Forward Together Comprehensive Campaign Update

As we approach achieving FWCD’s campaign goals, which began in 2018 with a new strategic plan and priorities—increasing the endowment, improving our athletic fields, increasing the FWCD Fund (the School’s annual fund), and building a new state-of-the-art Lower School – there is great excitement and genuine gratitude for the many volunteers and donors who share the vision for the next 60-plus years. Pictured at right are Rob Semple ’95, Brian Crumley ’92, Heather Senter, William Butler ’96 and Helen Todora. 

Through the investment of time, energy and commitment to their school, the Forward Together Comprehensive Campaign Steering Committee has achieved a remarkable milestone in fundraising history for FWCD – $40+ million, 300+ donors – to achieve these goals. Led by William Butler ’96, Heather and Ryan Senter, and Gloria Moncrief Holmsten ’00, with the support of many volunteers and investments by Falcon families, alumni, Trustees, faculty and staff, the enhanced athletic fields have welcomed FWCD student-athletes and rival teams; the new Lower School will open its doors in January 2025; and the endowment now has additional new funds to support tuition assistance, student activities, professional development, as well as general budget support. The FWCD Fund has seen annual increases both in terms of donors and overall gift results.

In addition to the Comprehensive Campaign Steering Committee, the tireless work of two volunteer-led committees—Lower School Champions, guided by Helen and Michael Todora, and Public Phase Champions, guided by Heather and Ryan Senter—provided invaluable leadership in securing gifts for the Lower School and endowment. The athletic fields enhancements project was successful due to the leadership of Venessa and Robert Howard and Bryan King.

Current and future Falcons and their families are the beneficiaries of the Forward Together Campaign. FWCD will continue to provide leading-edge academic and cocurricular programs because of the commitment and belief in the School by these generous and giving donors.

Comprehensive Campaign Steering Committee

• William Butler ’96, Organization and Operations Chair
• Gloria (Moncrief) Holmsten ’00 and Bryan King, Leadership Gifts Co-chairs
• Heather and Ryan Senter, Public Phase Co-chairs
• Gantt Bumstead
• Randy Eisenman ’93
• Stephen Luskey ’01
• Rob Semple ’95
• Heather and Ryan Senter
• Helen and Michael Todora

Lower School Champions

• Helen and Michael Todora, Co-chairs
• Claire and Joseph Berkes ’98
• Anne Carvalho
• Larkin and Richard McMillan
• Mary (Hallman) ’03 and Dwayne Smith

Public Phase Champions

• Heather and Ryan Senter, Co-chairs
• Claire and Joseph Berkes ’98
• Leigh (Taylor) ’95 and Michael Bornitz
• Haddy and Edward Manuel
• Larkin and Richard McMillan
• Carol and Vern Spurlock
• Jerry and James Taylor
• Joy Ann and Bob Havran
• Reid Shackleford ’93
• Asad Dean ’90
• Katy Rhodes Magruder ’98
• Dan Bloch H’06

Athletic Fields Champions

• Venessa and Robert Howard
• Bryan King