Last Saturday’s Founders Day Celebration at Saint Edward’s School took on special meaning with a commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the prestigious school. The multigenerational crowd of students, alumni, parents, faculty, and supporters gathered to applaud the school’s remarkable first half-century and look to its future.
Former Head of School Peter Benedict, whose tenure at St. Edward’s spanned from 1969 to 1995, was unable to attend but was unquestionably in the hearts and minds of everyone there.
“It’s hard to believe his time at St. Ed’s is half of the 50th anniversary years,” said Anne Storch, Director of Advancement, before listing some of his numerous achievements. “Peter was clearly pivotal in the evolution of the school.”
Introducing Bruce Wachter, hired in 1973 and currently Associate Head of School and Head of the Upper School, she said, “We are all grateful for his amazing versatility and steadfast dedication.”
“Time flies when you’re having fun,” Wachter quipped. Fresh out of college, Wachter remembered Benedict telling him, “I’m offering you the opportunity to be part of and to grow with what I believe will be an outstanding school; destined to be one of the best in the region.”
Wachter praised the educational pioneers who enabled that vision to become a reality, and took the audience on a trip down memory lane with before and after slides that highlighted the growth of the school.
Dale Sorensen was in his 20s when he was hired in 1966 and that same year became the school’s second Head Master. He left that position in 1969 but remained an ardent supporter, serving on the board of trustees for 27 years.
Vero Beach was still a very small town in 1965, and the school’s initial enrollment was 31. It grew to 34 that first year and quickly expanded to 157 by 1967. Current enrollment is 540 students.
“I can assure you that Saint Edward’s is here today because of the collective effort, sacrifice and dedication of many, many people,” said Sorensen, telling of the school’s many financial struggles and thanking those who were instrumental in keeping it afloat.
Sorensen shared that Benedict was the anonymous donor listed in fundraising campaigns and often refused to take a salary. “He felt it was much more important for the school to continue and be able to exist. His concern, his dedication and his contribution to the school are truly unmatched.”
Misty Minton, 1977 alumna and former trustee, said 1999 students have graduated from the school. She praised the consistently exceptional teaching staff and the school’s high standards, adding, “For many of our parents it is a sacrifice to send us, but it is well worth it.”
“Over the course of 50 years, the community of parents, grandparents, faculty, friends and our growing ranks of alumni have always ultimately been there for the school when the chips were down,” said Ron Edwards, current board chairman, adding that by February 2016 the school will become debt-free.
Presenting flowers to founding member Mary Lou Hammond, Mike Mersky, Head of School, said, “I would like to thank a great woman who has been part of Saint Edward’s School since it was only a dream.” Hammond’s children Sue and Tom were enrolled in the first class.
Mersky reiterated the goals he read at his investiture in 2009, saying he delivered them, “So there would be no question about our quest for excellence in all that we do with and for our children.”