Walking into Derryfield on the first day of classes made me nervous - that is, until I entered Mr. Coogan’s English class. He addressed me as Miss Pappas and talked about Poopsie warbling. At that moment, I realized that my teachers would challenge me to think for myself and draw my own conclusions.

When I entered college, I became aware of how well Derryfield prepared me for my next level of education. It gave me confidence and inspired me to try new things. I then got my degree in elementary education and taught first grade for five years. After that, I changed career paths completely. I was drawn in by my family business, and for the past 36 years I have worked at the Puritan Backroom.

I contribute to the Annual Fund every year because I believe in the opportunities Derryfield provides for its students. It’s important to support the School’s mission of quality education. I attribute my success to the confidence I developed at Derryfield, which is why I know my gifts to the School make a difference.

I hope you will join me in making a gift to the 2016-2017 Annual Fund.