After several years of building momentum in its quiet phase, Newark Academy has officially launched Ad Lumen: The Campaign for Newark Academy. With nearly $25 million already raised through the generosity and commitment of lead donors, the campaign enters its public phase from a position of strength. Ad Lumen is a $30 million comprehensive campaign supporting three priorities central to the School’s future: expanding financial aid, supporting faculty and staff, and investing in sustainable spaces.
The campaign was first formally introduced to the school community at Newark Academy’s annual Convocation Ceremony on September 3, 2026. Before students and employees, Alumni Board of Governors President Rebecca Moll Freed ’94 shared the vision for Ad Lumen and marked the beginning of this next chapter for the school. During Reunion Weekend on September 26, 2026, that message expanded to the broader Newark Academy community. Campaign Chair Larry Cetrulo ’67 announced the campaign at the Alumni Awards Ceremony, while Kim Hirsh ’80 helped bring the campaign’s vision to the Women of NA Tea, inviting alumni and friends to consider the role they can play in shaping what comes next. Together, with Head of School Tom Ashburn’s leadership, these moments reflected a shared commitment across school leadership, alumni and current families to advancing Newark Academy’s long-term priorities.
Even before its public launch, Ad Lumen was already making a meaningful impact across campus. Campaign support has strengthened existing scholarship funds and established new ones, expanding access to a Newark Academy education. It has supported faculty through initiatives such as housing assistance programs, advanced sustainability efforts, and provided resources that help the school respond to emerging needs and opportunities. Together, these investments reflect a campaign designed not simply to meet today’s priorities, but to create lasting financial strength and flexibility for the future.
At its heart, Ad Lumen is about ensuring Newark Academy continues to evolve while remaining grounded in the values and experiences that have defined the school for generations. As the campaign enters its public phase, every member of the Newark Academy community has an opportunity to play a part of that future. Building on the extraordinary generosity that has already brought Ad Lumen to this date, the campaign now invites alumni, families, faculty, staff and friends to help illuminate the path forward for Newark Academy.
For more information about the campaign, please contact Dr. Rose McSween, Newark Academy’s Chief Advancement Officer at rmcsween@newarka.edu.