Celebrating the Past, Building the Future

I was fortunate to get introduced to Perkiomen School at a pivotal moment in my life. I had just come back home after running away. I was given a choice between Perkiomen School and Mercersburg Military Academy. And I believe I made the right choice.

It took a little bit to get used to being away from home but the kids that were there welcomed me, mid year as it was. I was on 'A' floor of Kreibel Hall (pre-fire). I don't remember my roommate but I know I had one. I remember having to be at my desk during the week from 7 pm to 9 pm. I think a lot of hijinks took place that I kind of zoned out.

It was a big change from public high school and I recall getting used to it pretty quickly. So many places on campus or around campus are gone or changed. But so many memories remain. The kids that I met and started friendships with are still in touch as I am 53 years out from graduation. Some are Facebook friends, some are fellow alums when I was able to get back to school easier.

But each time I come back the friendships are rekindled in moments and we are like we were so many years ago.

Now I am in Texas, a mere 1,500 miles away but I can't hop in the car and drive 15 minutes to be on campus. I also wanted to mention that the 25th of October is a special day in my life. Had my wife, Carol, not passed on from cancer, this weekend would have been our 45th wedding anniversary. 

So much time has passed but not a day goes by that I don't remember fondly all the friends I made and all the friends that I still have so many years down the road in my life. Perkiomen School is etched in my mind and my soul. I hold it near to my heart.

Christopher Heller '72

It’s awesome to think that I’ve called Perkiomen “home” for almost half of my life. Arriving as a 10^th grade transfer, I was nervous to begin at a new school, and I will never forget the faculty who noticed me and carefully looked out for me during my first few weeks on campus. A lot has changed in the 14 years since, but I’m happy that I’ve kept in contact with many of my former teachers, and they’re still some of my biggest supporters.

Once I settled in, I also made a great group of friends through my classes, stage crew, and the day student lounge. Despite being a small community, I always felt like I had new opportunities to grow and learn new things about myself and the world. My transition into college was completely seamless - thanks to my experiences at Perk, I knew how to challenge myself, self-advocate, get involved, and be a leader.

Even though some of my friends live internationally or across the country, I still think of them fondly and love seeing them build their lives over social media. When I got married in the Stefano Meditation Garden in 2022, I felt so lucky to have had some of my day student friends in my bridal party. We’ve continued to show up for each other throughout the years, and I’m forever grateful to Perkiomen for creating an environment for me to find my confidence and my people.

Abigail Rose-Craver '14

It is hard to believe, but I was a senior at Perkiomen when we celebrated its 100th anniversary! The drama group put on “Best Foot Forward,” a musical written by an alumnus. Several of us dressed in period costumes for an alumni gathering (photo below). Even though I know it will be our 50th reunion year, to see that it’s now 150 is a real eye-opener. Hopefully, 200 is in our future.

Lee Kiefaber Melnyk '76