Calvert Honors Dick Riggs '51, Debuts New Giving Society at Banner Society Reception

Board Chairman, Ned Insley, thanked donors for their support and shared thoughtful remarks about Dick Riggs ’51. Mr. Insley discussed the Riggs’ family legacy at Calvert, noting Dick’s father, Richard Sr. was a member of Calvert’s Class of 1921. His siblings, Mary ’48, Ellie ’53, and Pinkie ’57 also attended Calvert, as did Dick’s children, Charlotte ’98 and George ’00.

As Mr. Insley shared, “Dick attributed much of his later success in life to Calvert, where he learned research skills and to be analytical, and he often said the math he used in life, he learned at Calvert. His dedication to Calvert was unwavering and his contributions have helped us to achieve so much.”

Mr. Riggs left an indelible mark on Calvert, and stayed in touch with many members of his class, several of whom joined us Friday evening. 

Head Master Andrew Holmgren echoed Mr. Insley’s gratitude for our donors’ support of Calvert, and gave an update on both the Luetkemeyer Athletic Center and spring programming.

Mr. Holmgren shared, “Since opening in early October, the Luetkemeyer Athletic Center has brought joy to our School. It is a thriving hub of athleticism, sportsmanship, and community. We are endlessly grateful to Jack ’53, Susie, and all of the generous supporters who made this building possible.”

Mr. Holmgren shared a snapshot of some of the meaningful experiences provided to our students this spring, like Seventh Graders’ participation at the Model United Nations at Georgetown, our attendance - and stellar placement - at the recent Latin Certamen competition at Harvard University, and an Institute for Leadership & Purpose journey to Puerto Rico. Mr. Holmgren celebrated our Eighth Graders’ staggering 151 acceptances to over 20 different high schools. He also provided an update on construction of the new Lower School Music and Science Wing. 

Lastly, Mr. Holmgren proudly launched Calvert’s newest donor recognition society, The Edward W. Brown, Sr. Society. Named for one of Calvert’s most beloved Head Masters, the Brown Society recognizes Calvert’s premier benefactors for their generosity and lifetime cumulative giving of $100,000 or more.  

Mr. Brown, who served as Head Master from 1940 to 1965 and consulted long after, emphasized the Calvert principles of hard work, neatness, and accuracy, while working diligently to improve the administration of the School and embrace the modern philosophy of the “well-rounded” child. 

In addition to the basic subjects, and fostering an environment of respect and responsibility, Mr. Brown firmly believed “athletic competition must be part of the spiral of learning.”

How fitting to celebrate The Edward W. Brown Sr. Society at the Luetkemeyer Athletic Center, a building he would have loved. 

Calvert is grateful for the opportunity to recognize and honor our esteemed and loyal supporters whose generosity significantly impacts our students, teachers, and programs.