Story #59: PBHA Celebrates in 100th Anniversary in 2000

On January 23, 2000, PBHA commemorated its 100th anniversary, gathering 75 students, donors, and affiliates to rededicate the historic building. This momentous occasion coincided with the original dedication of Phillips Brooks House (PBH) on the same date in 1900, where hundreds gathered to honor the ideals of "piety, charity, and hospitality."

Phillips Brooks, a Harvard alumnus from the Class of 1855, was a distinguished Episcopal preacher and later became the bishop of the Protestant Episcopal Church in Massachusetts. At the inaugural ceremony, Robert Treat Paine, Chair of the Building Committee, articulated the purpose of PBH: “to increase the study of holy things and to make the worship of God an essential part of the life of all.”

During the anniversary celebration, Robert Treat Paine Storer ’45, great-grandson of Paine, reflected on his family’s connection to Phillips Brooks and highlighted the importance of religion in his own life. He remarked, “I think PBH was dedicated to increase the religious spirit of Harvard,” emphasizing the role of the 1,700 student volunteers in embodying the Judeo-Christian creed of treating others with kindness.

The event featured a cake shaped like Phillips Brooks House, courtesy of Alden Merrell Cheesecake Company, and a powerful speech by Reverend Peter J. Gomes, Plummer Professor of Christian Morals. Gomes reminded attendees of Brooks’ enduring spirit, noting that PBH was meant to be more than a building; it was to serve as a living memorial of ideals expressed through action.

Natalie Guerrier ’01, the incoming president of PBHA, highlighted the organization’s commitment to public service and social justice. Despite PBHA’s evolution into a secular organization, she noted that it continues to fulfill the building's original mission. Charity D. Shumway ’01, the incoming programming co-chair, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The greater good is our mission.”

For many students, involvement in PBHA has profoundly impacted their lives. Priscilla Chan ’01, the incoming programming co-chair, shared, “I’m going to teach after I graduate because of PBHA. It’s shaped my whole life.”

Read more about this historic celebration here.