Past Events
Peace Week 2025
From left to right: Bo Lauder, Helen Rhim ’93, Jodyann Blagrove ’94, Derrick Gibbs ’72, Meredith Evans ’90, Tamar Davis ’12, Jocelyn Anker ’87, Annah Heckman ’15, Marjorie Jean-Paul and Michael Mudho.
Friends Seminary is grateful to all the alumni who attended a wonderful dinner at Vallata celebrating Dr. Meredith Evans '90. It was truly remarkable to see such a range of classes represented, from the Class of 1972 to 2012. The spirit of Friends Seminary, which Meredith so eloquently captured in her keynote address, was palpable in the room. There were many smiles, much laughter, and genuine conversations, all of which made the evening so special. In addition to the alumni in attendance, faculty and staff also had the opportunity to make new connections with fellow members of the Friends community. Head of School, Bo Lauder led a toast to thank Meredith for taking time out of her busy schedule to join us and deliver such a wonderful speech.
Lunar New Year
On Friday, January 31, Friends Seminary joyfully kicked off the Year of the Snake at the 34th Annual Lunar New Year Celebration! This year is said to be one of transformation, renewal, and growth—a time to shed the old and embrace new opportunities!
From dazzling performances to delicious festive treats, the celebration was filled with joy, tradition, and community spirit. But beyond the festivities, this event holds a deeper purpose: proceeds from the celebration support the Henry Lee ‘43 Memorial Scholarship Fund, ensuring that Henry Lee’s legacy of kindness, leadership, and opportunity continues for future generations.
Spirit Day
On February 7 Friends Seminary celebrated Spirit Day and it was an absolute HOOT! Huge thanks to our amazing volunteers from the Parents Association for making it a day to remember. The energy, pride, and school spirit soared to new heights!
Art Preview For The Contemporary Art Auction
Joanne Agabs
Ring Ding, 2024
Colored Pencil on Paper
The Contemporary Art Auction is curated by the volunteer Art Committee and takes place at the annual Benefit auction, kick-ing off with an Art Preview on February 20th. The Friends Seminary 2025 Contemporary Art Auction will feature art from Sean Cavanaugh '87, parents of alumni, Patrik Graham (Ava Graham '29 & Isis Graham '31, Purdy Eaton (Sawyer ’25) and grandparent & parent of alum, Suzanne Anker (Jocelyn Anker ’87 & Esme ’25). Alumni are encouraged to join in celebrating the incredible artistic talent of the Friends community. Click here to take a moment to look through the art and make a bid! Online bidding begins Thursday, February 22 and closes Friday, March 7 at noon.
Proceeds from the Art Auction support the Artists for Artists Endowed Fund, which contributes to financial assistance for the children of practicing artists at Friends Seminary. Friends Seminary’s unique history connects it to the art culture of the city; the School has educated the children of renowned artists, many of whom live in the surrounding neighborhoods. A robust arts program has always been a part of a Friends education, and we continue to encourage parents in the creative community to apply for admission to the school.
Upcoming Events
First Annual Linda Monssen Memorial Concert | March 1, 2025
Contemporary Art Auction | February 22 - March 7, 2025
Alumni Career Symposium | April 18, 2025
Reunion | Friday through Saturday, May 16-17, 2025
Contact mmudho@friendsseminary.org for more information.
First Annual | Linda Monssen Memorial Concert
Concert with Opera Essentia, co-founded by Linda
Led by Countertenor Jeffrey Mandelbaum ’91
Saturday, March 1, 2025
3:00pm
Please come celebrate the legacy of Friends Seminary's luminary teacher of music and voice, Linda Monssen (1939-2023). Over her several decades at our school, Linda nurtured thousands of students, helping many to find and develop their voices, and themselves.
She was a mentor for 33 years to Friends alum Jeffrey Mandelbaum, who started Opera Essentia with her in 2022. The company's performances have been described as "titillating and delightful... (in) communities which rarely experience this most improbable art."
This One-Hour Concert/Conversation will showcase three world-class opera singers, company founding harpsichordist, as well as first violinist, playing with baroque performance practice.
This Winter Preview introduces Opera Essentia's work and mission: To bring under-reached NYC neighborhoods Handel's little-known works for FREE. You will hear excerpts of "The Queen's Heart", their hour-long Distillation of Radamisto, coming this spring.
Comments