The Advancement Office held its 10th annual President’s Spotlight Dinner March 11 to thank families who have supported financial aid in the past.
The event, chaired by Josh and Beth Friedman (Spencer ’09, Wesley ’12, Oliver ’17), included a buffet and cocktails and lasted from 6 to 8 p.m.
“Education is the great equalizer. It is the magic potion that opens doors and opens minds,” said Friedman who, with his wife, gave the opening speech.
Seniors on financial aid, trustees, prospective donors, and alumni who were on financial aid during their time at Harvard-Westlake also attended.
“It’s quite a special night,” Senior Advancement Officer Jim Pattison said. “Some regard this particular evening as the best event the school throws bar none… This is, in many people’s minds, the best event because it has such a good feel to it.”
Two of the alumni present, Nicole Brown ‘98 and Emanuel Yekutiel ‘07, spoke about what Harvard-Westlake meant to them.
“The school taught me there was nothing I couldn’t conquer. Financial aid gave me and kids like me a chance to soar,” Brown said.
President Tom Hudnut then focused on 12 seniors on financial aid and what they have meant to the school.  He spoke of their academic achievements, successes in sports and other extracurricular activities, as well as their character.
“Never think of [giving financial aid] as money given away.  It is an investment, and tonight we are going to show you a return on your investment,” said Hudnut.
“It’s a night to honor the people who have made things possible but also a chance for donors to realize a reciprocal relationship in that they’ve made an investment in these students, and now they can see how fortunate Harvard-Westlake is to have these students as part of the student body,” Pattison said.