The Shipley Magazine

Goal #2: Community Engagement

What has Shipley done to cultivate a vibrant culture of pride in, engagement with, and commitment to the School?

A strong community has always been at the heart of the Shipley experience. In recent years, the School has supported initiatives that build on Vision 20/26 Goal 2, most notably by redoubling its efforts to bring the community together on campus during and after COVID. Through a carefully planned combination of longstanding events like Super Saturday, new events like Convocation, and the re-envisioning of volunteer opportunities like Green Thumb into the Blooms Crew, Shipley continues to show the value it places on and derives from strong community involvement.

Celebrating 50 Years of Secret Gardens

Fifty years ago, Shipley mothers began this tradition to ward off the winter doldrums by hosting tours of local greenhouses. This was initially started as a “friendraiser.” Its success was evident immediately and in its third year the tour moved to May and started to host outside gardens. This year, the tour will feature some of the gardens and horticulture programs at Shipley, in addition to local gardens with Shipley ties.

Creating Opportunities for Connection

Shipley is committed to bringing together its vibrant community in a variety of ways—from spirited games and acts of service, to art receptions, alumni reunions, and affinity groups. No matter your age or connection to Shipley, there is a way for everyone to get involved. 

1. Upper School students cheer on their team at Swamp Night.  
2. Convocation ushers in a new tradition and school year. 
3. Middle School student volunteers shine at the Thanksgiving Food Drive Pack-Up.  
4. A Little Acorn shares a laugh with his Mighty Oaks.  
5. Sharing art and good company at a Speer Gallery Artist Reception.  
6. Family members of third graders help learning come to life at the Ellis Island Simulation.  
7. Alumni Council and Alumni Affinity Group leaders gather at Alumni Reunion Weekend.  
8. Spring Auction guests embrace the theme of Prom.  
9. Blooms Crew volunteers spruce up planters across campus.  
10. Making smoothies to support Brain Tree at Super Saturday.  
11. Members of the Class of 1993 strike a pose with former teacher and Honorary Alum, Greg Coleman.
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The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.