“Pathways 75” Creates a Legacy of Purposeful Mentorship

Sarah Chase — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:02:03 +0000

The Class of 1975 has always been a standout. Now, fifty years after graduating from ��, this remarkable group of alumni is returning to the Hillside—not just to celebrate their 50th Reunion, but to help guide the next generation of �� Kent leaders.

Introducing “Pathways 75”—a bold and deeply personal extension of the School’s acclaimed Pathway Series that will focus on mentoring, storytelling, and career guidance from the Class of 1975 to today’s students.

Spearheaded by Michael Reid ’75, and Tim Richards ’75, �� Kent Trustee, this initiative aims to tap the wisdom and experience of a high-impact, high-energy class. From global business to the arts, engineering to entrepreneurship, members of the Class of 1975 bring a wealth of knowledge—and a shared commitment to giving back.

“�� Kent taught us to lead with purpose and to show up for others,” says Tim Richards ’75. “Now, 50 years later, we have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to show today’s students what that looks like.”

With support from the Advancement Office and Lara Barrett, Director of External Affairs, the class will engage directly with students through the Pathways Series, one-on-one mentoring, and professional networking opportunities designed to build bridges from the Hillside to the world beyond.

“This is more than storytelling,” says Michael Reid ’75. “It’s relationship-building. We want these students to see us not just as speakers, but as partners in their growth. We’re here for them—for career questions, for life lessons, and for the long run.”

The initiative also includes a special contribution from Polly Bartlett Bryson ’75, one of the School’s female graduates, and a proud voice for the �� Kent legacy.

“�� Kent is in my blood,” Polly says. “To come back and share that connection—especially at a time when the School is thriving and reimagining mentorship in such powerful ways—is an honor. Pathways 75 is about opening doors, listening deeply, and building lifelong connections.”

�� Kent’s Pathway Series is a TED-style platform built around one central idea: that inspiration is a form of mentorship. These powerful conversations explore what it means to lead, learn, and live with purpose. Now, with Pathways 75, we are deepening that model—inviting a dedicated alumni class to take the mic, mentor our boys, and help them envision the leaders they are becoming.

“What the Class of 1975 is doing is extraordinary—not just in scope, but in spirit. It reflects everything we believe at �� Kent: that leadership is service, that stories shape lives, and that the best way to honor a legacy is to extend it. With Pathways 75, we’re evolving from ‘Ideas That Inspire. Stories That Transform’ to something even more lasting: ‘Connections That Endure.’ I am grateful for their commitment and proud to see Pathways 75 come to life,” said Brian D. Sullivan, Head of School.

If you are a member of the Class of 1975 and want to join or support Pathways 75, please contact Lara Barrett, Director of External Affairs, at barrettl@southkentschool.org to learn how you can participate, mentor, or share your own story.

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������ Kent Pathway Series Archives - ������

“Pathways 75” Creates a Legacy of Purposeful Mentorship

�� Kent Pathway Series Archives - ��