Meet the New Parent Co-Chairs of the Fund For Ravenscroft

Lower School parents Lauren Carlton ’08, a Ravenscroft alum, and Shannon Gill, a former school principal, say they both knew that in choosing Ravenscroft for their children “we were making one of the most important decisions that would guide and impact their lives. We carefully considered all the attributes that would mold and develop our children as lifelong learners and members of a thriving school community.”

They also knew they wanted to engage in volunteer roles that supported positive outcomes for not only their students but the entire community. It is in this spirit of servant leadership that each of them decided to accept the opportunity to become the new Fund For Ravenscroft parent co-chairs. As the fall giving season for the fund gets underway this week, they share with us both why they chose Ravenscroft and why they’re committed to supporting the annual giving fund as parent co-chairs.

Why We Chose Ravenscroft

My husband, Ryan, and I chose Ravenscroft for our children because it offers more than just a strong education — it’s a place where every aspect of a child’s development is nurtured. My parents made the decision to send me to Ravenscroft, which fostered my love for fine arts, creative learning and leadership competencies. Ryan and I wanted the same for our children.

What I appreciate most about Ravenscroft is its broad spectrum of opportunities for students to explore and pursue their interests in academics, the arts, sports, leadership and beyond. The school creates an environment where students are encouraged to discover their passions, supported by a community that values personal growth, friendships and leadership as much as academic achievement.

Ravenscroft’s commitment to developing the whole child is what sets it apart. Now that our children are here, we’re continuing a legacy that began with my parents’ choice for me. Ryan and I are proud to be part of a community that supports our children in all areas of their lives, both in and out of the classroom.

 — Lauren Carlton ’08

Ravenscroft’s values of an engaged mind, ethical character and aesthetic appreciation align with those of our family. We especially appreciate the school’s commitment to enhance and cultivate community-minded students. Ravenscroft offers a child-centered approach to education where leadership is taught alongside an enriching and rigorous curriculum. 

The Lead From Here framework nurtures students to be caring and effective leaders. Its curriculum supports leadership effectiveness through synergy and offers students opportunities to observe, practice and recognize traits of being a student leader. The school has woven this framework into the fabric of its mission. 

 — Shannon Gill

Clockwise from top left: Lauren Carlton ’08, Director of the Annual Fund Lyle Farrar, outgoing FFR co-chair Chantelle Fofaria, Assistant Head of School for Institutional Advancement Ben Rein, outgoing FFR co-chair Megan Baldwin and Shannon Gill celebrate the school’s culture of philanthropy at the Leadership Donor Event Sept. 19; student notes detailing why they love Ravenscroft cover a poster at the FFR booth at the Fall Community Event Oct. 4; PreK and Kindergarten parents and students join the FFR team, Head of School Derrick Willard and Edgar the Raven for Little Ravens at Play on Oct. 5.

Why We Support the Fund For Ravenscroft

I became involved with the Fund for Ravenscroft (FFR) because of my passion for philanthropy and my desire to be an active parent at my child’s school. At Ravenscroft, my call to action is amplified through volunteering and giving back in meaningful ways. By contributing to the fund, I can help ensure that every Raven — students, faculty and staff — has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

As a member of the FFR volunteer team, I’ve been able to support the school and its needs directly. Now, as incoming parent co-chair, I’m excited to build camaraderie within the FFR team and continue the important work of advancing the fund's mission. What I enjoy most about this role is the opportunity to help build a culture of giving where every family understands that their contributions are an investment in the future of all Ravens.

I also feel honored to follow in the footsteps of extraordinary leaders like Megan Baldwin and Chantelle Fofaria, who have significantly enhanced the FFR’s mission and grown our school community’s understanding of it. Thanks to the generosity of our community, the fund saw a remarkable 26% increase in contributions during the 2023-24 school year. I’m proud to be part of a team dedicated to ensuring Ravenscroft continues to grow, innovate and provide opportunities for every Raven to explore their passions and achieve their goals.

 — Lauren Carlton ’08

Building upon Ravenscroft’s legacy of excellence while maintaining a focus on the future drives the work of the Fund For Ravenscroft team. As volunteers who are also deeply engaged with the school, we know every donation makes a positive impact. Every dollar makes a difference. Every Raven benefits. Because of this, giving is truly meaningful when you donate to the fund.

Because contributions to the fund are unrestricted,  it provides a critical component in achieving Ravenscroft’s mission and vision. Tuition provides our students a first-class education — and annual giving through the FFR elevates the quality and climate of our school, enhancing the education, enthusiasm and motivation of the Ravenscroft community. 

Giving to the FFR means that teachers will be able to receive relevant professional development, which improves their craft; the benefits of attending quality professional development directly improves the quality of education. Giving to the FFR improves facilities and access to equipment, which enhances our Ravens’ educational experience. Last year’s donations helped fund technology packages for classrooms, basketball goals and campus facilities improvements. The mission and the contributions of our generous community moves Ravenscroft and its strategic plan forward.

I’m proud to support the FFR, both through my volunteer efforts and my annual gift. I hope you’ll join us. 

 — Shannon Gill