Women’s Leadership Circle

the Women of Deerfield
are shaping what comes next

Women have always helped to define the strength, spirit, and future of the Academy. Today—on campus and off—Deerfield alumnae represent a powerful and growing network of leaders, professionals, mentors, and volunteers. This initiative invites alumnae to come together through philanthropy and connection in support of the West Campus Dorm project.

This is an opportunity to honor the women who helped shape Deerfield’s coeducational story, strengthen the experience of today’s students, and ensure that women are fully represented in Deerfield’s future.

"For more than two and a quarter centuries, each generation of Deerfield students, faculty, families, and alumni has inherited something precious—and then been asked to strengthen it for the generation that follows. That responsibility now belongs to us."

—Leila Govi '93 P'26,'28

Our Purpose

Our Women’s Leadership Circle brings alumnae together to build community, expand leadership giving, and support the campaign priorities that will shape Deerfield for generations.

Through this initiative, Deerfield women are invited to make a meaningful campaign commitment, connect with one another through regional and campus gatherings, and help create new opportunities for students and alumnae alike.

Why Now

It has been nearly 40 years since the Academy’s return to coeducation. The trailblazing women who shaped that era are now established leaders in their fields, their communities, and their philanthropic lives. Yet women remain underrepresented among Deerfield’s leadership donors. The Women’s Leadership Circle is designed to change that by making leadership philanthropy more visible, more accessible, and more connected to the alumnae community.

Our Goal

By 2030, Deerfield seeks to engage 100 founding members of The Women’s Leadership Circle and raise $5 million in support of Be Worthy: A Campaign for Deerfield.

Founding members will make a leadership campaign commitment of $50,000 or more, payable over up to five years. Employer matching gifts may count toward the total commitment. Together, these gifts will demonstrate the collective power of Deerfield women and create lasting impact across the Academy.

Giving Opportunities

Women’s Leadership Circle gifts will support campaign priorities that speak directly to the student experience and Deerfield’s future.

One especially meaningful opportunity is connected to the new West Campus Dorm, a girls’ dormitory adjacent to Barton. Construction began in April 2026, marking an important investment in residential life and the experience of all Deerfield students.

This will be the first new girls’ dorm since 2002, and is the first time we’re asking alumnae to support construction of a dorm for girls.

The first floor common room will be named in honor of Deerfield’s “First Girls” and all of the women who came after them—a permanent tribute to the courage, leadership, and lasting influence of Deerfield women.

Additional giving opportunities include financial aid, faculty support, the Deerfield Fund, and other Be Worthy campaign priorities.

I love the dorm life that we have at Deerfield. Some of the closest friendships I have made have been with people in my dorm and I'm so glad that I had the chance to be a part of this family. I love our late-night study sessions and our after-curfew weekend talks with my hall mates. I couldn't have asked for better people to start off my Deerfield experience.

—Selin ’27

Be a Leader: Women’s Leadership Circle Member Benefits

Participate in exclusive Women’s Leadership Circle gatherings, campaign leadership events, and alumnae networking opportunities.
Help strengthen local alumnae communities in your area by supporting or hosting regional gatherings focused on connection, mentorship, and career networking.
Take part in annual leadership donor recognition opportunities alongside alumni, parents, and friends of the Academy.

Together, the women’s Leadership Circle will celebrate the contributions of alumnae, deepen connections across generations, and help shape what comes next for Deerfield.

This is your invitation

The Women’s Leadership Circle is more than a giving opportunity. It is a way to bring Deerfield women together across generations and geographies.

Through regional events, alumnae career networking, volunteer leadership, and philanthropic participation, this initiative will create new points of connection for women who care deeply about Deerfield and its future.

When Deerfield women lead together, the entire community benefits.

We invite you to become a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Circle and help shape the Academy’s next chapter of alumnae leadership. 

To learn more about making a campaign commitment, hosting a gathering, or connecting with other Deerfield alumnae, please contact one of the Office of Advancement team members listed below.