Where does Haverford get its revenue?

Fords Store – Jesse Kanefsky ’29

Wilson Hall is a masterpiece, from the beautiful wood-paneled corridors we walk through to the modern glass pods we study in. Additionally, Haverford offers many different programs and opportunities, begging the question: where does Haverford’s revenue come from?

It is a common saying that students’ tuition covers more than just the cost of simply attending Haverford for a year. While tuition accounts for a significant chunk of the money the school receives, it is not the only revenue factor. 

Interestingly enough, the Haverford School is a nonprofit, operating for educational purposes rather than for profit, while receiving little money from state and local governments.

Looking at the school’s 990 tax form, you are able to see the yearly report the school is required to fill out. Here, we get to see how our school really makes its money.

Many believe that the tuition would be split between tuition at 99% of the revenue, and everything else at 1%. However, it’s crucial to note that there are so many different pieces and committees to keep the Haverford school operating.

The biggest chunk of the revenue comes from tuition, sitting at $38 million last year. Next is our total contributions, equating to $11 million. The school hosts numerous events and has multiple committees, such as the HSPA (Haverford School Parents Association), which build community and raise funds. The development office in Palmer House also raises funds. An avenue of fundraising is the annual fund, where alumni, staff, and parents all donate. Other avenues include the HSPA giving a gift every year to the school for unrestricted funds to the school for whatever is needed. The “Party for a Purpose” event and the school store also raise funds, giving all proceeds to the school.

The daycare brought in nearly $700,000, and the music lessons offered in the conservatory contributed $160,000. 

The school’s investments gave $1.2 million, facility rentals $250,000, and fundraising events $140,000. 

The cafeteria raked in $1.4 million, the cafe $216,000, and lastly the summer camp $223,000. Other miscellaneous sources of revenue gave us the last $350,000, bringing the grand total up to $55 million. 

Many believe that the tuition would be split between tuition at 99% of the revenue, and everything else at 1%. However, it’s crucial to note that there are so many different pieces and committees to keep the Haverford school operating. Every one of the things listed above is essential to Haverford consistently improving and making sure that we are in an environment where we can thrive. 

Author: Index Staff

The Index is a student-run publication of The Haverford School that does more than bring news: it provides the diverse perspectives of the Haverford student body. The Index provides an outlet for student journalists and opinion writers. It chronicles the daily struggles and accomplishments of the Haverford community, provides a forum for discussion of pertinent issues, and aspires to influence constructive change.