Illuminations: MMFS Benefit 2026

Illuminations: Benefit 2026; Building a Brilliant Future

MMFS’s annual Benefit is a celebration of community and an opportunity to honor people who have made important contributions to MMFS or to the field of learning disabilities. It’s not only our signature fundraiser, it’s one of the most fun events of the year!

This year we are pleased to honor three beloved members of our community for their transformative contributions to our school.

Jim Signorelli, M​i​ddle School Dean of Students, will receive the Violet Longobardi Award for his extraordinary dedication to Mary McDowell Friends School.

The 2026 Adam’s Prize with be given to to Deborah Edel and Daniel Freelander, in recognition of their contributions to the field of educating children with learning disabilities. Both Deborah and Danny have been instrumental in the growth of the school from a small program in the basement of the Quaker Meeting House to a leader in K-12 special education.

Our fundraising efforts will focus on building the MMFS community and ensuring our students have the resources and support they need for years to come.

For more information, contact Director of Development Sadia Mehmood-Pellicano [email protected].