact of a Bancroft education.

• A thrilling silent and live auction helped raise vital funds for the school, thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of our supporters.

• A live performance by indie folk band Tall Heights, featuring alumni Paul Wright ’03 and Tim Harrington ’06, brought the house down and filled the night with music, memories, and magic.

• A moving performance by current Speech Team standouts Dylan Dresner and Heidi Thorsen added a powerful reminder of the talent and poise cultivated at Bancroft every day.

Throughout the year, one theme remained constant: the strength of the Bancroft community. Whether on stage, on the field, or gathered around the auction tables, the sense of connection and shared purpose was palpable.

To everyone who helped bring this anniversary to life, students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and friends, thank you. Your energy, love for Bancroft, and unwavering support made the 125th Year Celebration an unforgettable chapter in our school’s story. Here's to the next 125!

Bancroft School 125th Anniversary Committee

Rhonda Brodeur - Bancroft Staff

Bridget Burke - Director of Advancement

Kaitlyn Conor - Lower School Faculty

Jane Gerhardt P’05, P’09 - Former Faculty

Elisa Heinricher P’09 - Upper School Faculty

Craig Jones - Director of DEIB

Stephanie Luebbers, Ex-officio - Head of School

Caitlin McDonough P’34, P’36 - Board of Trustees

Kerri Aleksiewicz Melley ‘90, P’22, P‘25

Dan Mercurio, Co-chair - Assistant Head of School

Abby Morgan ‘98 - Lower & Middle School Faculty

Chris Sheldon P’16, P‘18 - Upper School Faculty

Josephine Herron Truesdell ‘72, P‘02, Honorary Chair - Board of Trustees and Alumni Council President