The Whitfield Fund

Faculty member Curtis Erlinger working with a student during an art class

Without widespread support from our community, the school would not have the resources needed to provide the uncompromising academic and character education Whitfield families and students expect.

Every Gift Makes a Difference.

The Whitfield Fund is sustained by gifts of every size, at every level. Every gift counts, no matter the size. In fact, in 2020-2021 gifts of $10 - $999 added up to $104,000, making a direct and immediate impact on our students and school. The “Gap”: Tuition alone does not cover the cost of a Whitfield education. The school relies on charitable gifts to cover this gap of roughly $3,000 per student—and asks every family to consider making a “Gap” gift. We know that some families cannot make a gift of this size, and others can give so much more. We ask you to make a gift that is right for your family—every gift makes a difference.

When our families make a gift to The Whitfield Fund, they demonstrate to the community that they are invested in this school.

THE WHITFIELD FUND INITIATIVES

Faculty member Rachel Gassner working with students during class

Fall Campaign

Each fall, we kick off the school year by revealing our annual fundraising theme and call for mass support from our Trustees, faculty, staff, current parents, parents of alumni, grandparents and alumni. Funds raised are used within the year they are received; our fiscal year runs from July 1st - June 30th.

Trinity Hodges '18 and her family after the Class of 2018 commencement ceremony

Proud Parent Project

The Proud Parent Project is a giving program launched in 2018 designed to give our families with seniors an opportunity to celebrate their students’ Whitfield experiences. This special project is an important component of the Whitfield Fund—these stretch gifts provide critical financial support while honoring our senior class.

Faculty member Sari Rotskoff, Class of 2000, in her classroom

Honor Project

The heartbeat of Whitfield is its exceptional faculty and staff that dedicates itself to bringing learning to life. The Honor Project was established to pay tribute to these extraordinary men and women. Contributions are voluntary but serve as an alternative to holiday gifts for teachers; tribute gifts are collected through this fund and in part underwrite a present for each faculty member. All monies exceeding the cost of these presents are allocated to the Whitfield Fund, nearly 60% of which supports our outstanding faculty and staff.

Green & White Gala

Honoring the legacies of Head of School John Delautre and long-time faculty member Sheila McCarthy for their years of service and tremendous contributions to the Whitfield Community.

Learn more about the Green & White Gala

Trivia Night

This fun casual game night is attended by Whitfield parents, alumni, parents of alumni, and friends. The event takes place on Whitfield’s campus. Proceeds from this annual event support the Whitfield Fund.

Learn more about Trivia Night

Members of the Class of 2019 holding their diplomas and roses after commencement

Senior Giving Program

As they approach graduation, members of the senior class are called to make a multi-year pledge in commemoration of their time at Whitfield. Launched with the Class of 2019, 32 members (44%) pledged their support of $20.19 over five years, for a total gift of $100.95 in support of Whitfield’s annual fund.

The varsity dance team during their performance at the Homecoming Pep Rally

Give STL Day

Each May Whitfield participates in Give STL Day. This 24-hour, online day of giving facilitated by the St. Louis Community Foundation is designed to ignite the spirit of giving across the region. This day is a powerful opportunity to show your commitment to our school and to inspire others to give.

YOUR GIFTS SUPPORT

Faculty

Nearly 60% of the school’s operating budget is dedicated to salaries and benefits for our outstanding faculty, coaches and staff.

Facilities

We are dedicated to providing our students with a safe, innovative, and dynamic learning environment.

Athletics

Gifts to the Whitfield Fund underwrite equipment, uniforms, and resources needed to ensure our students athletes are competitive and safe.

Arts

Our robust visual and performing arts programs give students critical outlets for creativity and self-discovery.

Access

With our commitment to economic diversity, more than 30% of our student body receives some level of financial aid.

FAQs

What is the Whitfield Fund?

The Whitfield Fund, our annual fund, is the collection of charitable contributions made by members of the Whitfield community: Trustees, alumni, parents of alumni, current families, friends, faculty and staff. These unrestricted gifts are the lifeblood of the school. They are flexible and available for immediate use to cover what tuition does not. Each year, contributions to the Whitfield Fund constitute at least 14% of Whitfield’s operating budget.

Why should I support the Whitfield Fund?

How much should I give?

Tuition alone does not cover the cost of a Whitfield education. The school relies on charitable gifts to cover this gap of roughly $3,000 per student—and asks every family to consider making a gift of $3,000. However, we know that some families cannot make a gift of this size, and others can give so much more. We ask you to make a gift that is right for your family—every gift makes a difference.

Director of Development

Make a Gift

Major Gifts

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