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Why I Give

The Steward School
Dedicated Spartans share what it means to them to support Steward.
The following article originally appeared in the latest issue of The Colonnade.

Katherine Goodpasture, Grade 4 teacher
“Steward helps children grow into who they are meant to be, and it also gives them a safety net
when they fall. The school leaders and this community do that for the teachers too. At Steward, I found a home. I’ve been here for 26 years, which is half the school’s lifetime. While the campus has changed, the spirit is still the same. We are part of a village with children at its heart.”

Kimberlee Magrill, President of the Parents Association and mother of Max ’24 and Jack ’26
“When we decided to move our boys to Steward, we were looking for an educational community that would help them find and build their love of learning and grow to be the best versions of themselves. Not having attended an independent school, I was worried about our family finding our spot, our people. We have found not only an academic home for our boys but also a community for our family. When I am on campus, I am embraced by joy and enthusiasm. I am proud to work with a tight network of volunteers as part of the Parents Association, who support and encourage each other, build community, show appreciation for our faculty and staff, and raise funds to support the development of our biggest asset, our children.”

Jen Vermaaten, Parents Association Treasurer-Elect and mother of Sarah ’25
“Prior to having my daughter, I was a type-A career person. It was where I focused my energy, but it wasn’t my passion. As a Parents Association volunteer, I have found purpose. Community service is fulfilling and I typically get back more than I give. The time I spend showing faculty and staff that they are appreciated is so well worth it. I’m setting an example for my daughter about the importance of gratitude, as well as making a difference to so many others at Steward.”

Chuck Wingfield, President of the Spartan Club and father of Chase ’23, Spencer ’25, and Mason ’31
 “It takes a village. It’s important for parents to be a part of their children’s educational journey, and I’m grateful to have the time and ability to help. We have a wonderful faculty and staff that do so much for the school, but we also need parents to participate. The school welcomes volunteers with open arms. It’s such a rewarding experience to be a part of your children’s lives in this way.”

Jane duFrane and Doug Pera, Mom and Bonus Dad to Lucie ’25 and Gray ’25; Jane is a member of the Board of Trustees
“These are important years for our children, and we know that tuition alone doesn’t create the Steward experience. Professionally, we are both in businesses where we reinvest capital to maintain relevance to our clients and colleagues and to create a platform for sustainable growth. It’s the same for Steward. We believe in the school and its vision, so we invest in it. Giving is not only about today but also about building a legacy. We want Steward to be there for our children’s children, their friends and their children, and the whole community long-term. Lucie and Gray wouldn’t have the experience they’re having if people hadn’t given generously in the past. We feel called to uphold that tradition.”
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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