BCDS Celebrates Spring Soirée Honoring Board Chair Chris Lee

April 25, 2026

On a rainy and chilly Saturday evening, Buckley’s Spring Soirée proved that not even the weather could dampen the spirit of this remarkable community. Guests arrived at Harbor Links Golf Course in their spring finest, bringing warmth, energy, and enthusiasm that transformed the night into a truly memorable celebration.

With 125 attendees—including current and past trustees, parents, faculty, staff, and alumni—the evening struck an intimate and joyful tone, bringing together those who care deeply about Buckley and its future. Inside the beautifully refreshed ballroom, guests were welcomed by décor celebrating Buckley’s Red and Blue teams, with a special nod to the Lee family’s Blue team spirit.

The evening began with a lively cocktail hour in a heated tent, where guests enjoyed drinks, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a seasonal spread. Dinner seating by grade level fostered connection among families, reflecting the close-knit nature of the Buckley community.

The highlight of the evening was a tribute to Chris Lee, who concludes an extraordinary tenure as Board Chair—the longest-serving in nearly a century. In his remarks, Head of School Dr. Jean-Marc Juhel reflected on Chris’s steady leadership and quiet impact on the school.

“Chris has selflessly served as Buckley’s Chair of the Board of Trustees for the past seven years,” said Dr. Juhel. “He chooses not to act like a sage on the stage, but make no mistake—his wisdom and his skills have guided this school forward in ways that will shape Buckley for generations to come.”

Dr. Juhel also spoke to Chris’s character and generosity, noting, “I cannot remember a single occasion when Chris said, ‘I don’t have the time.’ He has given so much of himself to this school—always with humility and a deep commitment to Buckley’s mission.”

And in a moment that captured both admiration and affection, Dr. Juhel added, “Chris leads with patience and diplomacy… and at his core, he is a family man—a proud father whose values are reflected in the remarkable young people he and Julia have raised.”

With a touch of humor, Dr. Juhel recalled Chris’s enthusiastic participation in school life including volunteering for the dunk tank at the Fall Fair—”despite questionable water quality”—a moment that drew laughter and underscored Chris’s willingness to show up wholeheartedly for the community.

Following the tribute, Mr. Lee addressed the audience with characteristic humility and gratitude, recognizing the collective efforts of trustees, faculty and staff, and parent volunteers whose dedication sustains the school’s excellence.

In recognition of his service, Mr. Lee was presented with a custom-engraved gavel and a framed photograph, while his wife, Julia, received a bouquet of flowers in appreciation of the family’s many contributions to Buckley. It was especially meaningful to have their children in attendance—Mason ’22 and Kyle ’22, both soon to graduate from Portledge and headed to West Point, and Sophie, a member of the Class of 2026 and Student Council Co-President, who will attend The Spence School in the fall.

The celebration continued with dessert—including a Blue team-inspired cake—followed by dancing as guests filled the floor and embraced the festive spirit of the evening.

The success of the Spring Soirée was made possible through the generosity of the Buckley community. We extend our sincere thanks to all of our sponsors and donors, with special recognition to our Visionary Sponsors, Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. and Slochowsky & Slochowsky LLP, for their exceptional leadership support.

While rain fell outside, the evening was filled with light, laughter, and a shared sense of purpose—an enduring reflection of the Buckley community at its very best.

Guests are invited to revisit the evening through the digital journal, explore the full list of sponsors and donors, and view event photos.