As we approach the final days of Financial Aid February, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Allen and Loreen Vandekerkhove Family Foundation for offering a matching gift of up to $10,000. Their belief in the transformative power of a SMUS education is reflected in our community of donors, including those who walk beside our students every day – their teachers and house parents.
Throughout this month, we’ve shared stories from alumni whose journeys at SMUS were made possible because someone believed in them. For them, and many more, this support was the driving force to take them where they are today. With more than 200 current students receiving financial aid and scholarships, the need is still there for this generation.
The impact of financial aid is felt in countless ways across our campus, but perhaps most clearly by the people who spend their days helping our students learn, grow, and discover their place in the world.
Laura Keziere
French Teacher
Head of Modern Languages
Cross country and track and field coach
Annual Fund Donor
“Over my 41 years at SMUS, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a teacher, coach, department head, and parent. My two daughters were lifers here and had amazing experiences. Throughout that time, I’ve consistently supported financial aid. It’s an area that a lot of teachers choose to give, as you see firsthand the benefit it brings to the classroom: diversity, joy, fresh perspectives, and talents that enrich our school in meaningful ways. While the school has evolved, the strength of our community has never wavered. I love reconnecting with former students, parents, and colleagues at alumni events, and it’s a true honour to now teach the children of students I once taught. Supporting financial aid is, for me, one of the most impactful ways to give back. Our kids are the heart and soul of SMUS, and they are the reason that I choose to donate.”
This is what it looks like when a community stands together for its young people. All gifts—of all sizes—help open a door for a student who dreams of being here.
We hope you will support Financial Aid February in a way that feels meaningful to you, or consider starting a monthly gift.
Nikki Kaufmann
Head of Physical Education
Physical Education Teacher
Senior House Parent of Symons House
Monthly Donor
"At SMUS, our mission, vision, and values truly mean something; we do what we say we do, and we care deeply about providing students with an excellent, well-rounded school experience. As someone who believes in the lasting impact of a great education, I want as many students as possible to have access to what SMUS has to offer. SMUS is a special place to work and to learn, and there is great value in contributing to opportunities that can open doors for families to join our community. Financial aid matters not just for those who receive it, we are all the beneficiaries of our diverse student population.”
Our community of donors gives for many reasons, but at the heart of every gift is the same belief: that every student deserves the chance to learn, grow, and belong here.
Empower students through a gift today and be part of a story that lasts a lifetime.
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