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Putting Philanthropy in Historical Context
During Sarah Westerberg’s 8th grade history class study of the Gilded Age (1865-1914), students participated in a Solicitation Symposium where they conceptualized organizations advocating for those in need during that era. Each small group created an imaginary nonprofit organization which would have given assistance to those struggling during the Gilded Age. The groups then wrote mission statements and prepared a visual presentation and pitch. To help prepare, Director of Development Ninette Enrique spoke with the class about philanthropy and how to approach solicitation. The Symposium concluded with group presentations to peers and "potential donors" (several teachers & administrators). Some of the non-profit organizations conceptualized included one to teach English to Asian immigrants, and another to counteract the atrocities committed by the Ku Klux Klan.
This annual assignment is structured to encourage deeper learning. “This project-based assignment requires students to define a problem, brainstorm solutions, create a prototype of their idea and then test it during the symposium,” Westerberg shared. “It teaches the material but also requires the students to be engaged and empathetic. Students learn to clearly and persuasively present their appeal to their classmates and ‘donors’ and answer any follow up questions.”
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.
