Jackie Pitts '55

In Memory of Jackie Pitts '55

Jackie's influence on our community cannot be overstated. She was an alumnus, teacher, coach, mentor, friend, and decades-long donor to Sanford.

As a member of the School's planned gift group, the Evergreen Society, Jackie continues to give back to the School in death as she did in life.

Continuing to Honor Jackie Pitts '55 at Sanford School

Jackie Pitts '55 profoundly influenced the school's culture through decades of dedication to students and alumni. Sanford will honor her legacy in the following ways.

Each year at Commencement, the Alumni Award is given to the senior whose participation in extracurricular activities has been most dedicated. We know these are the students who live our motto, "No Talent Lies Latent." This award will now be known as the Jackie Pitts '55 Alumni Award.

This summer, we completed the first phase of renovating the Nancy Sawin Math/Science Center. Kevin Needham and the Buildings and Grounds team worked tirelessly to transform the spaces into bright, modern labs and classrooms. The second floor of the building—where all math classes are held—will be named the Jackie Pitts ‘55 Mathematics Floor in honor of her decades-long commitment to teaching.

Finally, we are excited to announce a new endowed award - the Jackie Pitts '55 Sanford Champion Award, which will be given annually to faculty or staff members who embody Jackie’s love for the Sanford community. This person will be a team player, a force for good, and a true Sanford Warrior. Each year at our school’s closing faculty and staff meeting, a recipient will be chosen and receive a monetary gift in Jackie’s memory.

We look forward to the community coming together to raise the funds for this $50,000 endowed gift. We know Jackie would be proud to know her love of Sanford will live perpetually through the generosity of those who loved her.

1 / 9

Donation Form for gifts in memory of Jackie Pitts '55

Saturday, August 31, 2024

Dear Sanford Community,

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Jacquelin “Jackie” Pitts ‘55, a beloved teacher, coach, alumnus, and indispensable member of Sanford School. Jackie’s influence on our community has been profound.

Born August 18, 1937, Jackie first came to Sanford in the summer of 1943 for summer camp. She returned to Sunny Hills in 1952 as an upper school student and quickly immersed herself in all aspects of the school. She began her unmatched teaching tenure in 1959, where she served many roles over fifty-five years, including athletic director, dorm parent, dean of girls, coach, mathematics chair, and alumni relations coordinator.

Jackie’s - or Ms. Pitts as students knew her - dedication to teaching was unmatched. Fondly referring to her students as “tigers” she prioritized building strong relationships that lasted years after graduation. She was a constant fixture at athletic games and performances - always supporting her students as they explored their talents. As a math teacher, she aimed to help all students succeed and take the fear out of a challenging subject while always insisting on appropriate grammar, manners, and respect.

Another passion of Jackie’s was lacrosse. An exceptional player and coach, she represented her country on the US Lacrosse Team for many years, served as President of the US Lacrosse Association and the International Lacrosse Association, and was inducted into numerous Halls of Fame. She was integral in bringing her beloved sport to other parts of the world, including Japan and Cuba.

We will share details for Jackie’s Celebration of Life as they become available. We welcome alumni and Sanford community members to share their memories and stories of Jackie with our alumni office - alumni@sanfordschool.org. Sanford will continue to honor Jackie and share her story throughout the year. Her impact on our community cannot be overstated.

We look forward to reading and sharing your messages with Jackie’s loved ones. Rest assured, her legacy will continue to live on our campus and in the generations of Sanford students, faculty, staff, and families she loved.

Warmly,

Mark J. Anderson

Head of School

Donations In Memory of Jackie Pitts '55

Caron Anderson-Kotschessa '69
Nicol and Mark Anderson
Susan and Paul Arruda

Lucy Benson '13

Frances and Peter Buttenheim

Nelia Cagle Cheney '67

Steven Daiber '73

Sue and André Dagenais

Josiah Hannon '11

Stacey Hendrix
Mary Ann Hitchens