In September, HMP neighbor St. Richard’s Episcopal School (SRS) commemorated its 50th Anniversary with a week-long celebration and the presentation of the inaugural Eugene S. Pulliam Founder’s Medal recognizing distinguished alumni. St. Richard’s alumni David Harris was presented with the Founder’s Medal on September 14 – exactly 50 years after the school’s doors opened in 1960 — by Indianapolis Star columnist Russ Pulliam at the school’s 50th Anniversary Founder’s Day celebration. Mr. Harris is credited with founding the Mind Trust, a local non-profit “whose mission is to improve public education for underserved students by empowering education entrepreneurs to develop or expand transformative education initiatives.”
“David Harris exemplifies the tremendous value and quality of a St. Richard’s education rooted in both the disciplines of a classic curriculum and the ideals and concepts of love, respect, equity, and a just society,” stated Head of School Patricia Swenson. She continued, “Graduates of the school are challenged to use their education to build lives of genuine meaning, purpose and service. Mr. Harris’s visionary work with creating and operating the Mind Trust clearly embodies those earnest standards.”
The Pulliam Medal was named after Eugene S. Pulliam, the former publisher of the Indianapolis Star and Indianapolis News. Pulliam played an important role in the school’s founding 50 years ago. “Mr. Pulliam understood the critical role that education plays in developing strong citizens and strong communities. It is appropriate to name this award in his honor,” said Suzann Lupton, chair of the school’s anniversary committee.
Criteria for the Pulliam Medal call for honorees to be St. Richard’s School alumni who have fulfilled the obligations of their education through creative leadership and service that has benefited society. Recipients of this honor have helped to improve their community in some meaningful way, whether by expanding our knowledge of the world, challenging ideas of what is possible, engaging and empowering others, or providing exemplary and self-less service.
Beyond the Founders Day reception, other facets of the week-long celebration included a Eucharistic chapel with Indianapolis Episcopal Church Bishop, the Right Reverend Catherine Waynick, a school-wide birthday party and a homecoming luncheon for former teachers and staff. The week culminated with Fete, an all-school outdoor carnival, followed by a casual family dinner with live music.