Frequently Asked Questions

List of 9 frequently asked questions.

• What does Steward's endowment support?

  The Steward School’s endowment is managed by Spider Management and is valued at approximately $25 million as of Fall 2024. Steward’s endowment helps fund initiatives of significant impact, such as Variable Tuition, merit scholarships, health & wellness programming, and programming in the Bryan Innovation Lab, as well as supporting the annual budget. Traditionally, independent schools depend on both tuition and endowment for operating funds, and Steward is thankful for the community that supports our school. If you have questions about how you can support the endowment, contact the Development Office via email or by phone at (804) 740-3394.

• How can I make a gift?

  You can support Steward by making a gift of cash, appreciated assets, or bequests. To make a gift online, go to our secure online giving form. Gifts may also be pledged monthly, quarterly, or in one single payment. To make a gift by mail, please send it to the Development Department, The Steward School, 11600 Gayton Road, Richmond, VA, 23238. The school’s fiscal year begins July 1 and closes June 30.

• Will my company match my gift to The Steward School?

  Many companies have matching gift opportunities available for their employees, retirees, and families. Taking advantage of these programs can double or sometimes triple your gift to Steward. Discover if your company will match your gift.

• Why is my participation important?

  While we rely on the generosity of leadership gifts, please know that every gift — no matter the amount — is needed and important. At any level, participation demonstrates your commitment to The Steward School. Your contribution generates enthusiasm and encourages others to join you in celebrating and supporting Steward.
  
  Also, foundations and corporations view fundraising participation as a key benchmark of institutional strength. Before these organizations will consider donating their dollars to The Steward School, they want to know that the Steward community supports the school’s mission.

• Who can I contact if I have a question about my giving, need a duplicate receipt, or want to see if I have paid my pledge?

  If you have questions about giving, need a printed receipt, or would like to inquire if you have paid your pledge, contact the Development Office via email or by phone at (804) 740-3394, ext. 2306.

• What is Annual Giving?

  The Annual Fund is the backbone of the development program at Steward. Steward strives to minimize tuition, which covers the basic costs for operating the school. Gifts to the Annual Fund, along with revenue from the school’s endowment investment, are vital pieces of our operating budget and can provide books for classrooms, supplies for the arts program, uniforms for athletics, technology for the Bryan Innovation Lab, increased tuition assistance and so much more! 

  
  We encourage all members of our community to participate in giving to the Annual Fund in any capacity. Your support is an expression of your belief in Steward’s mission. 

• Can I designate my gift for a specific purpose?

  Yes! We encourage you to direct your gift to a program that is meaningful to you. 
  

  • Annual Fund Family of Funds: You can give to the portion of the Annual Fund that means the most to you. You can designate to Athletics, Fine Arts, Technology, Tuition Assistance, or Professional Development. To designate your gift, click here. 
  • You may support specific scholarships, awards, and programs like the Alumni Legacy Scholarship, Debbie Robson Merit Scholarship, Ingrid Moore Champions of Play Award, or Latino Education Advancement Program (LEAP).

  If you would like to support a specific program at Steward, such as the Bryan Innovation Lab, please contact the Development office at Development@stewardschool.org or (804) 740-3394, ext. 2304.

• How can I make a stock transfer?

  If you would like to enjoy the tax advantages of making a gift of stock to Steward, please click here for stock transfer information.

• Does Steward have giving levels?

  Every gift is greatly valued and deeply appreciated. Steward’s giving levels consider gifts of any amount, from $1 to more than $10,000.
  
  

  • Helen Dixon Circle -$10,000 and above*
  • Headmaster's Circle - $5,000 to $9,999*
  • Steward Society - $2,500 to $4,999*
  • 1972 Society - $1,972 to $2,499*
  • Spartan Society - $1,000 to $1,971*
  • Corinthian Club - $500 to $999
  • Gold - $250 to $499
  • Blue - $100 to $249
  • Patron - Up to $99

  *Denotes Founders Society: Members of the Society are distinguished by their unrestricted gift of $1,000 or more to the Annual Giving Campaign and are recognized at an annual reception.