Robert F. Hoerle ’52, trustee of Kent School and Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Stone Run Capital, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Seymour Preston Award, presented by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). This distinguished honor recognizes Hoerle’s exceptional dedication and leadership in advancing voluntary support for his alma mater. The award, established in memory of Lawrenceville School trustee Seymour Preston, is presented annually to a trustee who has demonstrated outstanding service to their institution.

Hoerle’s connection to Kent School dates back to his time as a student, from which he graduated in 1952. Since joining the Board of Trustees in 1997, he has been a driving force behind key improvements at the school. In 1999, he established one of Kent’s first endowed faculty chairs, inspiring the creation of 14 more over the years.

As Chair of the Investment Committee from 1999 to 2021, Hoerle guided Kent through economic ups and downs, helping the school’s endowment grow steadily. “Nobody leads by example better than Bob Hoerle,” said Trustee Emeritus Lynn Shipway.

James A. Lawrence, President of the Kent School Board of Trustees, praised Hoerle’s ability to motivate others: “Bob’s vision and leadership inspire everyone around him. He ensures people understand how their support makes a difference for Kent’s students.”

Hoerle’s generosity has left a lasting mark on the campus. In 2012, Kent dedicated Hoerle Hall, which serves as a dormitory and home to expanded art studios. In 2022, he pledged to create an endowed scholarship fund that will support four students each year.

"Bob’s contributions to Kent are remarkable," Head of School Michael G. Hirschfeld highlights Hoerle’s impact. "He has played a vital role in every major initiative over the past several decades. His thoughtful leadership and generosity have made Kent the school it is today.”

The impact of Hoerle's dedication extends to individual faculty members as well. Jenna Lynch, holder of the Robert F. Hoerle 1952 Endowed Chair in the Arts since 2002, praised his ongoing commitment to excellence: "Mr. Robert Hoerle inspires me to be the best teacher and administrator I can be. His interest in the Arts and generosity to Kent School are extraordinary."

As Kent’s current longest-serving trustee, Hoerle continues to lead by example. His dedication reflects Kent’s mission “to contribute to the common good in the world beyond Kent.”