The Class of ‘58:
A Long, Strong Thread

By Mary Shafer

Students of the Class of ‘58 probably weren’t aware that along with their other studies, they were learning to weave. The fabric they began was that of their lives, and one of the strongest threads running through the bolt, now forty years long, is service. Jack Templeton, Master of Ceremonies for their recent reunion, believes this reflects the Quaker philosophy of “Minding the Light,” developing the skills and traits of the individual for the benefit of the entire community.

This year, the community benefiting from their service is George School itself. Harry Tomlinson, longtime volunteer fundraiser, oversaw an effort that garnered more than $40,000 for the Annual Fund, a record for class gifts outside those from 50th reunions. The donation marks a new phase in the Reunion Giving Program, begun last October with a leader seminar facilitated by Alumni Director Shane Scanlin, attended by Harry and Jack.

Jack sent members a questionnaire concerning their lives since graduation so he could arrange activities for Alumni Day. Harry contacted half a dozen classmates with the idea of matching contributions to form the nucleus of a Challenge Grant. They responded with gusto, donating $25,000 and encouraging their fellow ‘58ers to follow suit. And follow they did, kicking in over $15,000 to top the goal of $40,000.

“I’m very proud of the response our class showed,” says Harry. “We’ve had consistent enthusiasm.”

Jack agrees. “We had great support, even from those who couldn’t attend.”

Those who did attend showed their class spirit, braving heavy rain to join classmates for a day of reminiscing. That evening, the Marshall Center sheltered more than 45 members who gathered for what Harry and Jack felt was the day’s most valuable event. For almost three hours, the old friends recounted the colors and textures their life fabric had revealed through the years.

Jack marveled at two other threads running through the shared stories: the diversity and creativity each had shown in pursuing their vocations and their lives. The George School influence shone brightly, one that “was about reaching out beyond oneself. It’s not enough just to be good at a job. We must all be part of the growth of those around us.”

Jack and Harry are pleased with their class’ efforts to contribute to this tradition. They want other young minds to be able to benefit from the unique qualities of such an education.

“I hope students will appreciate the rich heritage we have in this country,” states Jack, “to be able to pursue individual interests for the greater good, and to be able to find a school model which supports that freedom.”

Shane Scanlin believes the Challenge Grant was a strong factor in the fundraising success. This approach allows class members to see the depth of each other’s commitment to the continuing success of their alma mater, and provides an immediate avenue to express their own enthusiasm. The Class of ‘58’s dedication is apparent in the fact that so many members came together on a dreary, rainy May day to celebrate their common past.

Harry recalls, “People who hadn’t been to (a reunion) in years, and some who I believe had never attended before were there (this year).” Asked why he thinks that happened he pauses, then refers to another, less distinct thread in the Class of ‘58 fabric.

“I don’t know if you can name it. Something special started here forty years ago.”