The Thacher School
Ojai, CA
Walker Bell Challenge 2026
What is the Walker Bell Challenge?
The Walker Bell Challenge is a week-long virtual fundraising event. The Walker Bell Challenge is a powerful reminder of what we accomplish when the Thacher community gathers with a central goal and focus in mind. It’s not just a week of unlocking funding for the many amazing aspects that makes Thacher unique; it’s also an opportunity for parents, alums, parents of alums, grandparents, and current and former faculty to come together to celebrate the magic of Thacher.
When did the Walker Bell Challenge start?
The Walker Bell Challenge was born out of a need to innovate and pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic. We transitioned our in-person spring auction and benefit, which was formerly on campus during Big Gymkhana weekend, into a week-long virtual fundraising event for the entire Thacher community across the globe, and it has become a beloved tradition of its own in the years since.
Why is it called the Walker Bell Challenge?
The Walker Bell is a longstanding symbol of what brings the Thacher community together regularly for Formal Community Dinner. The bell rings to signal that it is time for students, faculty and staff to walk to dinner, hence the Walker Bell.
If I’ve already given to the Annual Fund, why am I being asked to participate in Walker Bell?
We are so grateful for your ongoing support! At many schools, community members are invited to an annual fundraising dinner or event in addition to their yearly gift. The Walker Bell Challenge is exactly that—our premier community fundraising event, reimagined as a week-long virtual celebration. We reached out because your additional participation in the Walker Bell Challenge helps us build the momentum needed to meet our matching challenges and unlock additional funding for our students.
What are challenge pool donors?
Anyone can become a Challenge Pool donor. The Challenge Pool creates momentum through participation by unlocking challenges that provide additional funds to financial aid once a goal is reached. For example, a Thacher alum makes a gift of any amount and unlocks a matching gift of $500 to support financial aid. If 450 alums give, we unlock $225,000! Challenge Pool donors are similar to sponsors for an in-person event. Challenge Pool support starts at $2,500. Interested in joining the Pool? Reach out to jsutter@thacher.org.