Garfield Golden Grads History: A Legacy of Excellence and Community
Origins and Early Years
Garfield Golden Grads traces its roots all the way back to 1925, when Garfield High School opened its doors and began to establish a reputation for academic excellence and community involvement. Located in the heart of Seattle, Garfield High quickly became a cornerstone of the local community. The school as produced many distinguished alumni who made significant contributions to society in various fields, including politics, education, business, and the arts.
Recognizing the importance of maintaining a connection among graduates, a group of passionate alumni founded the Garfield Golden Grads association (GGG) in 1950. Their mission was to create a network of former students who would support each other and give back to their alma mater.
Growth and development
In the decades that followed its inception, GGG grew steadily, both in numbers and influence. The organization focused on creating opportunities for networking, mentorship, and community service among its members. The annual class reunion events became a highlight for many, offering a chance to reconnect with old friends and celebrate their shared history.
During the 1970s and 1980s, GGG introduced scholarship programs to support current students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement, helping to ensure that deserving students could pursue higher education without financial barriers. The success of these programs led to the establishment of the GGG Scholarship Fund, which has since grown to include an impressive $125,000 available for new scholarships each year.
As the world entered the digital age, the association adapted to new technologies to better serve its members and the school. The GGG newsletter started in 1988. In the late 1990s, the organization launched its first website, allowing GGG to reach a wider audience and engage with alumni who had moved away from the local area. In 2007, the newsletter became the Gazette, shepherded by Carolyn Emmons Carpp ’54.
Community involvement and philanthropy
Throughout its history, GGG has remained committed to giving back to the surrounding community, becoming involved in numerous philanthropic initiatives, including supporting local charities, organizing fundraising events, and providing financial assistance to students in need. One of the most significant developments in recent years has been the introduction of GGG internships. These internships, created in collaboration with the principal Dr. Tarance Hart, provide valuable opportunities for current students to gain hands-on experience in various fields such as technical support, social media, website management, photography, and editing. Interns work closely with experienced professionals, developing skills that will serve them well in their future careers.
One notable example of the association’s philanthropic efforts is the Annual Garfield Golden Grads Luncheon, a fundraising event that brings together alumni, current students, and community members to celebrate the achievements of Garfield High School and raise funds for scholarships and other programs, including peer tutoring.
Partnerships and collaborations
GGG has also forged strong partnerships with other organizations to further its mission. One of the most significant partnerships is with the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA), which has grown stronger over the years. This collaboration has paved the way for numerous successful initiatives, including joint fundraising efforts, educational programs, and community service projects. In addition, GGG has worked with local businesses, nonprofits, and educational institutions to create opportunities for students and alumni alike. These partnerships have helped to expand GGG’s reach and impact.
A bright future
As GGG looks to the future, we remain dedicated to our core mission of supporting alumni, current students, and the broader community. A key initiative moving forward is updating the comprehensive current and past membership list, as well as backing up the data in case of emergency. GGG also plans to expand its scholarship and internship programs. By fostering a culture of excellence and community involvement, GGG aims to inspire future generations to carry on the proud legacy of Garfield High School.