From the moment they stepped on campus, Cathy and Sheldon Berger, grandparents to Emma B. ’25 and Griffin B. ’27, knew Campbell Hall was a special place. “Head of School Julian Bull gave us a tour, and as he walked us around, he knew every student’s name and greeted them with love,” said Cathy. “We are a very close family. To us, family is everything. We knew this was the right place for our grandchildren.”

Cathy and Sheldon are active volunteers as part of the Grandparents’ Committee. Whether handing out cookies to secondary students on “Cookie Day,” providing tasty desserts for faculty and staff appreciation lunches, taking part in the Parent Mindfulness Group, attending performances and games their grandchildren are involved with, or participating in Grandparents’ and Special Friends’ Day, they relish the chance to be part of the bustling campus life. From this vantage point, they see how their grandchildren thrive.

“Both of our grandchildren started CH in 6th grade, and from day one, their classmates welcomed and included them,” explained Cathy. ”Over the years, Emma and Griffin have formed great friendships that will last a lifetime.” Sheldon added: “The supportive faculty help prepare them for life through real-world skills like public speaking and, as a result, we have seen our grandchildren gain a sense of self-assurance and confidence.”

This extraordinary couple is always looking for ways to support Campbell Hall. Cathy and Sheldon are members of Campbell Hall’s Legacy Society, which was created to thank and recognize generous donors whose planned gifts ensure the school's strong and sustainable financial future. “It’s one way we can support the school we love, which provides enrichment for so many children in so many ways,” noted Cathy.

Cathy and Sheldon were inspired to participate in CH NEXT: The Campaign for The Holiday Center when they learned how impactful it would be on all students' lives. “Having seen how much our grandchildren benefit from their Campbell Hall education, we wanted to show our gratitude to the school,” said Cathy. The modern classrooms, expansive gym, and improved grounds were especially appealing to them. “We have faith in this administration, so if they think it’s important to the school, then it’s important to us,” added Sheldon. “We are so grateful for what Campbell Hall provides to all students.”

Campbell Hall will recognize the Berger family’s generous gift to The Holiday Center by naming a 6th-grade classroom in their honor. Given how special this time was in their grandchildren’s lives, it will be a fitting tribute.