Sandy Spring Friends School Receives $2.1 Million Foundation Gift for Athletic Center Renovation

Sandy Spring Friends School (SSFS) is proud to announce a transformational $2.1 million gift from a private foundation with meaningful ties to the School’s Middle and Upper School students. This extraordinary contribution will fully fund the replacement of the roof and HVAC systems in the SSFS Athletic Center–a critical investment that enhances the student experience–while freeing up operational dollars to directly support our programs, faculty, staff, and students.

“This gift is a powerful testament to the enduring belief in the future of Sandy Spring Friends School,” said Dr. Sean Hamer, Head of School. “By addressing essential infrastructure needs, this foundation is making it possible for us to channel more resources into what matters most: our people and our programs.”

The renovation of the Athletic Center, a cornerstone of student life and wellness at SSFS, ensures a safer, healthier, and more energy-efficient environment for school athletics and community gatherings. Work on the Athletic Center is currently underway, with upgrades expected to be completed shortly into the 2025–26 school year.

This gift comes at a pivotal moment as SSFS enters a new chapter, bolstered by the resilience and unity of its community. The foundation’s investment serves not only as a vote of confidence in the school’s direction, but as an invitation for others to imagine what’s possible when we come together to support a bold future.

“We are profoundly grateful for the generosity and commitment of this Sandy Spring family,” said Savannah Renehan, Director of Institutional Advancement. “This transformational gift is a powerful testament to the strength of our community and its belief in our shared future. It reflects a collective determination to ensure that Sandy Spring Friends School continues to thrive for generations to come.”

SSFS looks forward to recognizing the foundation’s support in a way that honors their preference for privacy while celebrating the profound impact of their gift.

For more information about SSFS or to explore giving opportunities, please visit the School website, or contact our Director of Institutional Advancement, Savannah Renehan.