Rumsey Remembers Esteemed Former Trustee Gretchen Farmer P’99, ‘02
The Rumsey Hall community was saddened to hear of the passing of esteemed former Trustee Gretchen Farmer P’99, ‘02.
Gretchen was an integral part of and loyal friend to the Rumsey Hall community for many years. As a Rumsey Parent, of Austin ‘99 and Mallory ‘02, she championed the school and volunteered in service of numerous Rumsey events and initiatives. During her longstanding tenure on the Board of Trustees (1999-2004, 2005-2018, 2018-2019), she brought detailed insight, dedicated acumen and tireless reserves of energy to a number of roles across select groups, including the Capital Campaign, Audit, Investment, Long Range Planning, and Development Committees. She was deeply interested in sustainability matters, and advocated for their consideration within campus development planning. Her love of tennis inspired a generous donation to the construction and revitalization of the outdoor tennis courts, and in 2002 The Farmer Family Outdoor Tennis Courts on the Rumsey campus were dedicated.
In addition to her valuable contributions to Rumsey Hall, Gretchen was also extremely active in her local community of Washington, CT. She was a member of the Board of Trustees at The Frederick Gunn School, treasurer of the Washington Garden Club, and a member of the Washington Club Board of Governors.
“For over twenty years, Gretchen was a devoted Rumsey parent and Trustee, committed to serving in support of the best interests of the school,” said Brooke Giese P’23, ’27, Associate Head of School. “Gretchen generously shared her time, talent, and thoughtfulness with the school as the campus was transformed into a place for 21st century learning. During the campus master planning process, Gretchen kept environmental sustainability in center focus, supporting the thoughtful use of green technology wherever possible. Gretchen cared deeply for the long-term health and well-being of both the Rumsey Hall family and the global community. Gretchen's legacy lives on through the harmonious accord between campus facilities and the natural beauty of the Shepaug valley.”
"Gretchen embraced the importance of finding causes to love and devoted countless hours through volunteer work. In 1995 she immersed herself into the Rumsey community when her son Austin enrolled in the 6th grade and her daughter Mallory enrolled in the 3rd grade. She never looked back. She cared deeply about Rumsey and always surrounded herself with people who dedicated their time to bettering not only our School, but our community," said Jay Przygocki , P'00, '03, Rumsey Athletic Director. "Gretchen was a good friend to so many individuals within the Rumsey family. We will miss her kindness, her passion, and her dedication to helping others with her quiet but meaningful contributions and positive support."
Gretchen is survived by her husband Phil, children and grand-daughter.