Rogerson Communities today mourns the loss of a trusted leader, faithful supporter, and beloved friend, Brit d’Arbeloff. Brit, who served on Rogerson’s Board of Directors since 2004, including more than a decade as Chair, was one of the organization’s most influential strategic leaders. In the words of another past Board Chair, John Cupples, “she elevated the aspirations of the organization and encouraged us to think big.”

That big thinking resulted in Rogerson growing from 11 communities in 2004 to 21 communities today, and from 750 to 1,500 homes. Brit helped guide this expansion beyond Greater Boston into southeastern Massachusetts and Worcester. In short, Rogerson would not be the organization it is today without her expertise, wisdom, and stewardship.

Brit’s leadership extended far beyond governance. She was a highly respected relationship-builder, mentor, and philanthropic leader who strengthened Rogerson’s donor community and institutional culture. By connecting the organization with new supporters and talented leaders year after year, she multiplied the force of her dedication to Rogerson, as well as the resulting benefits.

Brit was a truly transformational donor and the most generous individual donor in Rogerson’s history. Notably, in 2024, Brit pledged $500,000 for the redevelopment of Rogerson House, building initial momentum for a critical project in Jamaica Plain. The community room at the new Rogerson House will be named in her honor.

In 2019, then-governor Charlie Baker presented her with the Charles E. Rogerson Award at Welcome Home in recognition of her selfless commitment to dignity, community, aging services, and compassionate care.

Beyond Rogerson, Brit was a true renaissance woman whose accomplishments across the arts and sciences are nothing short of incredible. The first woman to obtain a mechanical engineering degree from Stanford University, as well as one of the first to earn a master’s degree from MIT, she built a career in software programming when women were almost unheard of in the field. In the realm of the humanities, Brit was an enthusiastic art collector, accomplished multi-instrumental musician, as well as Chair of the MIT Council for the Arts.

Perhaps most of all, Brit was a dear friend who will be sorely missed by the family, friends, and colleagues whose lives she touched.

“For more than two decades, Rogerson was extremely fortunate to have Brit’s devotion to our mission,” says Board Chair Mary Jeka. “She never wavered in stepping up to help older adults receive the housing and services they deserved. She leaves a legacy of compassion and service to our community that is a model for future generations.”

Past Board Chair John Cupples shares, “Brit exhibited a joie de vivre wherever she went and with whomever she interacted. From Brit’s perspective, everyone she encountered was her friend. A true polymath—engineer, mother, generous philanthropist—her fame never overran her interest in meeting and encouraging new friends.”

“Brit was the warmest person, she really cared deeply about people. Older adults had a special place in her heart. Our community is a better one because of her commitment to the public good,” says President and CEO Walter Ramos. “Though we mourn the loss of a steadfast champion and friend, her life remains an inspiration in our work. She has set an example that is needed now more than ever. She will be missed by many, but her legacy will be longstanding.”