A Legacy of Commitment
For Stephen DiCicco ’64, St. Mark's School has always been more than just a place of learning—it has been a foundation for character, service, and lifelong impact. Stephen arrived at St. Mark's eager to carve out his own path. What he found was a deeply supportive faculty and a community that fostered growth in and out of the classroom.
One of Stephen’s most formative experiences was volunteering at Brantwood Camp, a tradition for many St. Markers. There, he and his classmates were responsible for mentoring younger campers, an experience that shaped his philosophy on leadership and service. "We learned to be role models, and we learned that from our role models at St. Mark's," Stephen reflects.
Stephen’s passion for education and service continued well beyond his school years. He pursued a career in independent school education, eventually becoming a school head. His dedication to Brantwood Camp never wavered; he served as its director and later as president of its board for 14 years, playing a crucial role in the expansion of its programs, including the creation of a girls' camp when St. Mark's became coeducational.
Understanding the profound role St. Mark's played in shaping his life, Stephen has chosen to give back in a meaningful and tax-efficient way. In 2020, he designated St. Mark's as a beneficiary of his Fidelity IRA, committing a percentage of his retirement assets to the School. Recently, he shared that the value of his commitment had grown considerably. This planned gift ensures that future generations of students will benefit from the same transformative experiences that defined his own journey.
"St. Mark's thrives because its alumni are loyal and generous," Stephen says. "The School made our lives what they are today, and we should give back to offer that opportunity to the next generation."
Through his thoughtful estate planning, Stephen is continuing his legacy of service, ensuring that St. Mark's remains a place where young people develop character, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference in the world.