For Debbie Roach Avery '71 and Tom Avery '71, Lovett's influence spans generations. Though the School looked different when they were students in the late 1960s and early 1970s, they believe its core principles remain unchanged. Debbie transferred to Lovett in the eighth grade from public school and immediately felt the difference. "The young, eager, committed teachers were different," she recalls. "They cared about the individual student and recognized potential and interests, rather than pressing students into a cookie-cutter education." That personal attention proved transformative, particularly when faculty members such as Kathy Andreg McLean recognized her learning challenges and devoted their own time to helping her succeed-along with educators like Carmelita Monteith, Anne Brandau Fuentes, and Janice Goodfellow Carter, whose impact endures to this day.

The Averys' commitment to Lovett is rooted in gratitude and a belief in paying forward the opportunities they received. Both benefited from the generosity of others who made their Lovett educations possible, and they see planned giving as a natural extension of that legacy. "Someone paid ahead to enable us to go to Lovett," Tom explains, "and it's only fair and right to return the favor for future Lions." Lovett has remained central to their family, as all three of their children attended the School. The Averys look ahead with hope that future generations-including their grandchildren-will have the chance to share that same experience.

At the heart of their estate commitment is a desire to preserve access and honor exceptional teaching. The Averys believe a Lovett education should be available to families of varied means, not limited to those with significant financial resources. They are especially motivated to recognize the lasting influence of extraordinary educators like Anne Brandau Fuentes, who taught far beyond the curriculum and became a mentor and role model to her students. Through their bequest to the Anne Brandau Financial Aid Fund, Debbie and Tom hope to ensure that future Lions are given the same opportunity they once received.