Help Central High student clubs, YVC and Feeding Philly, win a $20,000 grant!

Revitalizing with Green

Central High student clubs, Youth Volunteer Corps Central High Chapter and Feeding Philly, have the opportunity to win a $20,000 grant. In the fall, the clubs won a small grant from the Philly Service Award to implement a service project. Together, both groups developed a project, ‘Revitalizing with Green’, to convert three barren and hazardous lots in Kensington into vibrant community gardens, […]

Rich Drayton Jr. (246)- Athletic Facilities Initiative

Rich Drayton 246

The Associated Alumni of Central High (AACHS) is thrilled to spotlight one of our esteemed alumni, faculty members, and current Athletic Director, Rich Drayton (246) in our ongoing efforts to improve Central’s athletic facilities. Mr. Drayton’s journey through Central is a testament to the transformative power of our alma mater. Reflecting on his initial reluctance […]

Support the RoboLancers

Robolancers

Support the RoboLancers on their journey to the Robotics World Championship in Houston, Texas.

Lancer Spotlight: Student Series, Owen S., 285

Owen S. 285

Owen S., a sophomore at Central High School, faced challenges with determination and found strength in wrestling and community support after losing his mother during freshman year. Despite adversity, he excelled academically and on the wrestling team, earning admiration from his coach and peers. Grateful for the supportive Lancer community, Owen looks forward to continued growth.

Alicia Oglesby, 258

Meet Alicia Oglesby, 258

 Alicia Oglesby, 258, is a valued member of the AACHS Board of Managers and our talented Editor-in-Chief of the Alumni Journal.

Central High Nurtures Leaders

Central High Nurtures Leaders

Hear from three students in the video compilation of how the clubs in which they started or hold leadership positions has helped to shape their high school experience.

Call for Contributors – Spring 2024 Alumni Journal

Alumni Journal Spring 2024 Changemakers - Call for Contributors

As we gear up for the upcoming Spring 2024 Alumni Journal, we are thrilled to announce the theme for this edition: Changemakers. Submissions to be sent in by April 1st, 2024 to alumnijournal@centralhighalumni.com.

Worldly Wisdom: Central Students Soar Across Continents

Empower Learning Beyond the Classroom

For the past six years, Central has proudly collaborated with the CIEE study abroad program. Each summer, around fifty students journey to one of over thirty-five global locations, supported by generous scholarships and aid. Hear directly from some of the students on how these immersive experiences have profoundly enhanced their educational journey.

Beyond the Classroom: AACHS Celebrates Black Excellence

Celebrating Black History Month

Your gift will allow for educational opportunities, cultural pride, and creativity within our community to stand as a testament in the ongoing impact we can make collectively. Thank you. In recognition and celebration of Black History Month, it is with great pride that the AACHS share a remarkable story of Black excellence within our own […]

Emanuel “Manny” Mandel 202

In honor of the upcoming Holocaust Remembrance Day on Saturday, January 27th, we would like to spotlight Emanuel “Manny” Mandel, 202. 

Annual Reception 2024

Save the Date, Lancers! Join us for the AACHS Annual Reception on Thursday, June 6th at 5:30 PM. The dinner and reception will be held at Rivers Waterfront Philadelphia (1001 N Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125).

The Arts at Central Presents Matilda the Musical!

Get ready to be enchanted by Central High School’s production of Matilda the Musical!

Join us on a magical journey filled with whimsy, laughter, and incredible talent as our students bring this beloved story to life from January 31st to February 2nd.

Join the 1836 Society Today!

Join or Renew Membership – Click Here 🎉✨ Cheers to a new year, Central High alumni! 🥂🎆 As we embark on fresh beginnings, let’s make history together by joining the 1836 Society! Members making an annual minimum gift of $1,836 unlock an exclusive world of privileges: 🌟 Invitation to an annual reception and special members-only […]

2023 Highlights from President Davis and AACHS

AACHS End of Year 2023 Photo Collage

A message from President Katharine Davis. 264: It has been a wonderful 2023 at Central High School. We closed 2023 with two incredible concert performances put on by our Arts Department. We were delighted to have many parents, alumni, faculty, and students in the audience.  As we approach the midpoint of the school year, students are gearing up for their […]

Join Us For Breakfast and Football on Thanksgiving Day!

Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast and Game

Join your fellow alums, students, faculty and friends on Thursday, November 28th at 8:45 AM at the Tiffany Diner (9010 Roosevelt Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19115) for a hearty breakfast, good conversation and plenty of school spirit!

Singing Your Praises from Giving Tuesday 2023!

Thank You GT 2023 Post

Singing Your Praises from Giving Tuesday 2023! We are excited to report that because of YOU, this year’s Giving Tuesday was a resounding success. We collectively raised over $166,000 to support students and the Lancer community!  The gifts received were from graduates spanning across 100 classes; from the 182nd Class to the 282nd Class, as well as former and current […]

1836 Society Appreciation Event

1836 Society Member Appreciation Event Join or renew your 1836 Society Membership Register for the Appreciation Event We cordially extend an invitation to both current and new 1836 Society Members to partake in this affair, offering an opportunity to engage with students, faculty, leadership, and fellow 1836 Society Members within the historic walls of our esteemed institution. This event is […]

Central Spirit(s)

Central Spirit(s) Purchase Your Ticket(s) Here Get ready to raise your glasses and celebrate the essence of Central spirit like never before! We’re thrilled to introduce our inaugural Central Spirit(s) Exclusive Tasting event. Date: September 27th 🕕 Time: 5-8 PM Venue: BOTLD Rittenhouse (119 S. 18th St) Indulge in the Central SPIRIT: Immerse yourself in […]

Nancy Abraham 272

Meet Nurse, Nancy Abraham (272) *The original email contained a misprint, please accept our sincerest apologies Six months into her role as the Director of Patient Experience at Temple University Hospital, Nancy Abraham (272), is not only mastering the true essence of being a part of the patient experience but also learning how to make a positive and […]

The 16th Annual Golf Outing

The 16th Annual Golf Outing Dear Lancers, In late June, the 16th Annual CHS Golf Outing was held at Ramblewood Country Club in Mt. Laurel, NJ.  This year’s fundraiser was dedicated in memory of Lancer Athlete, Troy Hughes, 246. There were over 70 golfers—a record number—who participated in this year’s outing.  More than two dozen hole sponsors […]

CentralSIPS2023

Central SIPS 2023 Central SIPS is making its return on Thursday, August 17th at 5 PM.  This event will be held at Pagano’s (2001 Market St., Philadelphia, PA). Fun fact: Pagano’s is owned by a member of our Central alumni community. Join us for the popular networking event where Central alumni, friends, and faculty gather […]

End of Year 22-23

And With That The 2022-23 School Year Comes to a Close! Dear Alumni, Faculty, and Friends, As the school year has come to a close and we reflect on the accomplishments and challenges that Central has experienced, we are confident in the strides we make to continue to move Central High School forward and to […]

Kasey Shamis 282

Meet Recent Graduate, Kasey Shamis (282) Four years ago, Kasey Shamis, was welcomed into the Lancer family as a member of the 282nd class. She was pleasantly surprised at how supportive Central’s environment was and the unique opportunities that exist for the student body. Kasey credits her time in clubs, organizations, and sports as experiences […]

Annual Reception TY 2023

Thank you for attending the Annual Reception 2023 Over 200 attendees were present at the 2023 Annual Reception last week. Members from the 194th to the 285th graduating classes joined us for a robust program. Highlights from the event include:  Important updates from current CHS President Kate Davis (264) and outgoing AACHS President Neil Deegan […]

Annual Reception 2023

Please join us for a night of exciting conversations, endless memories, and a robust program at Rivers Waterfront (1001 N Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125). Your ticket includes cocktail hour, dinner fare, drinks, a dessert reception, and remarks from student speakers, keynote speaker, Keith Leaphart (251), and more!

Layton Violin Donation

Harvey Layton (224) Donates Violin to Music Program at Central “Once you become a musician, you’re a different person. It’s like being able to speak different languages”. Recently, the AACHS welcomed back Harvey Layton (224) to our Dear old High for a special occasion. Mr. Layton reached out to the AACHS with a goal in mind. He […]

Notice of Elections

Notice of Elections The Committee on Nomination and Elections, David R. Kahn, 220, and Marisa L. Block, 265, Co-Chairpersons, presents the following nominations for positions on the Alumni Board of Managers. The election was held and approved at the Annual Reception at Rivers Waterfront on June 6, 2023. Nominated for the Term expiring June 30, […]

Elease Lui Stemp 255

Meet Filmmaker, Elease Lui Stemp (255) “The education that I received at Central was integral to my journey in becoming a filmmaker, in ways that I didn’t even realize.” Born and raised in Northeast Philadelphia, Elease Lui Stemp, 255 is the child of Chinese immigrants and the first in her family to graduate from college. While […]

Lady Lancer Nominations

Nominate a Lady Lancer for the Fall 2023 Alumni Journal Nominate Here We need your help! In honor of Women’s History Month and the 40-year anniversary of women students joining the Lancer community, we want to spotlight our amazing alumnae. We are asking for our network to nominate a Lady Lancer (self-nominations are welcomed) who embodies integrity, strength, and […]

40 for 40

Show your Support for the 40th Anniversary of Lady Lancers Make a $40 gift to remember the legacy that these women built 2023 marks the 40th anniversary of women students attending Central High School. A small group of women led the way for thousands of students to fully immerse themselves at dear old High. This strong addition […]

Amazon Smile Ending February 20, 2023

Amazon Smile Charity Program Ending February 20th We are so sad to see Amazon Smile go. But we are so appreciative of the purchases you’ve made over the years that directly benefit the AACHS! This program is a donation model that Amazon funds at no cost to the customer. Simply choose your charity of choice […]

AACHS Swag Store

AACHS swag store

Show Your Crimson and Gold Pride! Looking for that perfect romantic gift or maybe you want to treat yourself after the holidays? We can’t think of a better way to support the AACHS and stay on trend than to purchase from our online store! You can choose from a wide range of apparel, outerwear, and […]

Notice to AACHS Membership – Join the Board of Managers!

Notice to Join the Board of Managers

The Committee on Nominations and Elections (CNE) is seeking candidates interested in serving on the Board of Managers. The CNE is particularly interested in Alumni/Alumnae who have already expressed interest in serving and are already participating in committee work or other areas that directly benefit the AACHS and/or the school. However, all recommendations will be […]

Celebrate World Teachers’ Day

World Teachers Day

Celebrate World Teachers’ Day On October 5th, join Central alumni as we thank our educators by helping to fulfill school supply wish lists provided by School-Based Teacher Leaders (SBTL) of the following departments: English, Math, Social Studies, and World Language. This is a great opportunity to support the nearly 140 teachers and 2400 students at Central […]

Meet & Greet at Central High School

Meet & Greet 2022

Please join us for a Meet & Greet with President Katharine Davis and esteemed faculty of Central High School as we ring in the school year and the start of a new era.

Hear President Davis share her vision for the upcoming year
Learn about upcoming events hosted by the AACHS
Connect with fellow alumni
Meet current students!

Ring in a New Tradition: Charter Day

Charter Day is here: today marks the start of a new AACHS tradition! June 13th is the date that Central High School was chartered. Starting this year, we encourage you to join us as we celebrate Charter Day by revisiting those “glorious days of old” and leading the way for future generations to preserve our Central traditions. How can you ring in the new […]

AACHS Celebrates Women’s History Month

AACHS Celebrates Women’s History Month As we recognize Women’s History Month, we are reminded of the upcoming 40th anniversary of our alma mater becoming co-ed.  It’s the story of our legacy with which most of us have only slight familiarity — many brave young women entered Central’s hallowed halls for thousands more to follow. But this was not achieved easily.  The AACHS […]

Central’s Next President

I am writing you today to share information regarding the selection process for the 15th President of Central High School, and how our community can get involved and share their input throughout this process.

🎶 With Joyful Hearts Once More We’ll Sing 🎶 Thanks to You!

Joyful Hearts image

As this interesting, unusual year that was 2021 comes to a close, I wanted to express my heartfelt appreciation for you, alumni. Despite all the challenges 2021 provided, your continued support of Central’s current and future students resulted in milestones the AACHS is proud to share

Giving Tuesday 2021 Recap

Giving Tuesday 2021 Thank You

Giving Tuesday 2021 Recap Central High Alumni like you stepped up and responded to make this year’s #GivingTuesday the most successful one yet. Over 340 alumni and friends made gifts on #GivingTuesday, many for the first time. We are excited to report that because of YOU, the AACHS raised over $125,000! Thanks to the generous […]

Giving Back on Giving Tuesday

Giving Back on Giving Tuesday

Giving Back on Giving Tuesday The holiday season is just around the corner, and we invite you to kick it off with us by Giving Back on Giving Tuesday! Giving Tuesday is an opportunity for people around the world to come together to support a cause close to their hearts. Take part in this special […]

1836 Society, 2021-2022

1836 Society mask

1836 Society, 2021-2022 The 1836 Society is composed of a special group of alumni and friends whose collective generosity guarantees that Central remains a place of educational exploration and personal growth for students seeking to reach their full potential. We are grateful to the many who help to ensure that the mission of the AACHS […]

Career Day 2021

Career Day 2021

Career Day 2021 On Monday, November 22, 2021 the AACHS will proudly present its annual Career Day program virtually to this year’s seniors and juniors, the 281st and 282nd classes. Although students are back in the building, it still remains closed to visitors so the Program & Alumni Engagement Committee has decided to hold this […]

Sip or Treat

Join Us for the Sip or Treat Event! Let’s get sPoOkY and support our beloved AACHS for the return of the popular Central SIPS event!  Enjoy free entry, food & drink specials, and celebrate the school we love with classmates and alumni while enjoying the beautiful, iconic, and nationally historic Divine Lorraine!  Come for the camaraderie, stay for the […]

We’re Hiring: Development Manager

AACHS Development Mgr

We’re Hiring: Development Manager The Associated Alumni of Central High School of Philadelphia seeks a full-time dynamic Development Manager that will keep pace and help grow our organization. The mission of the AACHS is to encourage and support the School’s high standards of scholarship, integrity and democratic values, to facilitate and maintain pride in Central […]

From Student to Teacher

From Student to Teacher Ask any student from the last 15 years about Michael Horwits and they’ll know exactly who you are talking about, and they’ll likely have a story to tell. Chances are he’ll also remember them and have a story to tell as well. Mr. Horwits (251) is a 3rd generation Lancer, Central […]

Back to School Message

For The First Time In Forever Tuesday, August 31st will be an exciting day for the Central High School community. It will be the first time since March 2020 that the full student body will walk through Central’s doors to learn from each other and our remarkable faculty and staff. “This year we will get […]

Auditorium Seat Sale

Auditorium Seat Sale

Leave A Lasting Legacy At Central! Dedicating an auditorium seat is a great way to create a permanent legacy at Central for you, a family member, or a loved one. You can also pay tribute to a teacher who left a lasting impression or a classmate who became a lifelong friend. The seats are selling […]

Piece by Piece – A Sign of Resilience

Piece by Piece – A Sign of Resilience When schools closed in March 2020 no one knew how long until they could return or what to expect. As the days turned to weeks turned to months, students realized they needed to get creative to stay connected. “The whole ensemble experience is making music together and that […]

Central Student Joins School Board

Rebecca Allen (282)

Central Student Joins School Board Students in the School District of Philadelphia will have a seat at the table during Board of Education meetings represented by a rising junior at Central High School. The AACHS congratulates Rebecca Allen (282), who is one of just two high school students citywide to be chosen as Student Board […]

Celebrating Successes

FY21 Successes Image

Celebrating Successes From The Past Year It has been an unusual school year as you can imagine. During this challenging time, the AACHS board has been meeting and working virtually – but we have not missed a beat. We have continued to ensure that students at Central receive the best education and resources in the […]

Meet The Executive Director: Cynthia Lech, 263

Cynthia Lech, 263

The AACHS Board of Managers is pleased
to welcome Cynthia Lech (263) as the organization’s first full-time executive director. She’s no stranger to the AACHS, having served on the Board of Managers for several years.

Meet the Executive Committee: Neil Deegan, Vice President, 263

Deegan Headshot

Neil Deegan, Vice President, 263 It wasn’t long after graduating from college that Neil Deegan started going back to Central to take part in the school’s annual Career Day. While he was a student at Central, he worked closely with the AACHS committee that worked on building the new Barnwell Library so he already knew […]

Central Alum and World War II Veteran Celebrates 104th Birthday

Fred Gomez is not the kind of guy who spends time sitting around the house, despite turning 104 years old on September 9th, 2019. Twice a week, he takes transportation from his son’s home in Maple Glen, Montgomery County to the Central Bucks Senior Center in Doylestown, Bucks County where he shoots pool in the […]

Central High School Groundbreaking Marks Start of Major Renovation/Expansion 

Groundbreaking for the new addition (2019)

The School District of Philadelphia, along with Central High School and the Associated Alumni of Central High School held a groundbreaking ceremony at the school today to mark the start of construction for Phase 1 of a unique public-private partnership called “Leading the Way for Innovation and Creativity.”

AACHS Journal – Winter 2019 Edition

  The 2019 Winter Edition of the AACHS Alumni Journal has arrived! This edition contains information on the 2019 Annual Meeting; an article on Hall of Fame recipient, Betty Liu; new options for school spirit wear; the AACHS President’s message: “all about the kids” and much more! Please send any feedback to alumnijournal@centralhighalumni.com. Thank you! For those […]

Signature Annual Meeting Event will feature two inimitable speakers!

Join us on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 5 PM for The Associated Alumni of Central High School’s Annual Meeting and Dinner at the Sonesta Rittenhouse Square (1800 Market St., Philadelphia). We are honored to announce our two inimitable speakers for the evening’s program: Jane Golden and alumna Trang Do (261). Ms. Golden is the Founder and Executive Director of Mural […]

Central High School President Honored For Commitment to Education

  The Associated Alumni of Central High School would like to congratulate Central President Timothy J. McKenna for receiving the coveted Martin L. Glassman Commitment to Education Award from the Schoolmen’s Club of Philadelphia. The award was given to President McKenna during the organization’s Annual Awards and Holiday Dinner in December, 2018. “I’m honored to […]

CHS Ranked Top Overall High School in Philadelphia

Central High School is not only the top high school in the city of Philadelphia, but the top overall school, according to the 2017-2018 School Progress Report (SPR) released by the School District of Philadelphia. This is the second consecutive year that Central has achieved that status. The SPR ranks schools in the areas of […]

Help Wanted! (Experience in Corporate/Financial Governance Matters)

The AACHS is seeking the assistance of an individual(s) with experience in corporate/financial governance matters to aid in the drafting of governance documents for various projects in which AACHS is or will be engaged. Interested parties should contact Andrew Kessler (243) at kessler@litchfieldcavo.com. Thank you.  

Central Alumnus Donates Personal Papers to Central High School

Central alumni, faculty and students now have the opportunity to get a glimpse into what it was like to be on the front lines of the world’s financial markets over the last half century. Central alumnus Eugene (Gene) Rotberg (188) has gifted selected speeches and articles to Central High School. Mr. Rotberg, a lawyer and […]

One Point. One Request. AACHS Lawyers, the CHS Mock Trial Team needs your help.

One point. That was the margin by which Roman Catholic High School defeated Central High School to win last year’s citywide high school mock trial championship. Lina Bader, Central’s faculty mock trial sponsor, is determined to see a different result this year. In order to accomplish this, the Central High School Mock Trial team is seeking alumni […]

The Summer/Fall 2018 issue of the AACHS Alumni Journal

The AACHS Summer/Fall 2018 Journal issue of the AACHS Alumni Journal is now live! In this edition, we have a recap of the annual dinner which broke all attendance records, a preview of the upcoming Alumni Hall of Fame event, a reflection on important moments in Central history and more. Of course, we have our favorite recurring […]

Project Cool Breeze

School bells rang for the commencement of the 2018-2019 school year last week, just days before Labor Day. While many students hoped for one more summer day albeit in the sweltering heat, this year, for the first time in the school’s history, students and teachers returned (or were welcomed) to classrooms that are air conditioned. 75 window unit air conditioners – a generous donation from the 228th Class – were installed over the summer by the Philadelphia School District employees.

Award-Winning Photography of Army Veteran Milt Dienes Featured in New Show

A new show at the New Upper Merion Community Center in King of Prussia is featuring award-winning works by photographers including Central’s Milt Dienes (177). Dienes, 94, has been taking pictures for more than 70 years and his exclusive photos of Nagasaki, Japan, following its bombing in August 1945 by the U.S., are preserved in the Library of Congress.

2018 Hall of Fame Finale Promises to Be Grand

It has been a great season of Alumni Hall of Fame inductions thanks to alumni attendees and sponsors. Now AACHS would be honored to have your participation in the premier event of the 2018 Hall of Fame ceremonies: the Oct.  17 dinner celebration honoring the living, non-faculty inductees. Come learn about the extraordinary achievements of eight […]

Is That a Lancer in That Car Up Ahead?

Many a conversation has started between Central alumni encountering one of their own around town and around the world simply at the sight of a Central hat or T-shirt. Soon those conversations will start turning into honks and nods on the road, no doubt, thanks new license plates available to Pennsylvania drivers.

What Is Central Like Compared to When You Were There? A+

By Yvonne Dennis (246) One of the most frequent questions alumni ask about Dear Old High is what is the school like compared to when I was there? Some even ask more bluntly: Is it still as good? The alumni association aims to answer that for you via news and feature articles on this site […]

Deputy U.S. Attorney General Rod Rosenstein Headlines Annual Dinner

Join us on Tuesday June 5, 2018, at 5 p.m. for The Associated Alumni of Central High School’s Annual Meeting and Dinner at the Sheraton Society Hill Hotel (1 Dock Street, Philadelphia). A limited number of hotel rooms are available at the Sheraton for out of town alumni at a cost of $209 per night. The […]

Six Former Teachers Inducted Into Faculty Hall of Fame at Central

Six former teachers have been added to the prestigious Associated Alumni of Central High School’s Faculty Hall of Fame. On March 20, 2018, AACHS hosted induction ceremonies during an assembly for the 277th (senior) Class in the school’s Tracy Auditorium. The latest class of inductees includes Frank Greco, a member of the 228th Class who […]

Just Released: Your Spring 2018 Alumni Journal!

By Neil Deegan (263) We’re excited to share with you the latest edition of the AACHS Alumni Journal! Inside, you’ll find details on our highly anticipated annual meeting and dinner on June 5 and news of our ambitious capital campaign initiative, along with stories and news from our alumni, class notes, updates on reunions and more. […]

Come Out for Alumni Golf, Baseball Fun

Yvonne Dennis (246) Spring fun is almost upon us. If you haven’t joined alumni, students and staff before for the annual alumni golf outing sponsored by Central’s football team or the annual alumni baseball game sponsored by Central’s baseball team, you’ll want to remedy that posthaste. On May 16, come to Melrose Country Club in Cheltenham for golf, lunch and […]

University City Bookstore Has a Deal for Central Supporters

By Yvonne Dennis (246) Do all of your book shopping at Penn Book Center in University City in the month of March and not only will you get 20% off, but the Associated Alumni of Central High School will get a donation from the bookstore. The benefit for the bookstore, customers and the alumni association […]

Help Honor the Next Faculty Hall of Famers

On Tuesday March 20, 2018, six former Central faculty members will be inducted into the Faculty Hall of Fame. Alumni and former students are cordially invited to the ceremony honoring these exceptional teachers. Emcee, Dr. Sheldon Pavel will begin the ceremony in the school auditorium at 8 A.M. sharp. Frank Greco, 228th Class, taught Health and Phys.Ed., […]