An independent day school serving grades K-12 | St. Paul, MN

Harry M. Drake, 1925-2012: Giving for a Lifetime

Harry M. Drake, 1925-2012: Giving for a Lifetime

On July 3, 2012, the SPA community lost one of its most loyal friends and stalwart supporters.  Harry M. Drake ’44 was a generous benefactor, dedicated alumnus, and SPA’s long-time volunteer archivist and historian.   “Harry was such an integral part of SPA for so many years that it’s been difficult without him,” says Dorothy Goldie ’73, SPA’s Director of Institutional Advancement.  “There have been many times when we’ve wished we could have had his opinion or insight on any number of alumni/ae issues.”

Mr. Drake was a groundbreaking advertising executive, a noted photography collector, and a passionate supporter of education and the arts.  He was a tireless volunteer in many capacities for SPA and was particularly passionate about the school’s archives, library, and art collections.

Mr. Drake’s lifetime commitment to SPA did not end with his passing.  His estate included a $1 million gift to the school which contributed to the construction of the new Huss Center for Performing Arts—a gift which Goldie finds entirely in line with Mr. Drake’s character.  “Harry’s affection for SPA was only matched by his love of the arts,” Goldie says.  “The school is so grateful to Harry for this gift, but even more grateful that we will be able to put it to a use that he himself would have enjoyed so much in his lifetime.”

Like all estate gifts, the gift from the Drake estate is considered a part of the Torch and Lamp Society, SPA’s planned giving program for all donors who have made provisions in their wills for the school.  The Torch and Lamp Society recognizes those who, through thoughtful and generous estate planning, will light the way for the school’s future.  If you have included St. Paul Academy and Summit School in your planning and would like to be recognized as a member of the Torch and Lamp Society, or if you would like more information about making a planned gift, please contact Dorothy Goldie.