LETTER FROM CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER ANN WENDTH

DEAR DONORS TO THE ALBANY ACADEMIES,

This past year has been unlike any other in my professional career. The uncertainty and myriad of challenges we have experienced over the past eight months have been unimaginable. I am so grateful to you – our cherished donors – for your resiliency and support during these unprecedented times. You have shown us time and time again the dedication you have to the Academies and the incredible support you eagerly provide to the school you love. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your thoughtful gifts and messages of support along this journey.

The funds raised during the 2019-20 fiscal year have been critical to helping defray the extraordinary costs we’ve incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Updated technology to support distance learning, widescreen televisions in all classrooms, personal protective equipment, signage, air scrubbers for high-density areas, ventilation solutions, and expanded staff for constant cleaning are just some of the expenses covered by our fundraising efforts. Tuition alone does not support these new costs, which has made the unrestricted dollars from the Annual Fund even more important.

Thank you to the many parents, grandparents, alumnae, alumni, and our professional community for your commitment, both philanthropic and through volunteerism. Your advocacy and support make the Academy experience possible for our bright, exuberant students, and for generations of students to come. We simply could not accomplish what we have been able to during this pandemic without your generosity.

This journey will persist in 2021 and we hope to have your support again in this academic year. I look forward to working with you. Be well and stay safe.

Warmly,

Ann Wendth Director of Institutional Advancement