The primary goal of the advancement office is to help build a strong and engaged community while raising funds to meet the school’s needs. Through increased visibility, engagement, and collaboration, the team is committed to fostering a culture of philanthropy that supports numerous exciting endeavors at EMS.
Why do we have an annual fund?
The Apple Tree Fund is our annual fund, which directly bridges the gap between tuition and the true cost of an exceptional EMS education. Gifts to this fund enable us to make immediate investments in critical enhancements, such as faculty development, innovative programs, and vital resources that directly benefit every student.
Why is participation important?
Participation demonstrates that the community is aligned with the school’s mission and vision. When everyone in the community gives, regardless of the amount, it shows their investment in the school’s future. Ultimately, participation helps the Advancement team to reach its fundraising goals.
2024–2025 Apple Tree Fund
Thanks to the generosity and dedication of our community, EMS raised more than $1 million in annual giving during the 2024–2025 fiscal year.
2025 Spring Benefit
$400,000+ Raised
Together, we raised more than $400,000 for our school.
250+ Attendees
More than 250 EMS parents, trustees, alumni, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends gathered to celebrate all that makes EMS so special.
We had the privilege of honoring four extraordinary members of the EMS family: longtime faculty member Liza Hards, whose 33 years (and counting!) of dedication has shaped generations of students, and trustees emeriti Graham Jones, Emily Mann, and William Van Ness, whose leadership and generosity continue to light the path forward for our community.
2025-2026 Apple Tree Fund
As of Nov. 19, 2025, we have raised $433,059, which includes a $200,000 grant from the Elisabeth Reeve Morrow Morgan Foundation.
Our goal for this year is 100% current parent participation. Any gift amount can and will make a difference! Every student benefits from gifts made to the Apple Tree Fund.
Elisabeth Reeve Morrow Morgan Foundation
The Elisabeth Reeve Morrow Morgan Foundation has a longstanding relationship with The Elisabeth Morrow School, going back to the foundation’s inception in November 1935. The foundation’s sole purpose, since its incorporation, has been to fund special projects as proposed by The Elisabeth Morrow School, for faculty support, in addition to funding the school’s scholarship and endowment projects, through annual gifts. This year, the foundation awarded our school a total of $200,000.
Planned Giving Initiative
The Office of Advancement relaunched the Planned Giving program, providing individuals a way to support EMS through estate or financial plans, thereby securing the school’s mission and values for future generations.
$1 Million Secured
To date, nearly $1 million in planned gift commitments have been secured.
The 1930 Society
Families are invited to join The 1930 Society, honoring EMS’ founding year, by including the school in their wills, trusts, or other planned gifts.
Advancement Events
Onboarding and Stewardship
Head of School Breakfast with New Families
The school welcomed more than 30 new EMS families during a series of three intimate breakfasts hosted by the Head of School in early September. This provided a crucial personal connection for families transitioning into the community.
Head’s Council and Morrow Society Receptions
- Leadership giving through the Morrow Society and the Head’s Council is vital to fulfilling the school’s vision and ensuring continued growth and excellence.
- Head’s Council donors were recognized and welcomed to campus earlier this fall for a personalized reception with Dr. Beck.
- Morrow Society donors were celebrated for their extraordinary generosity during a beautiful reception hosted in October at the home of Victor Alvarez ’93, P’30, and Gia Alvarez, P’30.
Alumni and Trustee Engagement
Annual Trustee Reunion
The school hosted its annual Trustee Reunion in November, bringing more than two dozen former and current EMS trustees back to campus. Attendees reconnected and received updates on exciting developments at the school.
Alumni Happy Hour
Elisabeth Morrow alumni enjoyed a wonderful evening at Bella Union in NYC, providing a relaxed opportunity to reconnect with classmates and current and former faculty members.
2025–2026 State of the School Reports: Chilton House (age 2–K), Little School (grades 1–4), Morrow House (grades 5–8), Advancement, Auxiliary Programs, Communications and Marketing, Community Life, Enrollment, Facilities and Operations, and Finances.
