The Conard Class of 1974 has donated more than $4,500 to help current seniors enjoy graduation activities, and they are hoping that other alumni will join the challenge to ‘pay it forward.’
Class picture from the 40th Conard High School Class of ’74 reunion held Nov 8, 2014. Submitted photo
Submitted by Conard Class of 1974
On Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014, the Conard High School Class of 1974 celebrated its 40th Reunion. Around 100 classmates attended and had the opportunity to share memories and catch up on the past 40 years!
During the planning phase, the Reunion Committee learned that a number of our classmates had died. The Committee wanted to recognize these classmates so, along with the Reunion invitations, sent a request for donations in their honor. The donated funds would be provided to Conard to help graduating students in need pay for caps, gowns, yearbooks, and similar expenses.
The solicitation was highly successful and the Reunion Committee presented a check for $1,500 on behalf of the Class of 1974 to Principal Julio Duarte on Jan. 6, 2015.
Following the presentation, the Committee notified our classmates of the donation amount. At this point, Tracy Root ’74 issued a challenge to the Class that was sent out by email and through Facebook. Tracy, who had already donated $100, said he would donate an additional $100 and, if 29 other classmates donated $100, he would donate another $100. Donations started coming in and a local business pledged $100, as did Tracy Root, if the “Challenge” reached $4,500. As of Feb. 11, 2015, the Challenge donations from the Class of 1974 hit $3,100! Tracy graciously made his additional $100 payment!
The “Challenge” has now been issued to ALL Conard graduates. This is a great opportunity for graduates to “Pay It Forward” to make sure that every senior, regardless of his/her financial circumstances, enjoys the hoopla at the end of their public school careers. Some employers may match donations … more for the Challenge fund, and contributions may be tax deductible depending upon the donor’s individual circumstances.
Anyone interested in making a donation of ANY AMOUNT, may send a check payable to “Conard High School.” Please put “Senior Fund” in the comment line of the check. Mail to: Conard High School, 110 Beechwood Road, West Hartford, CT 06107, Attention: Cathy Jordan. GO CONARD!!!
