Remembering Lilli Friedman

Posted on Monday, May 6th, 2019

Lilli Friedman (right) with Yvette Siegel-Herzog (left) and Dr. Mimi Michael

Dear Members of the Stephen Gaynor School Family,

It is with sadness we share that Lilli Friedman, former Director of Admissions for Stephen Gaynor School, passed away on May 4, 2019 at the age of 94. While her title was Director of Admissions, Ms. Friedman was so much more. According to Head of School Dr. Scott Gaynor, “Lilli effortlessly managed the admissions, registrar’s and general office responsibilities with warmth and energy — embodying the school’s spirit and always wearing a smile.”

The Stephen Gaynor School community of the present was shaped in large part by a few key individuals who were instrumental during the early days of the school. Co-Founders Dr. Mimi Michael and Yvette Siegel obviously impacted the school’s philosophy and founding principals. One individual worked behind the scenes to influence generations of students. Lilli Friedman served on Gaynor’s staff from 1969 to 2012 – a remarkable 43 years of service. Upon her retirement, Ms. Friedman said, “I feel that [Gaynor] is part of the family. I enjoyed every minute that I spent here.”

We will miss Lilli, but carry with us the wonderful memories of the friendships that she made and the countless families that she helped.