January 2008 marked the beginning of a new phase of the capital campaign. The first phase involved the planning, solicitation of lead gifts, financing, and the actual renovation and construction. Many have seen and experienced first-hand the amazing transformation of our historic school building. With tremendous dedicated effort, Cathy Broderick and Thayer McMillan led the charge for this successful first phase of the campaign. The second phase, which officially kicked off on February 5 at the State of the School meeting, will complete the fund raising portion of the campaign. The entire Academy community will be asked to participate in this challenge. 

Connie Demkowicz and Joe DiMauro will lead the second phase of the campaign as Community Leadership Co-Chairs. Over the next four months you will be contacted by them or a member of the capital campaign committee and asked to thoughtfully consider a transforming pledge.

Following are answers to commonly asked questions about the campaign.

What is the difference between the Annual Fund and the Capital Campaign?
Like other nationally renowned independent schools, the Academy keeps tuition lower than the actual cost of an education to make it affordable to a greater number of students. Tuition revenue covers only 80% of the school’s annual expenses. Supporters are asked to give each year to the Annual Fund to help support the programs that provide the Academy advantage.

The Tradition and Tomorrow capital campaign is a one time special effort. The main school building and campus have been the focal points of the campaign.  In addition to the renovations, continuing to grow the Academy’s endowment is a priority of the campaign.  There is still much work to be done to complete the funding of the campaign and we need the support of the entire Academy community to continue to make this a long-term success.

What do you mean by the terms "leadership gifts" or "transforming gifts?"
We ask that each member of the Academy community thoughtfully consider how they can take a meaningful role in this campaign. Your participation is an expression of your commitment to continued excellence at the Academy. Like the many supporters who have come years before us, it is our turn to leave our legacy for future generations. Each personal contribution will vary, and all are significant.
If we make a pledge to the capital campaign, when is the payment due?

Many families are choosing to take advantage of the option to pay their pledge commitment over five years. You can choose the amount of payment and timing over the five years to make it most convenient to you and your family.

How will we be recognized?
Each pledge or gift will be recognized in a variety of ways. All gifts will be listed in upcoming capital campaign reports, annual reports and special mailings. Gifts of $25,000 or more will also be recognized on a donor wall, which will be placed in the front quad entrance of the main school building. Installation of the donor wall is targeted for early May, before the Action Auction. The wall is designed in a manner that offers flexibility to add names as pledges are received.  In addition to the donor wall, donations of $50,000 or more have naming opportunities for classrooms and other areas. Please contact the Advancement Department for a complete listing.

We are more than half way to the capital campaign goal of $12 million. We need your help now more than ever to close out the campaign. Please consider a gift to honor the past and define the future of The Grosse Pointe Academy.