St. Bernard’s High School surpasses $2M in “All In” campaign

The “All In” campaign of St. Bernard’s High School in Fitchburg has surpassed $2 million of its $2.5 million goal in just over a year, according to a press release from Ann Racine, campaign co-chairwoman and a former faculty member.  

In addition, there is a dollar-for-dollar challenge match of new donations, up to $250,000. They must be received by April 30.  

“We are just $80,000 away from attaining the challenge match goal,” said Laura Reynolds, president of the Bernardian Foundation and Class of ‘79. “Therefore, we turn again to our loyal St. Bernard’s community locally and throughout the country to help us succeed.” 

“These funds will enable us to invest in our programs and facilities in support of our strategic plan and provide scholarships and financial aid to our families,” said Dave Sullivan, president of the board of trustees and a member of the Class of ’90.  

The newly independent school has grown its enrollment by 50 percent since 2019 and is on course to welcome its largest freshman class in more than 10 years in the fall of 2021, the press release said. 

Ms. Racine and campaign co-chairwoman Karen Pelletier, Class of ’80, expressed gratitude for support from Bernardians near and far, young and old, including businesses, community philanthropists, foundations, alumni and friends.  

“We have received contributions at every giving level,” said Ms. Pelletier. “They all have gotten us to this point. The words of kindness have been especially heart-warming,” she said. “We have received gifts and encouragement from generational families who have appreciated what a St. Bernard’s education has meant to them.” 

“This has been a challenging year for everyone, including our students, their families, and our faculty,” said Linda Anderson, St. Bernard’s principal. “We have done a good job of navigating through this unusual year and have been able to offer full in-person learning. It is a credit to our remarkable staff and the resilience of our students. We have been buoyed by the support of the community.”

– Donations can be made online at www.bernardian.org or checks can be mailed to The Bernardian Foundation, c/o Rollstone Bank, 24 Monument Square, Leominster, MA 01453.