Approximately 200 of Ravenscroft’s dedicated supporters came together on Thursday, Sept. 25, for a vibrant celebration of their ongoing commitment to the school’s mission and students. The annual donor event – Leadership and Loyalty – was hosted by the Advancement Office at the Merrimon-Wynne House in downtown Raleigh. A photo gallery from the event is available here. 

“This event is an opportunity to show our profound gratitude to our families, alumni, board members, and friends,” said Associate Head of School for Advancement Ben Rein. “The contributions of this group have significantly impacted our ability to enhance and expand resources for students, and to make strategic improvements to our beautiful campus.”

The event was an opportunity for Ravenscroft to celebrate three consecutive years of record-breaking levels of annual giving.

Board of Trustees Chair Laura Helton Kalorin ‘92 thanked event attendees for their loyalty to Ravenscroft. In her remarks, she celebrated the school’s unique spirit of community. Kalorin highlighted how that strong sense of community has nurtured the growth of multiple generations of her own family – in addition to being an alumna, she is the proud parent of two current students and a recent Ravenscroft graduate.

Following Kalorin’s remarks, Head of School Derrick Willard focused on the leadership of those in the room and the essential role of their generosity. “For the last decade Ravenscroft has set itself apart from peer day schools across the country in training its students to be citizen leaders,” Willard said. “Students are taught 15 competencies in order to lead self, with others, and to lead in order to change the world. We are here to thank you for helping change the world.”  

Willard noted that unrestricted giving allows Ravenscroft to be nimble in a time when schools must be able to respond quickly to meet student needs, especially relative to new technologies. As Ravenscroft continues to grow and evolve, the unwavering commitment of its donor community remains a cornerstone of the school’s mission to prepare students to thrive in a complex and interdependent world. 

The Leadership and Loyalty event was more than a celebration; it provided a vital opportunity for members of the community to gather in fellowship, reinforcing the strong bonds that define the Ravenscroft experience.

Looking Ahead

Generous support of the Fund For Ravenscroft – the school’s annual unrestricted fund and highest giving priority each year – enables the school to accelerate its impact on the student experience and campus life. Improvements to the Kindergarten Center, new playground equipment, and advanced microscopes and equipment in science classrooms are examples of the work supported by our community’s gifts to the Fund For Ravenscroft.

October marks the beginning of the 2025-26 Season of Giving for the Fund For Ravencroft. Please contact Director of the Annual Fund Lyle Farrar to learn more about how your support can make the greatest impact.