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Giving to SSA


Giving is the Shady Side Way

Graduates hugging

Shady Side Academy’s legacy was founded in philanthropy, and to this day, the spirit of giving remains at the heart of who we are. Founded by Pittsburgh’s pioneering industrialists in 1883, Shady Side was created not just as a school but as a bold investment in the next generation of leaders who would transform the city and the world. From its earliest days in a one-room schoolhouse, SSA has been shaped by a shared commitment to building a brighter future together.

Over 140 years later, that same culture of community-driven philanthropy continues to power everything we do. The Blue & Gold Fund is the modern expression of that legacy, bringing together alumni, parents, faculty, and friends to support the people, programs, and places that define a Shady Side education. It’s not just about sustaining the school; it’s about ensuring that every student has the opportunity to experience how an extraordinary education can be transformative. Together, we carry forward the vision of our founders and keep the SSA legacy alive for future generations.

Students on staircase

“Shady Side has always found itself in periods between a settled way of life we have understood and a new way of life we are trying to build.”

Samuel S. GreeneFormer Shady Side Academy President

Bold in Blue, Brilliant in Gold

The Blue & Gold Fund is Shady Side’s annual fund, directly supporting the people, programs, and places that make the Academy thrive. While tuition covers much, it’s the Blue & Gold Fund that allows us to do more beyond what tuition provides and what it truly costs to deliver the exceptional, transformative education our students benefit from.

Every dollar given to the Blue & Gold Fund goes straight to work. Your support enhances the student experience in ways both big and small:

Student on computer
Empowering Students

From innovative classroom technologies to enriching field experiences, your gift equips our students to explore, grow, and flourish.

Faculty
Supporting Teachers

Professional development opportunities help our educators remain leaders in their fields, inspiring the next generation of changemakers.

Girl doing science
Strengthening Programs

Unique offerings like the Science Research Seminar, Outdoor Adventures, and Immersives are made possible by the Blue & Gold Fund.

Teacher with book
Enriching Environments

Safe, vibrant, and dynamic learning spaces—from state-of-the-art labs to outdoor classrooms—are supported by your generosity.

 

 


The Blue & Gold Fund is vital because it allows Shady Side Academy to go beyond the basics. It empowers us to provide the kind of education that doesn’t just prepare students for the future but prepares them to lead it. Every gift—no matter the size—makes a tangible difference, shaping the experiences of every student, every day.


 

Leading the Way

The Founders Society recognizes Shady Side’s most generous supporters—individuals whose leadership gifts to the Blue & Gold Fund at the highest levels drive innovation, opportunity, and excellence at SSA, embodying the vision of our founders.

 

$25,000 and Beyond

President's Circle

$10,000–$24,999

Leadership Circle

$5,000–$9,999

Ambassador Circle

$2,500–$4,999

Founders Society Member

$1–$2,499

Donor

 

 


Why Your Gift Matters

Participation in the Blue & Gold Fund is more than just a donation; it’s a statement. It’s a vote of confidence in Shady Side’s mission and a powerful way to show that you believe in the transformative power of a Shady Side education.

Teacher

 

Students at graduation

 

By joining the thousands of parents, alumni, faculty, and friends who contribute annually, you’re ensuring that every Shady Side student—whether in junior pre-k or grade 12—has the tools, guidance, and opportunities they need to thrive. Together, we can move Shady Side forward.

Every Story Has a Hero: You

Thanks to your support, the story of Shady Side is written by your generosity. Our annual Donor Impact Report highlights the programs, projects, and opportunities made possible through our community’s collective philanthropy.

 

2023–2024 Donor Impact Report

 

Past Donor Impact Reports

Donors

Join Us in Shaping Shady Side's Future

Rockwell Middle School is rising as the next step in this evolution. Funded through philanthropy, it is a testament to the extraordinary generosity of our community. To date, we have secured more than $21 million in commitments supporting Rockwell Middle School's, ranging from $10,000 to $10 million. As we move closer to realizing this vision, we are actively engaging key philanthropic partners to help bridge the remaining $5 million in needed support for this facility—ensuring that it and the broader campus transformation continue to take shape for generations to come.

 

Explore the Campus Master Plan

 

 


All the Details, All in One Place

Here to Support Your Generosity

Jamie Scott ’98 P’33,’35,’36

Jamie Scott ’98 P’33,’35,’36

Chief Philanthropy Officer
Dave Freemann P’29

Dave Freemann P’29

Director of Major Gifts
Katie Modic P’32,’34

Katie Modic P’32,’34

Director of Annual Giving
Britton Wean ’02

Britton Wean ’02

Associate Director of Alumni and Donor Relations

Gene Deal P’01,’04,’09

Alumni Engagement Officer
Betty Herrington P’08,’14

Betty Herrington P’08,’14

Alumni & Development Assistant

If you would like to discuss making a gift with a member of our team,
please reach out to the Alumni & Development office at development@shadysideacademy.org