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The Richard Whitcomb Tribute Dinner

M. Paulson/VGP
From Associate Director of Development Meg Paulson: 

More than 350 members of St. Luke's extended community gathered together on Friday, October 21 to honor and celebrate Headmaster Emeritus Dick Whitcomb and his innumerable contributions to St. Luke's School.
 
Over $1,300,000 was raised for the Richard M. Whitcomb Scholarship Endowed Fund, which enables "students with proven academic and co-curricular potential, strength of character and demonstrated financial need to attend St. Luke's School." Since the inception of the fund in 2003, eight students have been awarded Whitcomb Scholarships, and four of those scholars and/or their families were in attendance on Friday night. 
 
St. Luke’s alumni, current and past parents, trustees, faculty, staff and friends spent the evening at The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s in Darien, (owned by St. Luke’s Parents of Alumni Sal and JoAnn Latorraca), laughing, dancing and celebrating Mr. Whitcomb’s humor, generosity and huge heart.
 
Head of School Mark Davis kicked off the night by welcoming guests and sharing his personal tribute to Dick, reflecting that "you can learn a lot about a man when you attempt to fill his shoes."
 
Davis was followed by Doug Stewart '07,the first recipient of the Whitcomb Scholarship who reflected that, "sometimes all a young person needs to succeed is to be given the right opportunity and a support system. I am truly thankful that the Whitcomb scholarship provided both of these things to me". 
 
Kathryn Godfrey '92 talked about how Mr. Whitcomb has been there for her again and again over the last twenty plus years. "Once you are a student of Mr. Whitcomb, you are always his student, and I am so grateful for that."
 
Dick’s children, Jon '83 and Andrea '83 Whitcomb, spoke about Dick as a father and a Headmaster. "He knew when to wink" Jon recounted, referring to his father’s ability to see the big picture and keep a sense of humor throughout his 22-year tenure as Headmaster. Andy and Jon both acknowledged their mother Barbara impact at St. Luke’s and as a source of strength for their family.
 
Honoree Dick Whitcomb spoke about how his own humble beginnings inspired his work to make life better for others. 
 
Latania Langley '93 closed the speaking portion of the evening with a glowing tribute of Dick and the transformational power of having someone truly believe in you.
 
Thanks to everyone who attended or supported this event.  Your involvement meant the world to Dick and will continue to have meaning for the Whitcomb Scholars of St. Luke’s School. 
 
More event photos will be shared in the coming weeks.  
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St. Luke’s School is a secular (non-religious), private school in New Canaan, CT for grades 5 through 12 serving over 35 towns in Connecticut and New York. Our exceptional academics and diverse co-educational community foster students’ intellectual and ethical development and prepare them for top colleges. St. Luke’s Center for Leadership builds the commitment to serve and the confidence to lead.