Support

Endowments

Nowhere is one’s loyalty to Harding Academy more clearly demonstrated than through the establishment of an Endowed Fund. By creating an Endowed Fund you have ensured that future generations will continue to share in your commitment to Harding’s educational excellence.

List of 8 frequently asked questions.

What is an Endowed Fund?

An endowed fund is held in perpetuity, invested wisely and counted as part of the school’s overall endowment. The interest generated by an endowment fund is utilized for whatever purpose the principal donor wishes within the school’s guidelines. An endowed fund is unique in that most often the principal is conserved. Endowment Funds are usually “memorial” (in memory of a loved one who has passed away) or “honorary” (in honor of a living individual.)
How much must I donate to endow a fund?

A memorial or honorary fund can be established with a contribution of any dollar amount, but a fund must accumulate a minimum of $25,000 (cash) to be activated and become permanently endowed.
Can I add to the Fund over a period of years?

Absolutely. While a fund becomes activated when it reaches the $25,000 level, it can and often does grow to levels much greater than that amount.
Can I make gifts other than cash?

Yes. While cash gifts are the most common, gifts of appreciated securities are also welcome, and can provide some very attractive tax benefits as well. For more information about gifts of this kind, please contact the Director of Advancement at Harding Academy.
How would my Fund be named?

The principal donor makes the decision regarding a named fund. Some examples of named funds currently in existence at Harding Academy include The Dr. Jerry S. Sutton Memorial Scholarship Fund, and The Sarah Frances Mudter Fine Arts Endowment.
Do I determine how the interest from my Fund will be used?

In conversations with the school, the principal donor to each Endowed Fund helps to determine how the interest is to be used. Options include the support of current and future facilities, programs, professional development, and scholarship initiatives, all of which help to keep tuition affordable.
Why is Harding Academy’s Endowment so important?

As with every independent school, Harding is fully responsible for its own financial affairs. This responsibility also demands that Harding carry on the ethical stewardship of its traditions, facilities and financial resources. The endowment is Harding’s hedge against inflation. It is also what enables Harding to continue in its mission to educate and inspire young people to become thoughtful, creative, lifelong learners and self-disciplined, responsible caring citizens.
How do I begin?

Simply call Harding Academy’s Office of Advancement and ask to speak with the Director about setting up an Endowment Fund. She will meet with you to discuss all of the possible options and to devise a structure that meets your needs and those of your family.

We hope you will consider creating a named endowment or make a gift to an existing endowment. For information, please contact Director of Advancement and Marketing, Ruthie Huggins at 615-387-6329.

List of 11 frequently asked questions.

The Harding Academy General Endowment Fund

The Harding Academy General Endowment Fund was established to support the long-term financial stability of the school. A portion of net annual earnings may be used when needed for operations.
The Black Family Scholarship Fund

The Black Family Scholarship Fund was established in 2005. This endowed scholarship is based on financial need.
The Ed and Hettie Stuart Endowment

Recognizing that the strength of any great school lies largely in the members of the faculty and staff, The Ed and Hettie Stuart Endowment was established in December 2007 to endow a fund to recognize any members of the faculty or staff who have gone above and beyond in their service to the school.
Harding Academy Hall of Fame Endowment

Harding Academy established the Harding Academy Hall of Fame Endowment in March 2009 to honor the legacy of outstanding alumni who have made a significant distinction or achievement in their chosen field. Funds generated from this endowment will be used to provide permanent funding and support for the Hall of Fame and their area of recognition.
The Andrew Potanin Award

This award is presented each year at graduation to an eighth grade student who, in the opinion of the Harding faculty, shows potential in creative writing pursuits. The award is not based on academic honor or achievement; rather, it is presented to a student who possesses great interest and promise in his ability to express himself in poetry or short story format. This award was established in memory of Andrew Potanin, Class of 1981.
The Caldwell Scholarship Fund for Minority Students

This fund was initiated in 1982, by Dr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Caldwell III and named in honor of his father, Mr. Tom Caldwell. This scholarship is awarded to a minority student from an economically disadvantaged family.
The Don Schwartz Distinguished Educator Program

Harding Academy’s tradition of excellence includes leadership by the late Donald S. Schwartz, who served as head of school from 1997-2006. His tremendous contributions to the school included bringing guest educators to campus to inspire our community’s continuous learning about new and effective educational approaches. In his memory this program annually brings a distinguished educator to Harding to speak to the faculty, board, students, and parents.
The Dr. Jerry S. Sutton Memorial Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in 1989 in honor of the late Dr. Jerry S. Sutton by his wife Barbara. Each year it will be awarded to a student that has been determined in need of financial aid.
The Geraldine Swystun English Award (former teacher)

This award is given at graduation to the eighth grade student who has displayed a desire and an exceptional ability to communicate through the spoken and written word. He/she has developed outstanding skills in expository and creative writing.
The Margaret Brownlee Scholarship Fund

The Margaret Brownlee Scholarship Fund was established in 1987 in honor of Miss Margaret Brownlee, a beloved Harding teacher who passed away in 1986. This endowed scholarship fund honors Miss Brownlee and her devotion to her students during her tenure at Harding Academy. The scholarship, based on financial need is directed toward students in the upper elementary grades.
The Sarah Frances Mudter Fine Arts Endowment

Established in April 2004 and made possible through a bequest by Sarah Frances Mudter, this endowment provides support for the fine arts.