$500K Raised For Scholarships At North Shore Country Day Benefit

WINNETKA, IL — The North Shore Country Day community gathered last week for the 2026 Benefit for Scholarships, raising nearly half a million dollars for student scholarships.

Co-chaired by Rachel Cannon and Atour Sargon, the event focused on expanding access to a North Shore education. With nearly $500,000 raised, this year's benefit is one of the most successful in the school’s 107-year history. The funds will directly support scholarships for current and future students.

“What motivated me to take on the role of co-chair was a deep belief in our school’s mission and in the power of education to change lives,” Sargon said. “The scholarship program ensures that deserving students have access to the opportunities our school provides, regardless of financial circumstances. That’s something I care deeply about.”

Cannon described North Shore Country Day as “a jewel on the North Shore” and a “wonderful home away from home” for her children.

The event featured a cocktail reception with food stations and various raffle opportunities. Guests participated in a wine and whiskey pull, a Labubu spin-to-win, and gift basket and golden ticket raffles. A limited number of tickets were also available for a KOVAL Distillery tour.

Live auction packages included a week at the Four Seasons Punta Mita, an in-home celebrity chef experience, a Cubs dream day, a golf club crawl, and an ultimate Chicago sports package.

“We worked hard to make this year’s Benefit more accessible by including a variety of ways people could donate to the school,” she said. Larger gifts secured by the committee contributed to the record total.