HISTORIC $350,000 GIFT MARKS LAURALTON HALL’S 120TH ANNIVERSARY
In celebration of its 120th anniversary, Academy of Our Lady of Mercy, Lauralton Hall, Connecticut’s first Catholic college-preparatory school for girls, proudly announces the largest single gift in its history — the Kathleen Spencer and Gerald T. Sargent Jr. Scholarship Fund, a $350,000 endowed scholarship generously funded by Kathleen (Class of ’58) and Gerald’s children, who wished to commemorate their parent’s 65 years of service to Lauralton Hall.
In a joint statement, the family shared that their mother Kathleen’s legacy was the inspiration behind the scholarship.
“Our mother Kathleen Spencer Sargent graduated from Lauralton Hall in 1958 and began volunteering at the school only two years later. For 45 years she and our father have engaged with the school as volunteers in a myriad of ways, despite having no daughters to send to the school. Lauralton Hall has been a constant presence in our parent’s lives, and it would be hard to imagine a greater believer in Lauralton Hall’s mission than our mother. We thought that the 120th anniversary of the school was a fitting moment to recognize our parent’s, and in particular, our mother’s commitment to the school, and provide a lasting financial legacy to support young women seeking to experience Lauralton Hall."
This landmark contribution will provide vital financial assistance to incoming freshmen beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, reinforcing Lauralton Hall's commitment to empowering the next generation of compassionate, confident women.
“This historic gift is a transformative investment in the future of our students and our mission,” said Head of School, Beth Coyne. “It speaks to the profound belief in the power of young women and the enduring legacy of Lauralton Hall.”
Throughout the 120th anniversary year, Lauralton Hall will host a series of signature events to celebrate its heritage, engage the community, and raise additional funds for scholarships and educational programs:
- 120th Birthday Gala: April 26, 2025 – Join us for an elegant evening of dinner, dancing, and celebration. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available.
- Golf Tournament: June 16, 2025 – A day on the green to support Lauralton Athletics. Register now to secure your spot.
- Free Concert on the Lawn: July 17, 2025 – Enjoy a summer evening of community and music from the Rum Runners on our historic campus.
- Alumnae Weekend & Claven Awards: September 20, 2025 – A special gathering to celebrate Lauralton Hall alumnae and recognize outstanding achievements.
- Christmas in the Mansion: December 6-7, 2025 – A beloved holiday tradition, featuring festive décor, shopping, and entertainment.
- Irish Night: February 28, 2026 – An evening of Celtic culture, cuisine, and camaraderie.
Community members, alumnae, and friends of Lauralton Hall are invited to participate in these milestone events. To register for the 120th Birthday Gala and the Golf Tournament, please visit lauraltonhall.org/events or contact Director of Advancement, Kathleen Kearns Donahue ’80 at kdonahue@lauraltonhall.org.
As Lauralton Hall celebrates its past, it remains dedicated to creating opportunities for future generations of young women to learn, lead, and thrive. The generosity of donors like the anonymous benefactor demonstrates a steadfast belief in the power and potential of every Lauralton student.
For media inquiries, please contact Alumnae Relations & Media Manager, Nicole Benson-Ayis, ‘04 at marketing@lauraltonhall.org.
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About Lauralton Hall
Established in 1905 by the Sisters of Mercy, Academy of Our Lady of Mercy, Lauralton Hall educates girls in grades 9 – 12. Lauralton Hall is the first independent Catholic college-preparatory school for girls in Connecticut. Inspired by the Mercy Tradition, Lauralton Hall’s mission is to empower young women to pursue their highest potential through lifelong learning, compassionate service, and responsible leadership in a global society.
Lauralton Hall is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and the Connecticut Department of Education. Lauralton Hall is a member of the Connecticut Association of Schools, Connecticut Association of Independent Schools, and Mercy Education. Lauralton Hall is located at 200 High Street, Milford, CT. For more information, visit