Philanthropy is vital to the success of Miss Porter’s School, its faculty, staff and students. On October 21, 2023, we had the opportunity to recognize the profound impact that philanthropy has made on our school by honoring the incredible generosity of the Greene family by formally naming the grist mill our Office of Admission, Greene House.
In 2012, Jeanie McBride Greene ’51, P’81, GP’12,14, and her late husband and former Trustee John K. Greene P’81, GP’12,14, made a gift that allowed Miss Porter’s School to purchase 44 Mill Lane. The Grist Mill Restaurant, which had long operated at 44 Mill Lane, had closed, providing MPS with a unique opportunity to acquire this building. When the donation was made, the Greenes wanted the building used in a way that was best for school. It quickly became clear the space should become a meaningful part of each student’s experience. It was determined that it would become the new Office of Admission – the place where each student begins their journey at MPS.
The Greene family has a deep legacy here at MPS. Mrs. Greene, her daughter Valerie Flynn ‘81 and granddaughters Casey Bennett ‘12 and Heather Flynn ‘14 are all Ancients. Mrs. Greene is a sculptor and her work can be found around campus today, including the mink, possum and squirrel sculptures on The Class of 1935 Patio behind the Dr. Glenda Newell-Harris ’71 Student Center. Additionally, as you walk down the steps leading to the Dance Barn, on your right, you will notice a sculpture of a penguin. During the naming ceremony this past weekend, Mrs. Greene’s family donated one of her art pieces, which will remain in the Office of Admission.
As you direct guests to the Office of Admission, hold events in the space, or refer to the building in conversation, please refer to the building as Greene House. Change like this takes time, and each of us can do our part to ensure we are recognizing the impact the Greene family has had on Miss Porter’s School.
Please join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and check out the videos below of the celebration from Saturday, October 21, 2023.