Philanthropy in Motion: Curtis Runnels and Priscilla Murray Honor Anne P. Chapin Through the Acquisitions Fund for Archives
Anne at the INSTAP Study Center for East Crete, 2013
|
For many, the decision to give is deeply personal, often rooted in a transformative experience or the profound influence of a mentor. At the American School, where the past and present are in constant dialogue, these feelings run deep and inspire donors to invest in preserving history, fostering future discoveries, and advancing education and public awareness of the vital heritage of Greece.
One such story is that of Curtis Runnels and Priscilla Murray, whose generosity was inspired by the enduring legacy of their colleague, Anne P. Chapin. Runnels is Professor of Archaeology, Anthropology, and Classical Studies at Boston University, and has conducted research with Priscilla in Greece since 1973. Runnels’ research has encompassed many topics ranging from the dispersals of early humans during the Palaeolithic to the emergence of agriculture and early civilization. Runnels has also made significant contributions as editor-in-chief of the Journal of Field Archaeology, as a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries of London, and as a valued member of the American School of Classical Studies where he serves on the Managing Committee and as an Overseer of the Gennadius Library. In 2019, Runnels was awarded the prestigious Gold Medal for Distinguished Archaeological Achievement from the Archaeological Institute of America, a testament to his lifelong dedication to advancing the study of the ancient world.
Honoring the Legacy of Anne P. Chapin
Anne Chapin embodied the spirit of the American School, dedicating her life to mentoring, teaching, and research that celebrated the archaeological and artistic heritage of Greece. She viewed the School not just as an institution but as a living community. She cherished the School, its traditions and members, and all it stands for.
“The Acropolis of Athens, 1875”
from an album of watercolors by an unknown artist, a gift to the Archives
from Curtis Runnels and Priscilla Murray in memory of Anne P. Chapin
To honor her vision and extraordinary contributions, Curtis and Priscilla established the Anne P. Chapin Acquisitions Fund for Archives, as a lasting testament to her life and career. This fund is intended to support the Archives of the American School, which hold the collective memories of those who have been part of its community and preserves since its inception the story of the School’s engagement with the Greek world.
The Archives are a treasure trove of historical documents, photographs, and personal accounts that inspire research and exhibitions. They embody the essence of the School’s spirit of Hellenism, making the Anne P. Chapin Fund a vital resource for maintaining and growing this invaluable collection.
“View from Acrocorinth, 1875”
from an album of watercolors by an unknown artist, a gift to the Archives
from Curtis Runnels and Priscilla Murray in memory of Anne P. Chapin
A Lasting Impact
The Anne P. Chapin Fund will enable the Archives to conserve their collections, acquire new materials, and make these resources accessible to scholars, students, and the public. By supporting this fund, donors ensure that Anne Chapin’s name—and her commitment to Greek heritage and scholarship—will inspire generations to come.
Join Us in Preserving a Legacy
We invite you to contribute to the Anne P. Chapin Acquisitions Fund for Archives. Your support will help us preserve the collective memories of the American School community and continue to celebrate the spirit of Hellenism that Anne Chapin so deeply cherished.
Together, we can ensure that the past remains a source of inspiration for the future.
Donate Today:
For more information, please contact Andrew Federico, Stewardship and Events Manager at afederico@ascsa.org