Building Long-Term Success

The Jaffer Family

Saeed Jaffer ’89 credits his years at Poly with laying a foundation for his subsequent success. In formative years that found him in Pasadena, Pakistan, and Boston, it became increasingly clear to him what an exceptional education he had received at Poly.

Saeed and his wife, Kishwar, now live in Pasadena. As parents to Laila in Poly’s ninth grade and Jamal in seventh grade, they are proud to support the school that continues to benefit their family in many ways.

“Poly is a premier, renowned institution with articulate and bright students,” Saeed Jaffer '89 says. “And investing in its strength is essential to maintain that position and ensure growth in the future.”

The Jaffers believe an essential quality of the Poly experience is the community’s regard for unique individual contributions. They have found an openness to differences that has helped them settle in to Pasadena after many years across the globe. Kishwar grew up in Pakistan and met Saeed while they both attended MIT, and they remained in Boston for 14 years. She was uncertain whether moving even farther west to California would be the right choice.

“My kids have been the only Muslims in their class at most of their schools, including Poly,” Kishwar says. “Here they feel they can share their differences, tell others about it openly. I really appreciate that.”

Each member of the Jaffer family values multiple areas of involvement at Poly—both kids have loved the challenge of outdoor trips and participate enthusiastically on athletic teams; Kishwar joins Poly friends in a regular hiking group and a book group; and Saeed serves as a Poly trustee.

When Saeed sees Poly students in his dermatology practice, he and the rest of his staff are impressed by their confident and well-mannered interaction with adults. He appreciates such reminders of what a positive force the school is. “Poly is a premier, renowned institution with articulate and bright students,” Saeed says. “And investing in its strength is essential to maintain that position and ensure growth in the future.”