A Tremendous Year…And More to Do

When we closed the books on the 2023-2024 fiscal year on June 30, there was a great deal to be proud of. This community came together to raise more than $24 million, the most money raised in a single year at St. Benedict’s Prep. The generosity of 3,163 donors made this tremendous outcome possible, and the total raised will go a long way toward sustaining the signature programs, opportunities and financial assistance that make the Benedict’s experience viable for 950 kids from in and around Newark. 

If you went to St. Benedict’s or are an extended member of the Benedict’s family, you know we don’t sugar coat the tough stuff. Of the more than $24 million raised last year, only $6 million was in unrestricted gifts that underwrite annual operating expenses. We fell short of our goal to reach 39% alumni participation, and for the first time in eight years, the overall percentage of alumni giving didn’t rise. In fact, it fell to 32%. To my fellow Gray Bees, let me take this opportunity to say, “We need you.” I meet many alums who want to make a “big gift” to St. Benedict’s — and hold off giving — until they can do so. Your gift, at whatever level you can do right now, does more than you know. 

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“To my fellow Gray Bees, let me take this opportunity to say, ‘We need you.’”

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Contributions of all sizes add up, generating a collective pool of support that keeps 520 MLK Boulevard open and available to kids 24/7. Your participation in the Annual Fund inspires others to give. Moreover, when our alumni participation rate is robust and rising, it sends a critical message to friends, teammates and potential funders: St. Benedict’s is worthy of support because the people who went here, give. It’s that simple. It’s that critical. 

If you missed the Annual Fund last year, go online to sbp.org/giving and make a gift this year. If you have never made a gift to The Hive, go to sbp.org/giving and make that first gift. I promise, it will make you feel great. And if you are among the 3,163 donors listed in this Annual Report, my profound thanks on behalf of everyone at the School. St. Benedict’s Prep is the difference that makes a difference because of you. I hope we can count on your continued support and generosity in 2024-25.

 

With gratitude, 

Robert J. DiQuollo ’65
Chairman, Board of Trustees