Brooklyn Friends School

BFS is excited to announce that the new issue of “The Light” magazine is now out. This issue focuses on many of our alumni. On the cover, for example, is Donald Ruff ’91—who emerged from what he calls one of the “most notorious housing projects” in the country—and now, thanks to his time at BFS, has helped more than 40,000 young men of color navigate their life journeys. We feature Jen Doman ’85, who is also a current parent, and has changed the lives of hundreds of first-responders and emergency workers during some of their most challenging times. And there is Robert Levin ’64, who is one of the most accomplished pianists in the world, who actually completed Mozart’s Requiem, as well as other classic pieces of music. There are also plenty of features on our current students, colleagues, and Blue Pride! If you want to read “The Light” online, you can do so at the link: http://bit.ly/4dTkmpE

As colorful powder drifted down Pearl Street, drums echoed, and joy filled our community at this year’s Holi celebration! Rooted in traditions of renewal, connection, and the arrival of spring, Holi brought our community together in a vibrant celebration of culture, learning, and belonging. We were thrilled to welcome the Ajna Dance Company, whose movement and storytelling deepened our community’s understanding of the significance and spirit of Holi, alongside dhol player Navdeep, whose music filled the celebration with energy and joy.

Join the BFS Visual Arts team this Thursday for an exciting afternoon exploring the art of Raku, a traditional Japanese ceramic firing technique known for its dramatic process and one-of-a-kind results. Watch as pottery is fired at nearly 1,800 degrees, removed with long tongs, and placed into sawdust and leaves to create stunning surface effects in an instant.

This special BFS event is also part of the larger Brooklyn Ceramic Arts Tour — a citywide celebration of ceramic artistry and community.

We hope you’ll join us for this beloved hands-on arts experience at BFS.

It's 40+ years of friendship and counting for Rachel Fishman, Jessica Black, and Betsey Calaman, Lifetime Friends from the Class of 1986, who came back to BFS Reunion 2026 with a throwback photo—and a whole lot of joy. Some bonds just don't break.

A beloved Brooklyn Friends School tradition returns next week: the All-School Art Show. 🎨✨

Join us as we celebrate the creativity, imagination, and artistic expression of our students across every learning community. From our youngest artists in Early Childhood to our Upper School creators, this joyful exhibition transforms our campuses into galleries filled with color, curiosity, and student voice.

We hope you’ll join us to honor the incredible work our students have created throughout the year.

🖼️ OPENING RECEPTION
Tuesday, May 19 | 4–6pm
375 Pearl Street (Lower Gym) & 116 Lawrence Street (3rd Floor)

🖼️ ON VIEW
May 19–21 | 4–6pm
May 22 | 3:30–4:30pm

At Pearl Street: Early Childhood, Lower School, and Middle School artwork, plus Upper School ceramics, will be on view. At Lawrence Street, US artwork will be on view.

Join us this evening for our AAPI Community Dinner as we gather in celebration, connection, and community.

Tonight, Thursday, May 14 | 5–7:30pm
Upper School at 116 Lawrence Street