June 11, 2026
Principles into Practice
How donors propel financial aid forwardOne hundred percent. That’s how much Andover believes in its students and its mission.
It’s a conviction fully realized through commensurate action. Each year, with intention, Andover meets 100 percent of the demonstrated need of admitted students, a commitment deeply rooted in the school’s founding principles. And it only happens through the partnership and collective generosity of alumni, families, and friends who make financial aid a philanthropic priority.
Annually, more than 1,500 benefactors direct $12 million-plus to support the 47 percent of PA students who depend on scholarships to defray educational costs. Such potent impact has a profound effect on Andover Hill, facilitating access and opportunity across a diverse student body—as well as safeguarding the school’s need-blind admission policy. But what motivates these dedicated donors?
Gifts to financial aid enable Andover to proactively seek the most talented students, those who have the greatest potential to make a difference. Being part of that effort, as a donor, is very rewarding.
”“My time at Andover was so formative, and that’s because of the friends I made, people from all over,” says Vivek Garipalli ’96. He was recently inspired to increase his original investment of a single scholarship, made in 2011, to a comprehensive scholarship program for multiple students, amplifying the reach of his philanthropy and bolstering PA’s financial aid resources.
“I know need-blind admission is a financially difficult thing for an institution to undertake, and I always respected Andover’s firm stake in the ground,” he says. “I remember telling myself that if I were ever able to give substantially, financial aid was something I wanted to contribute to. I hope that my gift empowers students to take risks, to be entrepreneurial, to create valuable networks, and to carve their own path in the world.”
In similar non sibi spirit, members of the Class of 1965 celebrated their 60th Reunion by rallying for non-tuition financial assistance for students in need. The Youth From Every Quarter Fund focuses on the student experience, discreetly covering costs for necessities like warm coats, musical instruments, travel expenses, and college visits.
“From the beginning, PA has devoted itself to recruiting and supporting and teaching youth from all backgrounds and perspectives, from every quarter. In this way, Andover is America’s high school,” says Randy Evans ’65, who encourages alumni from all years to contribute to the fund with gifts of any size.
“It’s important for Andover to be inclusive,” adds Evans, “for all students to feel welcome and able to take part in this incredible educational endeavor to learn, grow, and thrive together.”
For more information about this priority, please contact Director of Academy Advancement Nicole Cherubini.
Categories: Philanthropy
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