Anna Nitschmann Society

Anna Nitschmann Society

The Anna Nitschmann Society honors the legacy of one of America’s earliest philanthropists, Anna Nitschmann, whose vision and dedication helped shape the foundation of what is now Moravian University. Recognizing the transformative power of education, Anna played a pivotal role in securing funds to establish the Girls’ School, making education accessible to women at a time when opportunities were scarce. 

As a trailblazer for women philanthropists, Anna’s tireless work united and uplifted women for the betterment of her community. In her spirit, the Anna Nitschmann Society strives to be the pioneering force for women philanthropists at Moravian University today, fostering a community of women who are inspired to continue her mission of education, empowerment, and collective advancement.

Membership Benefits

  • Membership welcome letter
  • Access to societies bi-annual newsletter and other insider updates
  • Tickets to attend annual Vespers services and reception in December
  • Invitation to other special events, including:
Join the Anna Nitschmann Society

View a list of current members at moravian.edu/thanks-recognition.

Want to learn more?

Marissa Zondag ’13, Director of Development

Contact Marissa Zondag ’13, Director of Development, at zondagm@moravian.edu or 610-625-7906.

More About the Anna Nitschmann Society

Letter from First Lady Lea Grigsby P’22, P’26

Alumna or friend of Moravian,

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about the Anna Nitschmann Society, Moravian's first philanthropic society founded by women for women. It is a group of which I am so proud to have been the first member.

Women are a powerful force in philanthropy today and have been for centuries. Moravian women have been lighting the way for our students through their philanthropic support for over 280 years—this is why we chose to name this Society after Anna Nitschmann, an early female philanthropist who helped guide the vision and raise funds for the Girls School that later became Moravian University.

We launched this Society in 2021 to recognize our female leaders and philanthropists and to inspire the next generation. I am so grateful to our fourteen other members who joined me this year to continue to grow the Anna Nitschmann Endowed Scholarship Fund, which named its first student recipient in fall 2022. I invite you to view a profile on Catherine Lovett ’25. To join us in celebrating our strong female leaders and lighting the way for our students, their future, and the next generation as a member of the Anna Nitschmann Society, please give a membership gift or contact Marissa Zondag ’13, Director of Development, at zondagm@moravian.edu.

Sincerely,

First Lady Lea Grigsby P’22, P’26

Video Introducing the Anna Nitschmann Society

The following video details the legacy of Anna Nitschmann and features First Lady Lea Grigsby P’22, P’26 and Catherine Lovett ’25, inaugural recipient of the Anna Nitschmann Endowed Scholarship.

 

Meet a Student Pioneer Empowered by the Anna Nitschmann Society

The following video spotlights Marie Stella Addo ’24, a student inspired by the members of the Anna Nitschmann Society and their mission.