The event, during the school’s 75th anniversary year, was a huge success as faculty, staff and students welcomed more than 300 grandparents and grand friends to The Hill.

Spartans grandparents and grand friends traveled from near and far to experience a special morning connecting with students during St. Stephen’s historic 75th anniversary celebration. Early morning rain showers gave way to clear skies and sunshine as students escorted their loved ones around campus, some hand in hand. The annual half-day event gives grandparents a meaningful insight into the rich academic and cultural life of St. Stephen’s.

Judy Sargent GP ’26, fashionably dressed and on brand in Spartan red and purple, was all smiles as her grandson, J.P. Kim ’26, escorted her into the Chapel. Sue Ritter GP ’26 flew in from California to spend time with her granddaughter, Gabi Curtis ’26. She enjoyed performances by the Upper School Orchestra and Chorale, and Head of School Chris Gunnin’s chapel talk about living into Jesus’ commandment of actively serving and loving others. 

“My heart is here,” said Ritter, referring to the chapel service. “This is the part I love the most.”

Next, she was off to class with Curtis. From Middle School classrooms in Gunn Hall to Upper School science labs in Hines, guests expressed feeling like students again, taking part in classroom activities and lively discussions. The day wrapped up with a delicious lunch in the dining hall.

Grand Day would not be possible without the help of event parent chairs Kathy Cloyd P ’26, ’23, Stephanie Saur P ’27, ’24, and Jane Talebi P ’27, ’31, along with countless other parent volunteers.

Annual Fund grandparent chairs Betty Bachman Osborne ’62 and Duncan Osborne ’62, P ’96, ’86, GP ’26, ’20, ’16 are honoring the school’s past, present and future by spearheading a $75,000 giving challenge from the Susan Vaughan Foundation. Offered in honor of the school’s 75th anniversary, the challenge will match every gift to the Annual Fund through July 31, 2026, or until the challenge is met — doubling the impact of grandparent generosity. Betty and Duncan hope to inspire fellow grandparents to join them in supporting the school that has shaped generations of students.

“St. Stephen’s has been an important part of our lives for many years,” shared Betty and Duncan. “It is especially meaningful to support the school that is educating our grandchildren and preparing them for lives of purpose and service.”

To join the Osbornes and help St. Stephen’s meet its $75,000 giving challenge, visit the giving page.

The St. Stephen's community can view the full gallery of Grand Day photos here. The password is on the SmugMug tile in MySSES.