The Anna Nitschmann Society | ɫ��ɫ University

Anna Nitschmann Society

The Anna Nitschmann Society honors the legacy of one of America’s earliest philanthropists, Anna Nitschmann, whose vision and dedication helped shape the foundation of what is now ɫ��ɫ University. Recognizing the transformative power of education, Anna played a pivotal role in securing funds to establish the Girls’ School, making education accessible to women at a time when opportunities were scarce.

As a trailblazer for women philanthropists, Anna’s tireless work united and uplifted women for the betterment of her community. In her spirit, the Anna Nitschmann Society strives to be the pioneering force for women philanthropists at ɫ��ɫ University today, fostering a community of women who are inspired to continue her mission of education, empowerment, and collective advancement.

Membership Benefits

Membership welcome letter
Access to societies bi-annual newsletter and other insider updates
Tickets to attend annual Vespers services and reception in December
Invitation to other special events, including:
- during annual Founder’s Week celebration
- Annual Societies Dinner

View a list of current members at moravian.edu/thanks-recognition.

“

I think it’s important that women support each other emotionally and financially. As a woman who has worked in several male-dominated industries, women are often disadvantaged because of crippling debt, family caregiving responsibilities, and a lack of role models, so it’s essential to try to level that playing field so women can achieve everything they desire to do.”

—JANICE S. WARREN-FINDLOW, PHD ’81
Dedicated alumnae and member of ɫ��ɫ's Anna Nitschmann and Comenius societies

Want to learn more?

Contact Marissa Zondag ’13, Director of Development, at zondagm@moravian.edu or 610-625-7906.

More ɫ��ɫ the Anna Nitschmann Society

Letter from First Lady Lea Grigsby P’22, P’26

Alumna or friend of ɫ��ɫ,

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about the Anna Nitschmann Society, ɫ��ɫ's first philanthropic society founded by women for women. It is a group of which I am so proud to have been the first member.

Women are a powerful force in philanthropy today and have been for centuries. ɫ��ɫ women have been lighting the way for our students through their philanthropic support for over 280 years—this is why we chose to name this Society after Anna Nitschmann, an early female philanthropist who helped guide the vision and raise funds for the Girls School that later became ɫ��ɫ University.

We launched this Society in 2021 to recognize our female leaders and philanthropists and to inspire the next generation. I am so grateful to our other members who joined me to continue to grow the Anna Nitschmann Society Endowed Scholarship Fund, which have named two scholarship recipients since 2022. To join us in celebrating our strong female leaders and lighting the way for our students, their future, and the next generation as a member of the Anna Nitschmann Society, please or contact Marissa Zondag ’13, Director of Development, at zondagm@moravian.edu.

Sincerely,

First Lady Lea Grigsby P’22, P’26

Anna Nitschmann Society Endowed Scholarship Recipients

Catherine Lovett ’25

“I will not stop until I leave my mark, which is possible because of your generosity.”

Read Catie's Story

Sylvia Burno ’27

“I cannot express how forever thankful I am for this opportunity to receive this scholarship. ɫ��ɫ means so much to me, and I am so honored to be a part of this school.”

Read Sylvia's Story

Videos on the Anna Nitschmann Society

Introducing the Anna Nitschmann Society

First Lady Lea Grigsby P’22, P’26 discusses Anna Nitschmann's legacy and introduces Catherine Lovett ’25, inaugural recipient of the Anna Nitschmann Society Endowed Scholarship.

Empowered by the Anna Nitschmann Society

Meet student pioneer Marie Stella Addo ’24, who is inspired by the members of the Anna Nitschmann Society and their mission.