DIGITIZATION
Preserves and Shares Poly Memories
What memories do we hold dear? How do our physical items remind us of our past? These and other questions felt especially acute this past winter and early spring. Following conversations with many alumni who lost their homes, and thanks to a terrific idea and subsequent lead gift from Ted and Lori Samuels P’09, ‘10, ‘17, the complete holdings of the Poly Archives are being digitized.
Soon, these materials will be virtually accessible to the entire Poly community. This initiative ensures the stories and spirit of Poly are preserved and can be shared, especially during times of loss and recovery.
Are you in need of replacement Poly memorabilia?
Serendipitously, the Poly Archives has uncovered multiple copies of yearbooks, PawPrints, Oak Tree Times, and other publications. We are excited to share these “extras” with those in need.
Do you have items to contribute?
While the school does not have the physical space to house every beloved item, we will soon be able to document and then photograph or scan items for inclusion in the virtual archive for all community members to enjoy.
The digitization process takes a village!
We applaud the following individuals for their efforts: Upper School Librarian Nora Murphy, Upper School Assistant Librarian Natalie Mattox, professional archivist and former Upper School Assistant Librarian Jenny Cashman, Poly Archivist Barbara Bishop, and Poly alumnae Laila Jaffer ’15 and Sophie Phinney ’18. Thank you to everyone contributing to this meaningful and lasting work.​
Looking to the future
Nora Murphy is optimistic about the archives’ future impact: “I am especially excited to see how we can utilize the digital archives as a teaching and research tool, especially as we prepare students for college and post-graduation. This is a dream project for me and for the school, especially in the wake of the fires, and I cannot wait to launch it for our community in the coming school year.”
John Bracker commented, “Ted and Lori’s gift ensures our story—past, present, and future—is safeguarded and will serve as a resource and inspiration for the community for generations to come.”
Stay tuned!
More will be shared in the months ahead. If you are interested in receiving replacement items or contributing to the virtual archive, please contact archives@polytechnic.org.
Photo contributed by Cameron Dillavou Pfizenmaier ’91