Honoring a Century of Panther Pride
From humble beginnings to a powerful alumni legacy, Overbrook High School’s story is one of vision, leadership, and lasting community impact.
Our Roots
Where It All Began
In 1988, Overbrook High School alumnus and teacher Fred Rosenfeld (Class of 1963) met with then-principal Dr. Diane Scott to discuss the school’s remarkable athletic heritage and the need for a stronger alumni presence. Out of that conversation came the vision for the Overbrook High School Athletic Alumni Association (OHSAAA), created to celebrate excellence, honor achievement, and support future generations.
With seed funding from Dr. Scott and the passion of alumni volunteers, Coach Rosenfeld, affectionately known as “Mr. Rose”, began rallying graduates through word of mouth and community outreach. Billboards across Philadelphia soon invited former Panthers to reconnect and help build what would become a proud tradition of alumni leadership.
A Proud Beginning
The Birth of a Legacy
As word spread, more than one hundred enthusiastic alumni gathered for the very first OHSAAA meeting. It was a joyful reunion filled with laughter, memories, and purpose. That gathering marked the beginning of an enduring legacy of giving back.
A founding Board of Directors soon formed, creating committees and outreach programs that expanded Overbrook’s influence beyond athletics into academics, mentorship, and scholarships.
“We built more than an association. We built a bridge between generations.”
Honoring Our Achievements
Celebrating Excellence
In 1991, OHSAAA held its first Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in the packed Overbrook auditorium. Legendary athlete Wilt Chamberlain (Class of 1955) led the inaugural class, joined by Jackie Moore (Class of 1950), Ira Davis (Class of 1954), and Cliff Calvert (Class of 1932).
Since then, more than ninety inductees have been honored, and their plaques proudly line the second-floor marble hallway of “The Brook.” The annual induction ceremonies, along with the Sam Cozen Golf Tournament organized by Howie Horenstein, have generated over $100,000 in scholarships for graduating seniors.
Building Our Future
Growing Into a Lasting Institution
As the mission expanded, the organization evolved into the Overbrook High School Alumni Association (OHSAA). Its purpose grew to include academic and community initiatives that continued to strengthen Overbrook’s presence in the city.
Leadership passed through many dedicated hands, from founder Fred Rosenfeld (Class of 1963) to pioneers such as MacArthur Littles (Class of 1968) and Janine Hill Gant (Class of 1978), and onward to Interim President Deborah Weeks Coleman (Class of 1971) and Current President Patricia Mathis (Class of 1972). Each leader carried forward the same spirit of purpose and service that began decades earlier.
Making a Difference
Our Impact at a Glance
Scholarships Awarded
Hall of Fame Inductees
Annual Hall of Fame Ceremonies
Active Alumni Members
OHSAA’s impact continues to grow each year through programs that support students, celebrate alumni, and foster lifelong connection.
Building Our Future
Guided by Purpose and Pride
OHSAA envisions a strong network of alumni dedicated to advancing Overbrook’s mission of excellence. Together we honor the past, empower the present, and inspire tomorrow’s leaders.
Through volunteerism, mentorship, and community engagement, alumni remain deeply connected to Overbrook’s success and the legacy it represents.
“Together, we carry forward the values that make Overbrook exceptional — honoring our past, empowering our present, and shaping a brighter future for generations to come.”
Continuing the Tradition
Be Part of the Legacy
Join the Overbrook High School Alumni Association as we continue to build bridges between generations through mentorship, scholarships, and community service.