February 4, 2026

St. Bernard’s School is honored and deeply grateful to announce a historic $1.3 million gift from alumnus, Daniel Kilpeck, St. Bernard’s School Class of 1953, a contribution that will significantly impact the school’s facilities, student experience, and long-term sustainability.

“This remarkable gift speaks to the enduring impact St. Bernard’s School has on the lives of its students,” said Andrea Kilbourne-Hill, Principal. “Mr. Kilpeck shared how meaningful his own experience at St. Bernard’s was and how that foundation shaped him throughout his life. He was passionate about ensuring students could see and feel the impact of his generosity. Because of that, we are intentionally investing in what our students cherish most—their teachers and their time at recess—so this gift strengthens our school today while also ensuring future generations benefit from a vibrant, supportive learning environment.”

The gift will be allocated across three key areas:
IMMEDIATE NEEDS & FACILITY UPGRADES
A portion of the gift will address critical infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to the school boilers, plumbing systems, and the main office entranceway. These improvements will begin immediately and support long-term sustainability and create a more pleasant, welcoming environment for students, staff, and visitors.

STUDENT LIFE IMPACT: PLAYGROUND IMPROVEMENTS
Improving the daily student experience was a top priority for Mr. Kilpeck. In response, funds will be dedicated to meaningful playground upgrades designed to enrich recess, promote physical activity, and foster joyful community-building among students. St. Bernard’s School anticipates sharing preliminary playground improvement plans later this spring.

ESTABLISH 1922 ENDOWMENT FUND
Mr. Kilpeck’s gift also serves as the founding contribution to the newly established St. Bernard’s School 1922 Endowment Fund, named in honor of the school’s founding year.

The fund will be professionally managed by the former Long Run Wealth team at Mercer Global Advisors, Inc. and structured to ensure both flexibility and long-term growth.
• A small portion will be maintained in an income fund to support emergency and immediate needs.

• The majority will be invested in a growth-focused endowment designed to strengthen the school’s financial sustainability over time.

Annual income generated from the 1922 Endowment Fund will be used to:
• Improve staff compensation
• Support ongoing student life enhancements

These priorities directly reflect Mr. Kilpeck’s vision and commitment to both the educators who serve students and the overall experience of children at St. Bernard’s School.

An Invitation to Alumni and Friends
Inspired by this foundational gift, St. Bernard’s School warmly invites other alumni, families, and community members to contribute to the 1922 Endowment Fund, helping to build a legacy of generosity and opportunity that will benefit students for decades to come.

“This is more than a donation,” Dane DeGrace, St. Bernard’s Education Council President added. “It is an investment in children, in educators, and in the future of St. Bernard’s School. We hope this moment inspires our broader alumni community to join us in growing the 1922 Fund.”

For more information about the 1922 Endowment Fund or to learn how to contribute, please contact Andrea Kilbourne-Hill, 518-891-2830, or visit www.stbernardsschool.org.