Transforming Lives Through Aid 

As the weather remains chill in the morning and the cherry blossoms bud and flower outside, the halls of Eastern Mennonite School are alive as well, the impact of financial aid is felt every day. For over two decades, Chris Eberly, EMS’s dedicated Business Office Manager, has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of financial support.

“Endowments, funded by gifts through wills and planned giving, truly make it possible for students to be here,” she remarks.

The spring season at EMS is a whirlwind of activity for Eberly, too, as she meticulously reviews financial aid needs and matches them with available resources.

Chris Eberly, Business Manager

“Financial aid is like assembling a complex puzzle,” she explains. “We receive recommendations based on need and then utilize endowment earnings, annual scholarships, and support from the Flames Fund to match resources with each family’s situation.”

“We may never see all the gifts we give students as they continue their journey beyond EMS, but their growth tells the story. I wish donors could see that, because their investment makes it possible.”

Every day, Eberly connects with students in the most ordinary of settings—whether during lunch duty or at the front door. “A simple ‘How are you doing today?’ can turn into a real conversation,” she says. “Over time, students begin to believe what we want them to know: you belong here, and you are seen.”

The numbers speak volumes: 106 EMS students currently receive financial aid, with endowments covering 5.2% of all tuition. This easing of financial pressure allows families to focus on their children’s education and growth.

Reflecting on the impact of generosity, Eberly notes, “What I see, every single day, is the difference that generosity makes. It’s in the student who arrives unsure and gradually finds confidence, belonging, and purpose.” She adds, “Even small things—like students consistently saying ‘thank you’ to the person washing dishes—speak volumes about the formation of character at EMS.”

The future of EMS students is bright, thanks to the foresight of donors who invest in endowments. “Much of what we’re able to offer students is made possible through endowed funds—gifts set aside with the future in mind,” Eberly explains. “These gifts continue to support students year after year, opening doors.”

A long-term perspective is essential in this work. “A gift is invested long-term, with about 5% of earnings each year supporting tuition assistance, programs, or the campus. One gift can impact students year after year,” she elaborates.

As Eberly looks to the future, she is filled with gratitude for those who choose to invest in EMS’s mission.

“Thank you for the role you’ve already played, and continue to play, in the life of EMS,” she says earnestly. “The impact of these transformational gifts is deeply felt within our learning community.”

The 1917 Circle, composed of individuals who have included EMS in their wills or other planned gifts, plays a vital role in sustaining the school’s mission. “While I don’t usually know who is a part of this circle, I do see the impact these gifts have,” Eberly acknowledges.

For more information on how endowments work and to become part of this life-changing initiative, visit easternmennonite.org/endowments.