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Founder's Day Tradition

The annual Founder’s Day Ceremony held on the morning of Friday, October 9 was a solemn occasion filled with meaningful reflection, song, and tradition. “The purpose of the annual gathering is twofold,” said Headmaster Charlie Britton. “First, we honor our founder, John McDonogh, whose generous bequest made it possible, in 1873, for McDonogh School to begin its mission of educating children. McDonogh’s one request was, ‘that it be permitted annually that the children be allowed to plant and water a few flowers around my grave,’” Britton explained.

“Secondly, on this solemn day, we pause to remember all of those who’ve gone before us, particularly those members of the McDonogh Family who have passed away during the past year.” As Alumni Association President Michelle Mayer ’91 read each name, a bell tolled in the tower of Tagart Memorial Chapel and a flower was placed at the foot of the monument. Learn more about the history of Founder’s Day here.