Through the remarkable leadership of the Class of 1974 and additional South Kent donors, every dollar awarded unlocked a 2:1 match. Now, with $428,000 already raised, the Class of 1974 has set a powerful standard of commitment to this program’s success.

Rooted in South Kent’s Trinity of Values, Simplicity of Life, Self-Reliance, and Directness of Purpose, Cardinal Strong is designed to equip students with the emotional intelligence, coping strategies, and leadership skills necessary to navigate the increasing pressures of modern adolescence. As outlined in the School’s grant proposal, the program provides structured emotional resilience education for students in grades 9–12, alongside faculty training, media literacy instruction, alternative wellness experiences, and expanded access to counseling support.

“At South Kent, we believe resilience is not incidental. It must be taught, modeled, and practiced,” said Brian D. Sullivan, Head of School. “The Edward E. Ford Foundation’s investment affirms that preparing young men for life requires more than academic rigor. It requires intentional formation through emotional literacy, healthy masculinity, and the courage to seek help when needed. We are profoundly grateful to the Class of 1974 and our alumni community for stepping forward to ensure this work moves forward at full strength.”

With this funding, Cardinal Strong will expand key partnerships with organizations that provide structured programming in emotional resilience, stress management, and leadership development. The grant will also support media literacy training to help students navigate digital stress and misinformation, faculty professional development in mental health awareness, guest speakers and workshops, and access to consulting clinical neuropsychological support for students who may otherwise lack resources.

The initiative aligns directly with South Kent’s core competency framework, particularly its emphasis on Emotional Resilience, defined by the School as the ability to manage adversity, regulate emotions, and maintain a positive and disciplined outlook in the face of challenges.

The Edward E. Ford Foundation, long recognized for strengthening independent schools nationwide, selected Cardinal Strong as a program that advances student well-being in a proactive and sustainable manner. South Kent plans to deploy the funds over the next four years to build infrastructure, provide professional development, refine assessment tools, and position Cardinal Strong for long-term endowment support.

Beyond establishing the endowed fund for Cardinal Strong, this initiative will equip every South Kent student with structured resilience training, expand alternative wellness programming, integrate digital literacy into the curriculum, and ensure that no student is denied access to counseling resources because of financial constraints.
“The Class of 1974 understood immediately that this is not simply a program, it is a true commitment to the formation of young men,” Sullivan added. “Their leadership inspired others to join them. Cardinal Strong is a community-wide investment in character, health, and purpose.”

As South Kent enters its second century, Cardinal Strong reflects the School’s enduring mission: to prepare young men to succeed in college and thrive as thoughtful, engaged citizens in an increasingly complex world.

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The featured article offers a closer look at what defines the ����ɫ���� experience. From exceptional academic and athletic offerings to a deep commitment to character development and sustainability, it paints a vivid picture of the values and vision that set the Hillside apart.

“We place our students at the center of everything we do, preparing them not just for college, but for the next 40, 60 years of their lives. When young people are grounded in who they are and learn to adapt in the face of challenges, they gain the confidence and resilience to move forward.” – Head of School, Brian Sullivan.

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The feature article, , provides an in-depth look at what makes ����ɫ���� a standout institution. From our world-class academic and athletic programs to our emphasis on character development and sustainability, this story captures the essence of what sets South Kent apart.

Head of School Brian Sullivan shared his pride in this recognition, saying, “Being named a ‘Must Watch Boarding School’ is a testament to the incredible efforts of our Hillside community, and students. This acknowledgment reaffirms our mission to develop thoughtful, resilient, and self-reliant young men who will go on to make a meaningful impact in the world.”

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