The Cahn Scholars Fund
The Cahn Scholars Program was established through gifts from many donors to recognize Hillary and Charlie Cahn's historic impact on Suffield and further strengthen the school's commitment to financial aid. The goal is to permanently carry forward the Cahn family's emphasis on kindness, respect, leadership, and effort by providing financial assistance to a group of students demonstrating these values and clear academic accomplishment.
The Cahn Scholars Program provides multiple forms of financial assistance including need-based financial aid, merit-based financial aid, and the possibility of additional support as needed during a students' time at Suffield Academy. All applicants to Suffield Academy are automatically considered for the Cahn Scholars Program; no separate application is necessary.
The spring of 2024 marked a significant milestone as the first cohort of Cahn Scholars proudly graduated – embodying the values of perseverance, academic excellence, and immense community spirit. Darian Thomson ’24 noted “Being a Cahn Scholar instilled confidence in me to prosper academically at Suffield and in my next chapter as a student-athlete. It was an honor to receive the scholarship, and I will always keep in mind the Suffield motto “Esse Quam Videri.”
“Suffield Academy has a crystal-clear sense of purpose. We are dedicated to helping each student succeed and focused on the distance they travel during their years here. Suffield combines challenging academics and high standards with an encouraging, supportive faculty and positive spirit. This atmosphere has helped the school reach new heights.”
[Head of School Charlie Cahn P’18, ’22]
Hillary and Charlie have made Suffield Academy “home” for thousands of students from around the country and the world. After being born and raised on campus, Hillary returned as a faculty member in 1996. Charlie joined the community as an English teacher and lacrosse coach and later led the admission office and served as dean of faculty before becoming head in 2004. Suffield is where Hillary and Charlie met, married, and raised their two children, Peyton ’18 and Harrison ’22. For three decades they have shaped and sustained a distinct culture led by unwavering core values.
The legacy of Hillary and Charlie Cahn, enriched by this landmark initiative, continues to inspire and empower new generations of students, ensuring that Suffield Academy remains a beacon of opportunity and excellence.
"Suffield is special to me for many reasons and most importantly because it has been home. I never intended to return after I graduated but fortunately I did. We have loved being part of Suffield's success story over the past 25 years. It has been a wonderful place for Peyton and Harrison, and an amazing experience helping raise the thousands of students we have worked with on campus.
[Hillary Rockwell Cahn ’88, P’18, ’22]
"Creating the Cahn Scholars Fund was not only a way to honor the incredible work of Charlie and Hillary Cahn but also to invest in the future of Suffield Academy. I have seen firsthand the profound impact this school can have through my daughter Briell's experience. Suffield provided her with an unparalleled social, emotional, athletic, and academic education. This fund ensures that deserving students can benefit from the same transformative experience, now and for generations to come."
[Hope Smith P’12, Trustee]
"Supporting the Cahn Scholars Fund at Suffield Academy is not just about providing financial aid; it's about opening doors for deserving students to thrive in an environment that nurtures their potential. The endowment ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to benefit from the exceptional education and community that Suffield offers. I'm continually inspired by the leadership of Charlie and Hillary Cahn, whose dedication and vision have profoundly impacted the school and its students. Their commitment to excellence and inclusivity is truly remarkable."
[Suzy Vogler P '11, Trustee]