Laurel School strives to ensure alumnae create a greater impact for future generations
Many are aware of alumnae networking because it is anticipated, but taking a deeper look into this narrative helps allow for further comprehension regarding the longevity of an alumna. Private all-girls school in Ohio.
A close-knit, diverse, and family-oriented school with 500 students from Pre-K to 12th grade, Laurel School provides access to resources and opportunities, but no one really discusses how calculated this process is, nor how it became what it is today. Laurel girls wear typical plaid uniforms in the school colors which are green and white. On the first day of school, the beautiful Shaker neighborhood where Laurel is nestled is lined with cars, families in green and white, as well as staff welcoming the girls back to school. It seems pretty typical for a private girls’ school in suburban Shaker Heights, Ohio. Nothing could be further from the truth. Laurel is not a standard girls school and her method of alumnae engagement is far above and beyond the norm.
It is evident that with the competitive environment and state of education, selecting secondary schools for children may become even more important than selecting their college or university. The reason the choice may be critical could be the deep commitment of alumnae to ensure students succeed by providing networking and support. Initial interviews with current students revealed an overwhelming sense of intellectual stimulation, expectation of excellence, and sometimes hearty discourse when necessary. They also beamed with pride when discussing their school being steeped in traditions like the “blazer” or “Laurel ring.” Laurel girls feel and are supported by alumnae through a culture wherein sisterhood and camaraderie are encouraged.
Julie Donahue, Director of Alumnae and Community Engagement and Class of ‘79, has a deep connection to the Laurel culture and environment. As a witness to the commitment alumnae feel to lifelong engagement with Laurel, she reflects fondly on the connection she felt with other girls in the sisterhood. She spoke lovingly about her commitment to Laurel and how many alums are drawn back due to this shared love for Laurel.
She wrote, “Our alumnae community is incredibly loyal and supportive of Laurel. The percentage of alumnae who donate to the Laurel fund is much higher than the national average for girls schools. But our alumnae support goes beyond financial donations. They mentor students through Protege and Capstone; they attend events to stay connected with the School; they promote the school by sharing social media posts; they volunteer on behalf of the school: currently, 16 of the 28 members of the Board of Trustees (57%) are alums.” The Laurel Alumnae Association thrives on the power of networking, professionalism, and social connections. Networking events are common, anticipated, and well attended.
Dr. Meredith Reimer, Laurel Class of ’95 and President of Laurel’s Alumnae Association, also provided a wonderfully vivid depiction of a sisterhood that started in lower school and continues to this day. She was drawn to the tight-knit environment with smaller class sizes and the warm, welcoming community during her time at Laurel. This ultimately drew her to become involved with the Alumnae Association when moving back to Cleveland.
Alumnae involvement is very well orchestrated, with different events scheduled that allow alumnae to have an active role in the current school community. It is important for alumnae to continuously help shape the school’s culture, which ultimately preserves the school’s identity. Alumnae Weekends allow school alums to connect with those returning to visit their alma mater. The Mentorship Programs helps students make career selections, shadowing, and in some cases leads to employment opportunities. The Laurel Alumnae Association is very intentional about the inclusivity, which is evident in the notable song content that takes place the day after the Winter Concert. This is a big draw and many return annually during the holidays to witness the upper school grades parody songs about their experiences. Events like these are very appealing and often serve as a mini reunion with Alumna wearing the familiar green and white!
Lastly, one of the most impressive parts of Laurel is its extensive legacy that can be found in the regular, day-to-day aspects of the school. Many alumnae serve as staff members, and families often have multiple children enrolled at a time.
It appears that the intentional incorporation of Laurel Alumnae into all things “Laurel” has proven to be very beneficial. Purposeful inclusion and incorporation of Laurel’s graduates seems to work like a charm and continues to produce exceptional graduates.
The Laurel School is ranked by Niche as number 1 in “Best All-Girls High Schools in Ohio.”
This article was written for the Yale Daily News’ 2025 Summer Journalism Program for high school students.