The Harold Brown Scholarship
The Harold Brown Scholarship
The Harold Brown Scholarship

The Harold Brown Scholarship

Honoring a Legacy of Mentorship and Excellence in K-12 Private-Independent School Advancement

Honoring a Legacy of Mentorship and Excellence in K-12 Private-Independent School Advancement

ISM established The Harold Brown Scholarship to honor the life and legacy of Harold Brown, a dedicated mentor, leader, and advocate for private-independent school advancement professionals.

Harold, a long-time faculty member of ISM’s Advancement Academy, was committed to educating, mentoring, and inspiring advancement professionals, helping them navigate the challenges of independent school fundraising with wisdom, generosity, and a deep belief in the power of relationships.

As Phil Higginson of ISM remarked, “Harold Brown was a dedicated leader in independent school advancement, deeply committed to his work and those around him. He had a true passion for mentoring and found great joy in the ISM Advancement Academy. With a rare gift for making others feel seen and valued, Harold had a way of celebrating everyone he met — leaving them with the sense that, in that moment, they were the most important person in the world.”

About Harold Brown

Harold passed away on January 14, 2025 at age 68, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and devotion.

Harold began his career in banking at Connecticut Bank and Trust. After 15 years in banking, Harold boldly changed careers and returned to Phillips Exeter Academy, his alma mater, as the Director of Alumni Affairs, where for the next 28 years, he dedicated himself to cultivating a vibrant global alumni community. Harold’s professional influence extended beyond Exeter. He served as the Director of Development at Salisbury School (CT) and later as the Director of Advancement at Cranbrook Schools (MI), from where he retired in 2024. Additionally, Harold contributed to the broader alumni and development community through his volunteering and consulting, including with ISM.

Harold Brown

 

Advancement Academy

Scholarship Purpose & Impact

Harold Brown was a pillar of the private-independent school advancement community, known for his deep generosity, guidance, and passion for helping others succeed.

Each year, the scholarship provides one full tuition for an advancement professional to attend the ISM Advancement Academy, ensuring Harold’s commitment to excellence, mentorship, and professional growth continues to impact the field and the next generation of independent school advancement leaders.

Advancement Professionals

Who are the Harold Brown Scholars?

The Harold Brown Scholars are private-independent school advancement professionals who:

  • Demonstrate a commitment to independent school advancement excellence in the areas of enrollment management, marketing/communications, and/or development.
  • Seek professional growth and mentorship in the field of advancement.
  • Benefit from financial support to attend the ISM Advancement Academy.