Blackburn Society Member Profile with FCS Trustee Charlie King ’80

What does Friends’ Central mean to you?

Friends’ Central is foundational to who I am. As an only child, I made up for the lack of siblings through friendships that started at FCS and still exist today. The sense of community extended beyond classmates to teachers, staff, and everyone at the School, creating a rich environment that has followed me throughout my life. My career path and even meeting my wife all have Friends’ Central connections woven through them.

Why are you making a legacy gift to Friends’ Central?

My giving comes from gratitude for what I received from my classmates, faculty, staff, and coaches during those formative years. I want to honor the people who shaped my experience, including classmates we’ve sadly lost, and ensure the School remains strong for future generations. Just as we benefited from previous generations’ support through capital campaigns and bequests, I see this as planting for future students a tree that I’ll never sit under myself.

Why should others join the Blackburn Society?

Think about the essence of what Friends’ Central offers: the community, values, inclusivity, and acceptance of differences. For this type of institution to exist and be more broadly available to students regardless of economic background, it needs support. Everyone has their own motivation for giving back—but if you consider the good things you received and what others can gain going forward, it’s a worthwhile investment in future generations.