Endowment
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Gifts to endowment provide a permanent source of support for faculty salaries and benefits, financial aid for students demonstrating need, arts, athletic, and academic programs, and the long-term maintenance of our 44-acre campus. Although the specific use may vary greatly, endowment funds have a common objective: to provide support not just for one year, or even one generation, but for all generations. We welcome contributions to the funds below or gifts to establish new funds.
Facts about Harpeth Hall's Endowment
- Harpeth Hall's endowment was $74.1 million as of June 30, 2024.
- The school draws four percent of a rolling three-year average of the endowment value to support expenses in the operating budget each year.
- Creating an endowment allows donors to fulfill their own personal philanthropic goals while helping support the needs and mission of Harpeth Hall.
- Endowments for financial aid support the school’s named scholar program administered by the Office of Admission and Financial Aid.
- Donors may establish a permanent named endowment as a tribute to a family member, faculty member, or for the general support of Harpeth Hall.
- Endowed funds may be named with a gift of $150,000.
Learn about our Endowment Funds
- Financial Aid Funds
- Faculty Support Funds
- General Endowment Funds
- Program Funds
- Endowments Held by Others
Financial Aid Funds
The Adeline Fund
The Adeline Fund was established anonymously in 2017 by Harpeth Hall parents in honor of their daughter to provide funding for girls who demonstrate financial need so that they may participate fully in the life of the school beyond the classroom.
The Anita and Bill Cochran Scholarship Fund
Anita and Bill Cochran established this scholarship fund in 1999 to assist talented and deserving young women who demonstrate financial need.
The Armistead Scholarship Fund
The Armistead Scholarship Fund was created in 2013 and benefits qualified students from Williamson County, Tennessee, who demonstrate financial need.
The Barbara Haynes Scholarship Fund
Judge Barbara Haynes and her children, — Mandy Haynes Young, Class of '85, with husband, Stephen; Jeff and Lucy Haynes (Carrie '17); and Scott and Julie Haynes — established this scholarship fund in 2019 with gratitude for Harpeth Hall's program of educational excellence for girls. Judge Barbara Haynes and her husband, Senator Joe Haynes (deceased 2018), sent their sons to Montgomery Bell Academy and sent Mandy to Harpeth Hall, commuting daily from Goodlettsville. Their granddaughters, Carrie Haynes '17 and Mary Neely Young '21, have followed in Mandy's footsteps. Judge Haynes has been a strong supporter and mentor of women throughout her career and believes that an all-girls environment is important for the growth and strength of young women, including her daughter and granddaughters. While on the bench, she often sponsored Harpeth Hall’s girls during Winterim. Before his death, Senator Haynes supported Barbara and Mandy in all that they did. This scholarship benefits girls who demonstrate financial need and are enthusiastic learners from underrepresented communities, such as Goodlettsville.
The Bryant Family Scholarship Fund
With a belief in the importance of socio-economic diversity at Harpeth Hall, Rick and Mary Lea Gibson Bryant '72 established this scholarship fund for girls who enter Harpeth Hall in the Daugh W. Smith Middle School and who demonstrate high financial need. This endowed fund is given in honor of the Bryants’ daughter Laura Lea Bryant '04 and sons John F. Bryant and William V. Bryant who are graduates of Montgomery Bell Academy.
Carol Clark Elam Scholarship Fund
Family and friends of Carol Clark Elam '66 established this scholarship fund in 2001 in her memory to be awarded to deserving students in grades 5 through 12 who demonstrate need and leadership potential.
Carolyn Jones Estes Scholarship Fund
Funded through a Charitable Lead Trust established by Carolyn J. Estes, this scholarship provides assistance to talented and deserving young women who demonstrate financial need.
Catherine Boehm Kalman Scholarship Fund
Catherine Boehm Kalman graduated from Harpeth Hall in 1999, received her undergraduate degree in Child and Family Development from The University of Georgia, and earned her RN from Loyola University Chicago. Her father, Dr. Frank Boehm, a renowned maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Vanderbilt with over 50 years of experience, served on the Harpeth Hall Board of Trustees from 1995 to 2001 and chaired the Diversity Committee. Following in her father's footsteps, Catherine has risen to the level of Charge Nurse on Labor and Delivery at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. With gratitude for the education Catherine received at Harpeth Hall, and with a strong belief in the importance of fostering inclusivity and diversity within the student body, Julie and Frank Boehm established The Catherine Boehm Kalman Scholarship Fund in 2022 for students from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate financial need.
The Chadwell/Delony Scholarship Fund
Established in 2014 by Harpeth Hall Trustee Patty Litton Delony '66, this endowment provides opportunity for girls who demonstrate financial need, with an emphasis on ensuring economic and racial balance in the student body. Patty’s hope is that recipients will benefit from an all-girls education as she and her sister, Frances Delony '69, did at Harpeth Hall, and as her mother, Jane Chadwell Delony '39, and her aunt, Patty Litton Chadwell '35, did at Ward-Belmont.
Christina Spengler Bumstead Scholarship Fund
Family and friends established this fund in 2004 to honor the memory of Christina Spengler Bumstead '87. Christy’s wish was for gifts made in her memory to be used to support her alma mater. The scholarship goes to deserving students who demonstrate leadership potential and share Christy’s enthusiasm for life, love of learning, and commitment to community.
The Corinne Sphire and Joseph Teaff Scholarship Fund
Ann Teaff, Harpeth Hall Head of School from 1998-2014, established this fund with her husband Don McPherson in honor of her parents to inspire future generations of young women at Harpeth Hall to pursue their endless possibilities as Ann's parents inspired their children. The fund provides tuition assistance for young women with financial need.
The David B. Graves, Jr. Scholarship Fund
David B. Graves, Jr. was devoted to his family and friends, driven in his international business ventures, and unshakeable in his faith. He served as a Harpeth Hall trustee from 1991 to 2000 and was a passionate advocate for Harpeth Hall and its mission of educational excellence for girls. David and his wife Gloria Watson Graves, Ward-Belmont Class of 1949, sent their three daughters, Allison Graves Robinson '77, Nancy Graves Beveridge '80, and Lucy Graves Hollis '81, to Harpeth Hall and delighted in saying that each daughter had a unique and positive experience. Granddaughters Betsy Beveridge Cotten '03 and Glory Beveridge Herring '08 proudly continued the family tradition. To honor David Graves, family and friends established this scholarship fund to support a Harpeth Hall student demonstrating financial need, as well as grit and determination.
The Davis Scholarships Permanent Endowment Fund
The Frances Bond Davis Scholarship was established in 1993 to honor the 100th birthday of Frances Bond Davis. The Rascoe Bond Davis Scholarship was established in 1996 to honor her son, Rascoe, whose three daughters, Anne Davis '73, Beth Davis '74, and Pat Davis '82, graduated from Harpeth Hall and whose wife, Dugan Davis, was a teacher at Harpeth Hall. In 2008, these funds became the Davis Scholarships Permanent Endowment Fund. The scholarship recipients are students who demonstrate financial need, advanced academic ability, and determination to succeed in spite of obstacles they may encounter.
The Deaton Family Scholarship
Mr. and Mrs. C. Terry Deaton established this scholarship in honor of their three daughters, Heather Deaton Arthur ’92, Melissa Deaton Corrigan '93, and Dana Deaton Verner '95. Deaton Scholars are gifted and deserving girls who demonstrate financial need.
The Devine-Majors Scholarship Fund
With appreciation for educational excellence for girls and the power of financial aid, Maxine and Frank Majors and their daughters Lily Majors '21 and Olivia Majors '23 established this scholarship fund in 2022 to benefit girls demonstrating financial need.
The Doolittle Family Scholarship Fund
Established in 2003 by Robert S. Doolittle in honor of his daughter, Lauren Doolittle Ossolinski '86, and his step-daughter, Betsy Beveridge Cotten '03, and his granddaughter Eliza Ossolinski '18, this fund supports students who demonstrate financial need.
Edie and David Johnson Family Scholarship Fund
David and Edie Carell Johnson '80 created this scholarship fund in 2010 to provide assistance to girls who demonstrate financial need, are committed to academic excellence, and wish to make positive contributions to the Harpeth Hall community and beyond.
The Elizabeth Bond Davis '74 International Exchange Scholarship Fund
Elizabeth “Beth” Bond Davis '74 was an adventurous traveler, open to new cultures, high achieving, brave, and kind to everyone. She was Harpeth Hall’s first American Field Service student receiving an Americans Abroad Scholarship to travel to Malaysia in 1973. To honor Beth’s memory, the Joe C. Davis Foundation, family, and friends established an endowment fund in 2014 to enable students who demonstrate financial need to participate in International Exchanges and explore our world.
Elizabeth Pope Evans Scholarship
This scholarship was established through the generosity of Mrs. Walter A. Greenspan to honor the memory of her granddaughter, Elizabeth Pope Evans, who was an instructor in French and chair of the foreign language department from 1975 to 1985. This fund is designated to assist deserving students who have demonstrated promise in foreign languages, especially French.
The Francis Family Scholarship Fund
In 2009, Kay and Richard Francis established this endowment fund in honor of their daughter Ann Robinson Francis '09. The Francis Family Scholarship provides tuition assistance for young women who demonstrate financial need.
The Frank and Irene Dougherty Scholarship Fund
This endowment for financial aid established in 2010 by Pam and Mike Koban honors Pam’s grandparents, Frank and Irene Dougherty, from the Colorado prairie town of Lamar. Irene taught kindergarten through sixth grade in a one-room school. After she married Frank, they owned one of the few plumbing businesses in the area for 50 years and instilled in their progeny the value of a good education. Of their three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each one earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees. In 2000, their great-granddaughter, Katie Koban Braddy '00, graduated from Harpeth Hall.
The Gary L. Christy Scholarship Fund
Established in 2015 by the Vandewater family, this endowment honors veteran teacher Gary Christy who taught reading in Harpeth Hall’s Daugh W. Smith Middle School from 2003 to 2015. Beloved by his students, Mr. Christy began his teaching career in 1969 in the public school system and brought years of experience, wisdom, and magic to his classroom at Harpeth Hall. Students selected as the Gary Christy Scholar must demonstrate financial need and a passion for reading and learning.
Ingram Scholars Program
This program was established through a bequest of E. Bronson Ingram in honor of his daughter, Robin Ingram Patton '84. Ingram Scholars are awarded aid based on demonstrated need. Academic potential, commitment to community service, and involvement in a variety of extracurricular activities are important factors in the award decision.
The Jane and Greg Allen Family Scholarship Fund
With immense appreciation for the life-changing opportunity that scholarships provide, Jane and Greg Allen established this endowment upon the graduation of their daughter Elizabeth in 2022. The Jane and Greg Allen Family Scholarship assists girls demonstrating financial need so that they may benefit from the outstanding education that Harpeth Hall provides young women.
The Jane Berry Jacques Scholarship Fund
Jane Berry Jacques '72 served as the Harpeth Hall board chair from 2018 to 2022, drawing upon her experience as a long-time alumna leader, a Harpeth Hall college counselor from 1982 to 1985, a seasoned fundraiser, and a Next Step capital campaign co-chair. Her connection to Harpeth Hall runs deep as the Berry family lived across the street from the school for decades, and many family members attended the school, including Jane’s daughter Lindsay Jacques Irving '06. With tremendous appreciation for her Harpeth Hall diploma and her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science from Vanderbilt University, Jane places a high value on education. In recognition of her dedication and service to her alma mater, Jane’s husband Jack Jacques endowed The Jane Berry Jacques Scholarship Fund in 2022 to assist bright Harpeth Hall students who demonstrate financial need and value leadership and community service.
M. Stratton Foster Scholarship Fund
In memory of Nina Stratton Foster '64, this scholarship is awarded to a girl with exceptional promise who otherwise would not be able to afford a Harpeth Hall education.
Madeline and Eugene Pargh Scholarship
Established by Madeline and Eugene Pargh in 1996, this scholarship endowment supports students who show demonstrated need and academic talent. Preference is given to students who meet the school’s criteria of diversity.
The Margaret Helen Lowe '12 Scholarship Fund
A bright light to all who knew her, Margaret Lowe was an outstanding student, a talented athlete, an inspired classics scholar, and a servant leader who knew no bounds in giving to her friends and community. Her family, classmates, and friends established this scholarship fund in 2015 to honor her memory and to support girls who demonstrate financial need and who have a passion for learning and a heart for serving others.
The Mary Beth and Gary Wilson Scholarship Fund
Through their business, Mary Beth and Gary Wilson provided tremendous opportunities for women. With a wish to provide opportunity to girls at Harpeth Hall who demonstrate financial need, the Wilson Family established The Mary Beth and Gary Wilson Scholarship Fund in 2023. The Wilson Family honors Gary Wilson’s memory through this fund and continues Mary Beth Wilson’s ongoing commitment to supporting women and their important role in creating a better world.
The Melkus Family Scholarship Fund
Lynn and Ken Melkus and Lauren Melkus '96 created the Melkus Family Scholarship Fund in 2002 in order to assist the school in attracting the most qualified students regardless of financial circumstance. The gift was funded through the Melkus Family Foundation. The family’s priority is to use the funds to increase cultural diversity at Harpeth Hall.
The Olivia Fund
This fund was established anonymously in 2001 by a Harpeth Hall parent in honor of his young daughter, who was in her second year of eight at the school. Its purpose is to help students and their families with expenses that are important to an inclusive school experience but are not covered in financial aid awards for tuition, such as class trips, books, meal plans, and various extracurricular activities.
Owen Scholars Program
This program was established in 1993 from a bequest of Lulu Hampton Owen. Owen Scholars, students in grades 7 through 12, are awarded aid based on demonstrated need, exceptional academic potential, leadership qualities, special talents, and strength of character.
The Polly Linden Scholarship Fund
For thirty years, Polly Linden has been a master teacher, devoted swim coach, and vital leader of the Harpeth Hall upper school. She cares deeply about her students, athletes, colleagues, and the success of our school. She sets high expectations for her students, swimmers, and department members and challenges them to achieve extraordinary results, whether on AP Calculus exams, at regional and state swim meets, or in building a strong math curriculum and smart upper school schedules. With her undergraduate degree from Smith College and a master’s from Columbia, Polly understands the value of our girl-focused environment and inspires confidence in math skills, respect for the environment, and commitment to service. In 2024, Emily Vandewater '18 and Sydney Vandewater '21 established The Polly Linden Scholarship Fund to express thanks from generations of students for Polly’s devotion to Harpeth Hall. This endowed fund provides tuition assistance to a girl demonstrating financial need.
The Poteat Scholarship Fund
This endowment fund was established in memory of Mary Jane Poteat '66 by her sisters, Sylvia Poteat Cannon and Cynthia Poteat Sewell '61. Upon the untimely death of Sylvia in 2004, gifts made in her memory were added to a permanent scholarship endowment fund for a scholarship for an alumna’s daughter.
The Robert E. Womack Scholarship Fund
With gratitude for this teacher’s powerful and positive impact on their daughters Emily '18 and Sydney '21, the Vandewater family established a scholarship fund in honor of Robert E. Womack in 2021. Educated at Montgomery Bell Academy and Yale University, Mr. Womack has taught Latin and art history at Harpeth Hall since 2008. He has also been an enthusiastic bowling coach for his spirited all-girls teams. Students selected as Robert Womack Scholars must demonstrate financial need and a joy in learning.
Sara Womack Warner Scholarship Fund
This scholarship fund was established in 1997 by Beth and Dudley Warner in honor of Dudley’s mother, Sara Womack Warner '35. Scholarship funds support an upper school student interested in music or performing arts.
Smith-Warner Family Scholarship Fund
The Smith-Warner Family Scholarship Fund makes a Harpeth Hall education possible for students who demonstrate potential for leadership in the classroom and in the community. Given by Margaret Thompson Smith '33, Peggy Smith Warner '54, Jeannette Warner '78, and Mary Laird Warner Stewart '82.
Dr. Stephanie Balmer National Advisory Council (NAC) Grant Endowment
As a lasting tribute to our sixth Head of School, Dr. Stephanie Balmer, Derek and Marcie Allen Van Mol '92 permanently endowed the Dr. Stephanie Balmer National Advisory Council (NAC) Grant in 2019. Initially established by the National Advisory Council in 2018 under the leadership of NAC Co-Chairs Marcie Allen Van Mol '92 and Alison Smith '79, the program for rising seniors continues Dr. Balmer’s legacy of inspiring young women to expand their horizons and courageously pursue knowledge and experiences through summer study or a summer internship.
The Stephanie Balmer Scholarship Fund
During her tenure from 2014 to 2018 as Harpeth Hall’s sixth Head of School, Dr. Stephanie Balmer led with enthusiasm and joy. A life-long learner, she exuded a bright and intellectual vitality that inspired all who knew her. She championed the education of girls and young women, valuing each student for her unique and authentic self. Dr. Balmer was deeply committed to innovative teaching, social and emotional wellness for students, and equity and inclusion. With a lead memorial gift from John and Stephanie Currey Ingram '82, the Board of Trustees established a scholarship fund in 2018 for girls demonstrating financial need to honor the legacy of Dr. Balmer's leadership and the values which she held dear.
Susan Barbara Leake Glasgow Scholarship Fund
The Susan Barbara Leake Glasgow Scholarship was established in 2010 to honor Bobbie Glasgow ’36, a Ward-Belmont alumna and past Harpeth Hall trustee, for students who need and qualify for financial aid. Throughout her life, Mrs.Glasgow was a firm believer in education as all-important, and her family supported her in this conviction. Her Harpeth Hall family members include daughters Susie Glasgow Brown ’60 and Emily Glasgow Bruno ’64, daughter-in-law Candace Floyd Glasgow ’71, granddaughter Barbara Keith Brown Payne ’85, and great-granddaughters Susanna Payne ’23, Liza Brown ’24, and Raina Meeks ’28. Her sons Sam ’60 and Bim ’69 are alumni of Montgomery Bell Academy. Mrs.Glasgow was proud to be a part of the large Ward-Belmont/Harpeth Hall body of alumnae.
The Susan Seymour Glasgow Brown Scholarship Fund
Established in 2021, this scholarship fund honors Susie Brown, Class of 1960, Harpeth Hall English teacher from 1971 to 1973 and director of admissions and alumnae from 1980 to 1987, and a loyal supporter of Harpeth Hall. Susie attended Sweet Briar College where she served as president of student government, graduating Phi Beta Kappa in 1964. She then earned a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Arts in English at Vanderbilt. Susie and her husband, Allen, believe deeply in the importance of education; their daughter Barbara Keith Brown Payne graduated in 1985, and they are proud to have two Harpeth Hall granddaughters Susanna Payne, Class of 2023, and Liza Brown, Class of 2024. This scholarship assists girls who demonstrate financial need.
The Trinity Scholarship
The scholarship fund was established by Thomas W. Schlater III in 2011 rewarding a deserving student who sets and achieves high goals. Tom learned the value of education from his father and his mother, Mary Hughes Schlater '24. Each of his daughters benefited from a Harpeth Hall education: Sarah Schlater Yavorski '75, Amy Schlater-Berg '77, and Mary Elizabeth Schlater '81.
The Waltemath Family Scholarship Fund
Ashley and Ward Waltemath established The Waltemath Family Scholarship Fund in 2023 in recognition of the importance of educational excellence for girls and a wish to enhance opportunities for girls demonstrating financial need.
The Wiley Family Scholarship Fund
David and Margaret Hayes Wiley '49 established this scholarship in 2003 to be awarded to an outstanding upper school student who demonstrates need and who will make a significant contribution to the Harpeth Hall community. The scholarship honors the four generations of their family and friends who have attended and benefited from Ward-Belmont and Harpeth Hall.
The Winterim Travel Fund
Peggy Smith Warner '54, Jeannette Warner '78, Mary Laird Warner Stewart '82, and Overton Thompson Smith established this fund through the Henry Laird Smith Foundation in 2014 to assist girls on financial aid with expenses related to Winterim academic travel and international exchanges. These experiences foster a deeper understanding of the world and other cultures, and this fund will allow girls to have access to life-changing opportunities regardless of financial circumstances. The Smith-Warner family hopes that others who have enjoyed and have been impacted by Winterim and exchange travel will be inspired to help future generations of young women have similar global study experiences.
Faculty Support Funds
The 1982 Edward E. Ford Foundation Faculty Enrichment Fund
In 1982, The Edward E. Ford Foundation established this Faculty Enrichment Fund to support opportunities for faculty enrichment and professional development.
The 2001 Edward E. Ford Foundation Personal Enrichment Fund
This fund was established in 2001 through a challenge grant from The Edward E. Ford Foundation and other donors. The endowment fund supports Upper School faculty summer sabbatical experiences for personal and professional development and enrichment.
The Dr. Arthur R. Echerd, Jr. Endowed Fund for Teaching Excellence
With deep appreciation for his commitment to all-girls education, Will Ed and Rachel Reeves Settle '94 established this endowment honoring beloved and revered upper school History teacher, Dr. Art Echerd, who began his career at Harpeth Hall in 1986. His encyclopedic knowledge of world history, his consistent presence at student performances and games, and his investment in the growth and success of each student he teaches are legendary. With his University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill undergraduate, master's, and PhD degrees, Dr. Echerd is a true scholar and models the life of the mind for students, Harpeth Hall colleagues, and the adults he teaches in continuing education classes. He is often referred to as one of the best teachers of all time by Harpeth Hall alumnae. Through this endowed fund, Dr. Echerd's legacy of teaching excellence enables Harpeth Hall to continue to attract and retain the most talented and devoted faculty.
Ellen Bowers Hofstead Chair in the Humanities
Established by James W. Hofstead in memory of his wife, Ellen Bowers Hofstead '36, this Chair is awarded to a full-time faculty member from the English, foreign language, or social science department who has demonstrated distinction in teaching.
Ellen Bowers Hofstead Chair in Mathematics and Science
Established in 1997 by James W. Hofstead in memory of his wife, Ellen Bowers Hofstead, this Chair is awarded to a full-time faculty member from the mathematics or science department who has demonstrated distinction in teaching.
The Elizabeth Leigh Horton Faculty Award Endowment
With a planned gift to endowment, Ginger and Fred Horton will establish The Elizabeth Leigh Horton Faculty Award to recognize one Middle School teacher and one Upper School teacher who demonstrate heartfelt care and concern for each Harpeth Hall girl, in and out of the classroom. Dr. and Mrs. Horton are making this gift in memory of their daughter Leigh '85 who passed away in 1984 just before her senior year. The award is in recognition of the love and support the faculty showed Leigh during the six years she was honored to attend Harpeth Hall.
The Faculty Innovation Fund
In honor of the Harpeth Hall faculty, former Head of School Ann Teaff and her husband Don McPherson established The Faculty Innovation Fund in 2018 to inspire and support teachers' newest and best ideas for educating girls and young women. This endowed fund provides resources for faculty who wish to launch a creative and innovative concept meant to enhance teaching and learning in the 21st century classroom.
Gladys Taylor Quarles Grant for Faculty Enrichment
Anne Doolittle, granddaughter of Gladys Taylor Quarles, established this endowment in 1999 to fund opportunities for faculty to pursue an interest or activity for personal growth. The intent of these experiences is to enrich lives through adventure and education outside the school.
The Jeannette Simpson Andrews Endowed Fund for Mathematics Faculty
Jeannette Andrews was a beloved mathematics teacher at Harpeth Hall from 1969 to 1985 and the mother of four children, including Betty Andrews, Class of 1975. Until her death at the age of 90 in 2017, Jeannette remained sharp, held herself and others to high standards, and loved Harpeth Hall. This endowment in her memory was established by her husband of 61 years, Dr. John S. (Steve) Andrews, to provide resources for exceptional professional development opportunities for the Harpeth Hall mathematics faculty.
The John and Carol Cobb Rochford Fund for Teaching Excellence
With heartfelt appreciation for Harpeth Hall faculty, John and Carol Cobb Rochford '61 established this endowment in 2019 to ensure the school’s ability to attract, support, and retain outstanding educators. Carol, her daughters Dianne Rochford Kirby '82 and Elizabeth Rochford Luttrull '92, and her granddaughters Caroline Luttrull '24 and Katherine Luttrull '26, have all benefited from inspiring teachers at Harpeth Hall.
The John W. Hunt Faculty Enrichment Fund
The John W. Hunt Faculty Enrichment Fund was established by Mrs. John W. Hunt in 1981. Its purpose is to support faculty professional development and enrichment activities.
Leah S. Rhys Fund for Faculty Enrichment
Established in 1998 to honor Leah S. Rhys upon her retirement as Harpeth Hall’s Head of School, this endowment provides funds for faculty enrichment and professional development.
Louise Broome Trickett Fund for Excellence in Teaching
The Trickett family, including Mr. and Mrs. William E. Trickett, Gail Trickett Trapp '69, Laura Trickett Riley '70, and Reed Edward Trickett, established this endowment fund in 2000 in memory of Louise Broome Trickett. The fund supports faculty compensation and professional development in the Upper School.
The Marguerite Weaver Kondracke Fund for Excellence in School Leadership
Established in 2000 by Marguerite Weaver Kondracke ’64, this fund was created to attract, retain, and support the Harpeth Hall Head of School. It is meant to ensure leadership excellence at Harpeth Hall for all generations
The Mary Beth and Gary Wilson Fund for Faculty Support
During his life, Gary Wilson served our country as a Marine and served his community as a business leader, modeling integrity, honesty, and relationships built on trust. Together, Gary and his wife Mary Beth Wilson built their business with a belief that you take care of your people. With that same sentiment, the Wilson Family established an endowed fund at Harpeth Hall in 2023 in support of faculty compensation to secure the very best teachers for girls and to further Harpeth Hall’s mission.
Owen Chair for Excellence in Teaching
This endowed Chair was established in 1993 by a bequest from Lulu Hampton Owen, a founding Board member and a 20-year member of the Harpeth Hall Board of Trustees. The Chair is awarded annually to an outstanding faculty member who demonstrates excellence in teaching.
The Stephanie and John Ingram Faculty Fund
In 2002, John and Stephanie Currey Ingram '82 created this endowment fund to support Harpeth Hall’s ability to attract and retain top faculty through supporting faculty compensation and benefits. The gift was directed through the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.
The Susan and Luke Simons Endowment Fund
Luke and Susan Willingham Simons '60 established this fund in 2001 in honor of their daughters, Susan '84, Adele '88, and Dede '91. The purpose of the fund is to ensure resources are available for faculty professional development and support for teaching students with learning differences.
William Waller Endowment Fund
Milbrey Waller Andrews '55 created this endowment fund in memory of her father, William Waller, Sr. As Harpeth Hall’s first Board of Trustees Chair, his leadership proved instrumental in the formation of the school. One pivotal task was the selection of Mrs. Susan Souby as Head of School. In turn, she brought together an excellent faculty to carry forward Ward-Belmont’s tradition of excellence in educating young women. The endowment fund benefits faculty compensation to help continue the school’s commitment to attracting and retaining the best faculty. Mrs. Andrews created this fund in honor of her 50th class reunion in May 2005.
General Endowment Funds
Ann Scott Carell and Monroe Carell, Jr. Endowed Fund Benefiting the Ann Scott Carell Library
In 2003, Ann and Monroe Carell established a permanent endowment fund for the purpose of long-term care and maintenance of the Ann Scott Carell Library.
Connery Family Endowment Fund
Hud Connery and Cathy Ellis '72 established this endowment fund in 2000 to provide general endowment funds for Harpeth Hall. This fund honors her mother, Martha Grissim Ellis '41 and their daughter, Cate Connery Bury '99.
The Davis Family Endowment
This unrestricted endowment fund was first established in 1997 to support the school’s operations. The following members of the Davis family have contributed over time: Mrs. W. Lipscomb Davis, Sr., Mr. and Mrs. W. Lipscomb Davis Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Davis, Mr. and Mrs. W. Lipscomb Davis III, Virginia A. Davis, and Adelaide Davis.
Frances and Foskett Brown Endowment for Campus Preservation
Dudley Brown White ’49 established this fund in memory of her parents, who were instrumental in Harpeth Hall’s founding. Funds from this endowment are designated for the preservation and beautification of the Harpeth Hall campus.
The Gilbertine Moore Endowment Fund
Gilbertine Moore, class of 1935, treasured her experience at Ward-Belmont, loved Harpeth Hall, and wanted to ensure educational opportunities for future generations of women. Through an extraordinary bequest received in 2010, ''Gilly" provided for an endowment fund in general support of educational excellence at Harpeth Hall.
Idanelle McMurry Center for Arts and Athletics Endowment Fund
Former heads of schools and colleagues established this permanent endowment fund to honor Miss Idanelle “Sam” McMurry '43 on her 80th birthday. They wished to recognize her for her life-long commitment to education, including service to Harpeth Hall, other independent schools, and national educational organizations. The endowment fund will help ensure the long-term care and maintenance of the Idanelle McMurry Center for Arts and Athletics on Harpeth Hall’s campus. The McMurry Center houses a 700-seat theatre, art gallery, gymnasium, and dance, music and theatre classrooms. The facility opened in 1977 and was named for Miss McMurry in recognition of her leadership as Harpeth Hall’s second Head of School.
The Influential Women Fund
An anonymous alumna of Harpeth Hall established this fund in 2006 as a tribute to four gracious women who happened to be good friends – two educators, Elinor Ewing and Martha Overholser Hammonds; an artist, Adele Smith; and a community volunteer, Elizabeth Ann Shapiro. All were bright and well-educated, and throughout their long lives were actively engaged in using their talents to make the world a better place. This unrestricted endowment fund provides income for use within the school’s annual operating budget.
The Katherine Graham Endowed Fund
A devoted friend to Harpeth Hall, Katherine Graham passed away in 2019 and left a generous bequest to the school. In addition to her numerous leadership roles in the Nashville Women’s Golf Association and the USGA, Mrs. Graham volunteered for the Red Cross and many other civic organizations in Nashville. She was impressed by Harpeth Hall's community service work and wished to support the school in a meaningful way. This general endowment provides overall support for Harpeth Hall's mission of educational excellence for girls.
Rachael and Sarah Camille Farris Endowment Fund
This general endowment fund was established in 2003 with a bequest from Rachael Farris’ estate, and other gifts from family members made in memory of the Farris sisters. Rachael Farris ’37 and Sarah Camille Farris '49 loved Ward-Belmont and appreciated the tradition of excellence in education for young women carried forward at Harpeth Hall.
Rascoe Bond Davis Endowment Fund
A friend of Harpeth Hall established this endowment in 2001 in memory of Rascoe Davis. This unrestricted endowment fund provides income for use within the school’s annual operating budget.
The Souby Hall Preservation Fund
Through generous capital gifts to The Campaign for Harpeth Hall from 2000-2005, Harpeth Hall's first classroom building — Souby Hall — was updated and renovated. In 2007 and 2008, The Souby Hall Preservation Fund was endowed with bequests from past trustee Sydney Keeble and his wife, Sheila. This fund preserves and maintains Souby Hall, originally the home of Mr. Keeble's grandmother. Previous capital projects as well as this endowment will sustain Harpeth Hall's landmark for the future.
Stephen Frost Nichols Garden Fund
This endowment fund was established in 1992 in memory of Stephen Frost Nichols, son of Polly Jordan Nichols '53. Funds are for the maintenance and beautification of the garden and for campus preservation.
Program Funds
The Ann and Monroe Carell Visiting Writer and Artist Series Endowment
This series, established by Ann and Monroe Carell and their daughters, Julie Carell Stadler '77, Edie Carell Johnson '80, and Kathryn Carell Brown, supports a writer and an artist for a week’s residency of workshops, lectures, and classroom teaching.
Ann and Richard L. Scott Upper School Endowment
This endowment, established in 1997 by Ann and Richard Scott, supports cutting-edge technology for upper school classrooms and provides funds to enhance the design and furnishings of the teaching and learning spaces.
The Avalyn Berry Swain Cardiac Surgery Preparatory Endowment
Established by Avalyn Berry Swain '56, this endowment honors her father and mother, as founders of the Tyler Berry, Jr. & Sara Berry Heart Hospital at the Berry Farms Interchange on I-65 at Franklin, Williamson County, Tennessee. The endowment provides financial assistance to young women with financial needs with an interest in becoming heart surgeons, by providing funding for the necessary preparatory subjects, including biology, anatomy, chemistry, mathematics, and related science courses.
Cindy Crist Art Fund
Julie and Larry Crist, along with friends and family, established this fund in 1986 in memory of their daughter, Cindy Crist '85, a talented artist. Each year, income from this endowment is used to purchase a painting from a Senior Class artist who exemplifies the talent Cindy demonstrated. The painting is added to the Cindy Crist Collection.
The Community Service Endowment Fund
Funded by a gift from The Louie M. and Betty M. Phillips Foundation in 2001, this endowed fund supports the community service program at Harpeth Hall. The Phillips Foundation encourages others to contribute to this fund in order to support Harpeth Hall student service learning activities in our community.
The Curb Family Music Center and Amphitheatre Endowment
This center was established by a gift from Linda and Mike Curb to build an entrance to the music and theatre departments and to enhance the choral and orchestral music rooms. The endowment provides support for the center and for campus preservation.
The Evelyn Dickenson Swensson Endowed Fund for Music
Evelyn Dickenson Swensson '45 is a talented vocalist, pianist, conductor, librettist/lyricist, and composer, and was the first female conductor of OperaDelaware and the Delaware Symphony Orchestra. She was president of her senior class at Ward-Belmont, received a certificate in piano upon graduation, and went on to complete a B.A. in voice and piano at Hollins University. Years later, she earned a Master of Music in conducting and composition, becoming the first female recipient of that degree from West Chester University. With her beloved sister Sue Dickenson Swensson '49 in attendance at the ceremony, Harpeth Hall honored Evelyn with the Ward Belmont/Harpeth Hall Distinguished Alumna Award in 2014 in recognition of her contributions to the music world, including directing and writing musicals for adults and students. The Evelyn Dickenson Swensson Endowed Fund for Music provides support for Harpeth Hall's choral, orchestral, and music instruction program.
The Helen Mullins Manning Mathematics Endowment
Established in memory of Helen Mullins Manning, Ward-Belmont Class of 1930, by her daughter and former Harpeth Hall faculty member Nancy Manning VanDevender, this endowment provides an award that honors a senior who has exhibited both enthusiasm for and outstanding achievement in higher mathematics.
The Mandy Simpson Barbara Students’ Speakers Series Endowed Fund
In 2014, Mandy Simpson Barbara, Class of 1954, began funding a students’ speakers series program to enhance the quality of featured speakers at all-school assemblies and to give students the opportunity to participate in the selection of those speakers. An avid follower of American author and theologian Frederick Buechner, Mandy will establish The Mandy Simpson Barbara Students’ Speakers Series Endowed Fund through a planned gift to provide inspiring assembly speakers who will promote strong character, model excellent communications skills, and encourage greater understanding of our connection to one another and of our ever-changing world.
Martha Grissim Ellis Art Studio Endowment
Made possible through a gift from Hud Connery and Cathy Ellis '72, this endowment honors her mother, Martha Ellis '41, and their daughter, Cate Connery Bury '99. The endowment provides support for the arts.
Massey Lecture Series
Established by Barbara Massey Rogers '56, this endowed series provides funds to invite distinguished thinkers on moral and ethical issues to campus. This program inspires and fosters Harpeth Hall’s commitment to a moral awareness and ethical climate focusing specifically on integrity, charity, and goodness in our life together on campus.
The Melkus Family Science Endowment
Funded through a gift from Lynn and Ken Melkus to honor their daughter, Lauren Evelyn Melkus '96, this endowment provides funds to support the Middle School science program.
Steere Family Fund for International Studies
Established in 2007 by Lynda and William Steere and Becky and Chris Steere, this fund supports Harpeth Hall’s global education program, providing resources to support the international exchange program, interdisciplinary global curriculum development, and international internships for students. In support of our mission to develop global citizens of the 21st century, this fund helps to foster an understanding of and appreciation for world cultures.
Endowments Held by Others
The Richards Fund for the Study of Latin and the Classics at Harpeth Hall
Barbara Richards Haugen '68 and her family established this endowment in 2000 through a gift to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. This fund provides annual income to Harpeth Hall to support teaching of Latin and the classics.
If you would like information on establishing or contributing to an endowment, email Director of Advancement Susan Moll or call 615-346-0087.