Saddle River Day School proudly announces the groundbreaking of the Dr. Kristen Walsh Hall of Science and Entrepreneurship, a 33,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility providing 21st-century spaces and learning tools to support innovative new programming and an expanding curriculum. The ceremony, held on February 28th, marks a significant milestone in the school’s commitment to educational excellence and student success.
The new Hall of Science and Entrepreneurship will serve as a hub for Upper School students, with cutting-edge science labs, collaborative workspaces, AI-driven educational environments, and specialty learning spaces. Designed to foster innovation, entrepreneurship and hands-on learning, the facility aligns with the school’s vision of transforming the campus of today to build the leaders of tomorrow. The event also celebrated the generosity of donors who made this transformative project possible through the school’s Building the Future capital campaign.
Head of School Jalaj Desai opened the ceremony with heartfelt gratitude to Saddle River Day’s supporters, especially the Walsh family, saying: “This is not just a building; it is the beginning of something extraordinary. To the Walsh family, we extend our deepest appreciation. Your passion for education and commitment to empowering the next generation are truly inspiring. This hall will bear your name, but more importantly, it will reflect your spirit and unwavering belief that every child should have the opportunity to explore, grow, and achieve greatness.”
Dr. Kristen Walsh’s husband, Francis J. Walsh III, was joined by their son Francis J. Walsh IV, who added: “Education has always been at the heart of our family’s mission. We firmly believe that knowledge is the foundation of opportunity, and opportunity is what allows young minds to dream, innovate, and shape a better future. This school is more than just a new building; it is a symbol of hope, learning, and the boundless potential of every student who walks through its doors. Our greatest wish is that each student who studies here feels empowered to chase their dreams, overcome challenges, and make a meaningful impact on the world." Saddle River’s Mayor, Albert Kurpis, spoke of the “symbiotic partnership between the school and the Saddle River community” and the “lasting impact that the school would have for years to come.” Building and Grounds Committee Chair and Trustee Bryan Hekemian ‘83 expressed his gratitude for the impact the school had on his life when he attended. Finally, SRDS Board President Weston Powell issued a call to action for the future sustainability and growth of SRDS as an “exceptional institution.”
The Dr. Kristen Walsh Hall of Science and Entrepreneurship is expected to open in the Fall of 2026, and will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Saddle River Day School as it continues to grow and innovate.
Saddle River Day School
Pre-K3 to Grade 12
147 Chestnut Ridge Road • Saddle River, NJ 07458 • Tel: 201.327.4050
About Saddle River Day School
Established in 1957, Saddle River Day School is a Pre-K3 through grade 12, co-ed, independent school serving just under 600 students. The school provides a robust curriculum and inspires students to achieve academic and personal excellence by teaching them how to think and not what to think. Each division (Lower PreK3-4th; Middle 5th-8th; Upper 9th-12th) offers a signature yearlong research program.
Saddle River Day also offers 30+ advanced placement and honors level courses, a full range of visual and performing arts as well as interscholastic athletics (grades 6th-12th), and highly individualized college counseling to encourage students to discover their passions and prepare them for whatever comes next. SRDS graduates are thriving at colleges like Duke, Columbia, Cornell, Georgetown, Johns Hopkins, NYU, Northwestern, Villanova and Wake Forest.
For more information about the project or Saddle River Day School, please visit saddleriverday.org.
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