150 Years of Impact Through Philanthropy
As our 150-year anniversary approaches, we are thankful for the tradition of philanthropy that began in 1878, when Samuel Miller dedicated the majority of his estate to establishing Miller School of Albemarle. From its origin as a school where the underserved youth of rural Albemarle County could learn a trade, through years as an all-male military school, to today’s position as a top-tier coed day and boarding school, everything we are has been built on generosity. Our students have always relied on the support of a community that passionately believes in our mission.
Through every change, our school has exemplified the best qualities we strive to instill in our students—grit, individuality, independence, and resilience. People like you, and those profiled in this publication, continue a tradition of giving that has changed thousands of lives. That may sound dramatic, but your impact is dramatic. This is important, meaningful work. You change everything.
At Miller School of Albemarle, our mission is simple and enduring: to educate the whole person in mind, hands, and heart. Every day, I see that mission come to life in the classrooms, studios, fields, and trails across our campus.
Your support, through gifts, volunteerism, and engagement, made this past year one of meaningful growth for our students and our school.
Together, we carried forward traditions that connect generations of students on the Hill and introduced new experiences that deepen our mission to educate the whole person. From our sustainable farm and expanding experiential programs to the energy of our growing lower school at Seven Rivers, this year reflected both the strength of our history and the promise of our future.
Through your generosity, students experienced an education that extends well beyond the classroom. Philanthropy supported scholarships that make enrollment possible, hands-on learning opportunities across disciplines, and professional development for the teachers who guide and inspire our students each day. These collective efforts sustain what makes Miller unique: a community built on character, purpose, and care.
Looking ahead, we are focused on strengthening the foundation that will carry Miller into its next chapter. As we prepare for our 150th anniversary in 2028, we are investing in people, places and programs that keep our mission relevant and strong.
Each step moves us closer to ensuring that every student who comes to Miller has the opportunity to learn, grow, and lead with integrity.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your partnership ensures that Miller School of Albemarle remains a place where students are known, challenged, and supported to reach their full potential. We could not do this work without you — and together, we’re shaping Miller’s next 150 years.
Testimonials
“All the rest and residue of my estate…I give, bequeath, and devise to…the founding, establishment, and perpetual support of a School on the Manual Labor Principle, on the tract of Land in the County of Albemarle. ”
Ways to Give
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The Annual Fund supports the day-to-day work of our faculty and staff by bridging the gap between tuition revenue and actual operating costs. Occasionally, the Annual Fund may be used to raise funds for special projects that will greatly enhance the experience of all MSA students.
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The Bell Tower Society invites you to continue Samuel Miller’s legacy of generosity by supporting our community of students, faculty, alumni, and friends through membership in the annual giving club of Miller School of Albemarle. All Donors to the Bell Tower Society will be recognized in the annual Bell Tower publication and are invited to special events throughout the year.
Diamond Bell Tower Society: Gifts of $25,000 or more
Platinum Bell Tower Society: Gifts of $10,000-$24,999
Gold Bell Tower Society: Gifts of $5000-$9,999
Silver Bell Tower Society: Gifts of $1000-$4999
Bronze Bell Tower Society: Gifts of $250-$999
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The Sesquicentennial Society honors those donors who make a pledge to make a gift of $150 or more each year between 2023 through our Sesquicentennial in 2028. Donors of $150 or more will be recognized each year.
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TEAL Society (Graduates of the Last Decade)
Miller School of Albemarle introduces the TEAL Society, a giving society for our youngest alumni!
Alumni who attended in the past ten years and make an annual fund gift will be a member of the Teal Society. Our goal is to encourage every alumni to make a gift every year. Those young alumni who make a gift will be sent some special MSA gear.
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Planned Giving, whether through wills, trusts, or annuity payments, all with tax advantages, can be used by alumni, parents, and friends of the School to enhance their philanthropic options.
Your Gifts Support Everything
