Jones Poundstone Society

The Arcadia University legacy began in 1853 with Sylvania Jones and Juliet A. Poundstone, two 19th century trailblazers who left their family homes to pursue an education and receive the first diplomas from Beaver Female Seminary. The Jones Poundstone Society recognizes donors whose generosity supports Arcadia’s mission and enables the University to uphold its longstanding tradition of academic excellence, cutting-edge innovation, and groundbreaking initiatives. By making an unrestricted gift within a giving circle, you connect with other like-minded donors who believe in the extraordinary things to come at Arcadia.

Jones Poundstone Society Giving Circles

The giving circles within the Jones Poundstone Society are named in accordance with our treasured history. 

Each of the first four circles represents unrestricted support for The Fund for Arcadia. The Presidents Circle entitles the donor to a named, current-use scholarship.

$1,000–$2,499
commemorates the University’s founding

$2,500–$4,999
acknowledges the University’s Jenkintown roots

$5,000–$9,999
celebrates the University’s Beaver College legacy

$10,000–$24,999
moves boldly in the present to ensure a brighter future for the University

$25,000 and higher
honors University leaders past and present

CHOOSE YOUR GIVING CIRCLE

Grey Towers Castle

Inspiration for the Jones Poundstone Society

In 1853, 15-year-old Sylvania Jones and 17-year-old Juliet A. Poundstone left their family homes in Lafayette County, Pa., and accompanied Dr. Sheridan Baker, principal at the Brownsville School they had attended, to a newly chartered female seminary 26 miles northwest of Pittsburgh on the Ohio River’s north bank. Dr. Baker had accepted a position as principal of Beaver Female Seminary, and he and his two pupils would soon become an indelible part of its history.

At Beaver, Jones and Poundstone studied a daringly unconventional curriculum of arts and sciences during an era when few colleges for young women existed. Jones and Poundstone led the way for generations of intellectually curious students to enjoy the rewards of an Arcadia education. In September 1856, they became the first two graduates in the institution’s history.

Supporting Arcadia's Boundless Potential

“When Sylvania Jones and Juliet A. Poundstone began their collegiate studies in 1853, they sparked an enduring passion for transformative learning experiences that persist at Arcadia today. Their pioneering spirit, unwavering fearlessness, and pursuit of intellectual freedom resonate today in our mission and shared values. Donors to the Jones Poundstone Society steward our rich legacy with their thoughtful support for Arcadia’s boundless potential.”

- President Ajay Nair

Impact Philanthropy

Alumni, families, faculty, staff, and friends in the Jones Poundstone Society create an immediate impact for Arcadia students and the University. Support for The Fund for Arcadia sustains the University's trailblazing legacy, while also enabling life-changing learning experiences for students. Unrestricted gifts go to work immediately to support the student experience by expanding the number of scholarships available and strengthening study abroad opportunities; academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular programs; library and scientific resources; technology upgrades; and more. Unrestricted support allows Arcadia the flexibility to allocate funds strategically, drive momentum, and propel the University toward a bolder and more vibrant future.