Class of 2004

On the occasion of our 20th Reunion, we are pleased to announce the creation of The Class of 2004 Memorial Scholarship Endowed Fund in memory of our four departed classmates: Lynn Gordon “Gordie” Bailey Jr., Charles “Charlie” Denihan, Christopher “Chris” Diozzi, and Michael “Mike” “Bubbs” Walsh IV.

This fund will help Deerfield continue to attract and support promising young people from across the nation and around the world so they may engage in the full Deerfield Experience we remember so well—including scholarship, sportsmanship, leadership, and community service.

While a Deerfield education is priceless, annual tuition of over $74,000 is a significant challenge for many families. By establishing this fund, our class will create a permanent legacy of support for our alma mater. Already, we surpassed our stage-one goal of raising $500,000 by our 20th Reunion—an accomplishment that no other 20th Reunion class at Deerfield has ever achieved!

Ultimately, our goal is to raise $1.8 million for our permanent endowed fund. Each year, the annual income distribution from the endowment supports the school’s operating budget. At this higher value for the class fund, the annual income will approximate the level of financial aid granted to cover one student's full tuition. With future gifts and investment growth over time, our fund will continue to grow and support Deerfield students in perpetuity while serving as an enduring tribute to our classmates who left us too soon.

Currently, 30% of us, on average, give back to Deerfield each year. We are hopeful that the class fund in memory of Gordie, Charlie, Chris, and Mike will inspire each of us to increase our giving, no matter how large or small.

You can choose to make a one-time gift—or, like many of us—pledge over multiple years (for example: $25,000 could be paid in $5,000 installments over the next five years, $10,000 could be paid in $2,000 installments over the next five years, and so on). You can make your gift on this campaign website or visit deerfield.edu/04fund for details, photos, and more. If you’d like further information on how to make a gift or multi-year pledge, please email klaurenitis@deerfield.edu.

Thank you for considering this special request. We are so appreciative of your support.

Our very best,

Walker Dimmig, Nick Hammerschlag, Barkley Hickox, Kate Jowaisas, Thad Olchowski, Dan Phan, Brooks Scholl, and Cricket Whitton
Class of 2004 | 20^th Reunion Committee