Hakiem Coles ’07: Raising Funds for Shipley’s Black Students and Teachers
Jared Scott Tesler
When he was 12 years old, Hakiem Coles ’07 would wake up at five o’clock in the morning to embark on an hour-and-a-half-long commute, by train and bus, to Shipley. His belief in the power of education to positively impact not only his life but also the lives of other Black students would prompt his return to Shipley’s campus more than a decade later, as a member of the Black Alumni Association Governing Body.
Throughout the past year, together with fellow alumnus Amiyr Jackson ’11 and Director of Development Josie Burri, Coles has worked to establish a named endowed fund, the Black Alumni Association Fund, to support the curricular and cultural needs of Shipley’s Black students and teachers, including activities and programs that provide the entire School community with an African-American experience integral to its shared American experience. Experiences the Fund could support include annual field trips to museums, memorials, and African countries; an African-American diaspora speaker series; and a consultant specially trained in anti-racist mental health practices.
“We can’t do this alone. We’re only going to be able to raise funds with the support of like-minded people who are in favor of creating meaningful change,” Coles says. “The Black Alumni Association Fund is designed to supplement Shipley’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, enriching the culture of its already diverse campus.”
Coles, who went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Pittsburgh, currently serves as Pennco Tech Trade School’s youngest and only Black administrator. As Director of Education, he manages upwards of 400 students and 30 instructors. He would never have had the opportunity to attend Shipley in the first place, he notes, had it not been for the Steppingstone Foundation, which prepares motivated urban schoolchildren for acceptance and success at the top college-preparatory schools in the Philadelphia area.
“I formed a lot of positive relationships with students and teachers at Shipley, and even landed my current job thanks to one of those relationships,” Coles says. “Shipley was life-changing for me. It opened up my world.”
Alumni from the Classes of 1960, 1975, 1990, 2005, and 2020 share their Shipley stories—highlighting the traditions, teachers, and experiences that shaped who they are today.
Shipley’s Middle School history classrooms are alive with creativity, immersive projects, and hands-on learning. From muckraking magazines to trench art, students don’t just study history—they experience it, making meaningful connections to the past and present.
When the Flannellys relocated to Philadelphia, they sought a school where all four of their sons could thrive. Shipley stood out—not just for academics and activities, but for the deep, personal support that would shape their confidence and growth.
Kristina "Tammy" Rosqueta Kelly ’90 reflects on the Shipley teachers, friendships, and experiences that gave her confidence and shaped her worldview. Now a Shipley parent, she celebrates the traditions that connect her family across generations and the values that continue to endure.
Dan Blank ’05 reflects on his Shipley experience—immersive classes, unforgettable Shakespeare performances, and a deep commitment to service. From “Dan the Fan” to educator, he carries forward the values and passions sparked during his time at Shipley.
Declan Buckley ’20 reflects on the rigorous academics, supportive teachers, and wide-ranging opportunities that shaped his Shipley experience. From student government to the school musical, he embraced it all—building the confidence and curiosity he carries with him today.
In Gator Congregation Storytellers and Middle School’s 5 Minutes of Wisdom, students and faculty share personal, heartfelt stories—moments of growth, courage, and connection. These programs foster empathy, trust, and belonging, strengthening the relationships that make Shipley’s community so special.
The Shipley School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian L. Craig as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2025. Mr. Craig brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in independent schools and a strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and program innovation.
Over the past five years, Shipley’s Cross Country program has surged forward, blending competitive success with a vibrant culture of personal growth and team spirit. This rise has been powered by an engaged community of runners, dedicated coaches, and a program spanning Lower, Middle, and Upper School.
Lower School students brought democracy to life through a spirited election, where Black Panther won the presidency of Alphagator Island after weeks of campaigning and civic engagement.
Geoff Flint ’90 reflects on Shipley’s lasting impact—from standout teachers and spirited traditions to global experiences and lifelong friendships. As he returns for his 35th Reunion, he recalls how Shipley prepared him for college, career, and a meaningful life.
From West Virginia to Shipley, Nancy Herkness Theodorou ’75 found joy in learning, lifelong friendships, and the freedom to explore her passions. She reflects on inspiring teachers, life as a boarder, and how Shipley shaped her path to Princeton and beyond.
From her earliest days in Shipley’s four-year-old nursery class to celebrating her 65th Reunion, Nancy Johnson Campbell ’60 reflects on inspiring teachers, lifelong lessons, and the School’s evolution—while cherishing the enduring Shipley spirit that has thrived through the decades.
For over 20 years, Shipley’s partnership with alumna Paige West ’86 and the West Collection has brought world-class contemporary art to the Speer Gallery, inspiring students to think boldly and engage with real-world ideas.
Shipley’s Speer Gallery, led by art teacher Julia Staples, is a vibrant hub for learning and connection, showcasing thought-provoking exhibits that spark conversation and inspire collaboration across subjects like History, Science, and English.
Read about the life and legacy of Nancy Lauber, Shipley’s Head of School from 1972 to 1979, who led the school through its transition to coeducation and made lasting contributions to academic innovation and campus expansion.
Read about how Shipley changed life for Sissy ffolliott ’70 and why she supports the Centennial Society—ensuring future generations receive the same transformative education and encouragement she experienced over 55 years ago.
Shipley’s dynamic history curriculum challenges students to think critically, engage deeply with diverse perspectives, and connect the past to today’s world. Explore how innovative electives and passionate educators bring history to life in 11th and 12th grade classrooms.
The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.