Here at Miss Porter’s, we know better than anyone how special Mary Burch (Tracy) Ford was to boarding schools across the globe and especially here in Farmington. Burch Ford served as the first full-time counselor at Groton School, the dean of students at Milton Academy, and for 15 years, the head of school here at Porter’s, where she was especially treasured and where our beautiful library bears her name. Hers was a life of service, including leadership on the boards of various educational institutions. Burch Ford passed away in 2019, and The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) is delighted to honor her legacy with this annual award.
We are thrilled to announce that the Chief Enrollment and Student Affairs Officer at Miss Porter’s School, Liz Schmitt, has been honored with the highly prestigious Burch Ford Kaleidoscope Award for Excellence in Residential Life presented by TABS. Named in honor of the esteemed Burch Ford, this award celebrates excellence, creativity, and leadership in residential life, making Liz’s achievement all the more significant.
“Burch Ford secured a rock star twenty years ago when she hired Liz Schmitt as Miss Porter’s Director of College Counseling. What truly sets Liz Schmitt apart is her dedication to making student-centered decisions. In every aspect of her leadership roles (and she has held many at Miss Porter’s), she prioritizes the best interests of students, even when faced with difficult choices. She listens attentively to student feedback, solicits stakeholder input, and works collaboratively to develop solutions prioritizing student success and well-being.”
Excerpt from nomination
Liz Schmitt, a beloved member of our community, has not just exemplified leadership and dedication but has left an indelible mark throughout her career. Her unwavering commitment to student-centered decisions has shaped the academic and personal growth of students and also pioneered key programs that are cornerstones of the Miss Porter’s experience. From the Porter’s LEADS program to the Sarah Porter Leadership Institute, Liz’s influence extends across every aspect of life at Miss Porter’s, making us all proud and inspired by her achievements.
“Liz is nationally recognized as a leader in enrollment management, a member of several regional and national boards, and, 2016, was named one of Greater Hartford’s 40 Under 40 young professionals by the Hartford Business Journal.”
Excerpt from nomination
This TABS Burch Ford Kaleidoscope Award is a prestigious recognition that celebrates excellence, creativity, and leadership in residential life. Liz’s receiving this award is a testament to her professional excellence and outstanding contributions and is a significant moment in her career. She will be officially recognized at the TABS Annual Conference this October in Washington, D.C., where she will receive a custom glass kaleidoscope crafted by British artist Marc Tickle.
“To know Liz Schmitt is to know a boarding school leader who understands that living and learning amid a community of adolescents is simultaneously one of the most awesome responsibilities an educator can undertake and one of the most awesome privileges an educator can experience. With great enthusiasm and tremendous respect, I nominate Liz for the Burch Ford Kaleidoscope Award and I can not think of a more deserving recipient.”
Excerpt from nomination
Please join us in congratulating Liz on this well-deserved recognition for her remarkable 20-year career at Miss Porter’s School and contribution to the broader boarding school community. We are deeply grateful for Liz’s dedication and leadership, and we look forward to celebrating her achievement.
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