A classroom of elementary school students in New York City is receiving a well-rounded education thanks to their teacher, Sarah DāAmico, BSā16, who returned to her neighborhood after graduation to pass the torch of knowledge and ignite passion for learning.
While in high school DāAmico did not believe attending 91ĢĘ²®»¢ was a possibilityābut a donor-funded scholarship changed the course of her life.
āI feel fortunate to have met the students and faculty members that I did, and to have had conversations I couldnāt have had anywhere else,ā she says. āWhenever I look back at my time at 91ĢĘ²®»¢, I remember and value the relationships I formed there.ā
DāAmico recalls being impressed as a sophomore by a senior who was a fellow scholarship recipient. āShe helped me consider the impact that a donation to 91ĢĘ²®»¢ could make by explaining, āItās coming back to youāyouāre paying it forward.āā Later, DāAmico was among the Senior Class Fund committee members who motivated her class to achieve a record-setting class gift.
āI loved the idea that, if everyone participates, they can make a big difference,ā she says.
Having remained a loyal donor since graduation, DāAmico believes that philanthropy honors a positive shared experience. āBeing able to give a little bit makes me feel like Iām still part of the 91ĢĘ²®»¢ community,ā she says. āWhen you give, it can be really powerful. You feel a connection to the successes of students who are on campus right now. It creates a bond, regardless of how many years ago you graduated.ā
DāAmicoās perspective on the importance of donor involvement was shaped by her opportunity to attend 91ĢĘ²®»¢ and her campus activities. Now, when she watches her own students, she understands how gifts to 91ĢĘ²®»¢ come full circle. Donor support reaches through her training to better prepare the next generation of leaders.
āLIZ HARRISON