A Landmark Commitment & Strong Accreditation Review

Dear Friends,

I’m proud to share that our entry commons has been dedicated as the J. Bruce Llewellyn Commons, honoring a Harlem-born entrepreneur and philanthropist whose life so clearly reflects our School Creed. 

The son of Jamaican and Guyanese immigrants, Bruce Llewellyn believed education was the surest path forward and that character mattered above all. His story embodies the values we ask our students to practice every day: initiative, determination, compassion, and integrity. During recent community meetings, we reflected on his life and the example he set by lifting up those around him, and we highlighted his contributions on Renaissance Day, our Black History Month culminating event. 

The Llewellyn Family Foundation has chosen to honor Mr. Llewellyn’s legacy with a transformational gift to Harlem Academy, supporting scholarships today and strengthening our endowment for generations to come. 

In another important milestone, we welcomed a visiting committee for our five-year NYSAIS (New York State Association of Independent Schools) accreditation review. The committee included Virginia Connor (Head of School, St. Hilda’s & St. Hugh’s School), Hassan Jones (Head of Middle School, Collegiate School), and Sophie Poon (Director of Finance, Trinity School). 

After reviewing our self-study, they spent two days on-site observing programs, engaging with members of our team, and meeting with trustees – examining each aspect of the school through the lens of our mission. The committee will share a final report in the coming weeks, but they shared genuine appreciation for the progress we have made since 2021. It’s hard to believe that at our last accreditation visit five years ago, we were still operating out of rented storefronts and serving half as many students!

I hope you share my pride in these terrific accomplishments, and please know how grateful I am for all you do to keep us moving forward toward the strongest realization of our mission and vision.  

With thanks and best wishes,

Vinny