Kathy Gerdon and Steve Archer: Longtime Support Borne of Love of Community

Kathy Gerdon Archer (’03) and her husband, longtime trustee Stephen C. Archer believe that supporting Montserrat is a way to support their hometown of Beverly.

Kathy said, “I am awfully proud to be an alumna of Montserrat because I see what the college has given to the city. Years ago the city was looking rather sad and the college (which moved downtown from North Beverly in 1992) brought new life and excitement.”

Steve agrees. He said, “Beverly was a typical New England industrial town and Montserrat has given us a real vitality – it’s made a real impact. As a Beverly businessman married to an artist who attended Montserrat, I have a double connection to the school and spent 18 years on the board. I recognize how important the students and the Montserrat community are to the downtown. They bring a lot of enthusiasm and energy to the downtown businesses. Well-known artists who visit the college, like James Rosenquist and Edward Burtynsky, share their vision and make a real impact on all of us.” 

For these reasons, and the connections and culture that Montserrat brings, the Archers have been long and steady supporters of the college. 

Steve has assisted the college as a landlord and with the donation of a building (along with former partner Michael Kersker) and Kathy continues to contribute to the college’s annual art auction, Artrageous, the largest fundraising event each year, of which they are also sponsors. They both attend gallery openings and lectures, and Kathy has traveled to Italy with Montserrat, which resulted in connections to some of her dearest lifelong friends.

For the Archers, it makes sense to support such an important cultural asset as Montserrat. 

“The inspiration I received from Montserrat is immeasurable and I am reminded of it often as I continue making art.” Kathy and Steve are also helping young artists in the community. “We love seeing the students working in local businesses in support of their art practice,” she said.

She also recently had a show of her work at one of the newer downtown businesses, Jolie Tea Company. ‘The owner,” she said, “really represents the faith that people have in the city. She is a great example of a business person that understands the importance that culture brings to a community.”