The sounds of applause and celebratory noisemakers filled Sloan Theatre at the State of the School on January 22 as Head of School Dr. Tracie Catlett announced that the School had successfully concluded the $27 million Be BOLD Campaign, the largest fundraising campaign in its history.
The Be BOLD Campaign raised $25 million to support the construction and development of the Helen Monroe Preschool; the Brano Milicevic Maintenance Facility; new restroom facilities at the tennis center; and the 49,000-square-foot Center for Student Life, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation (SLEI). This state-of-the-art building is currently under construction by Samet Corporation and is scheduled to open in the spring 2026. An additional $2 million was raised to increase the School’s endowment.
“This campaign was about more than just raising funds—it was about investing in the potential of our students and their futures,” said Head of School Dr. Tracie Catlett. “This space will serve as a hub for discovery, creativity, innovation, and growth for generations to come…I extend my deepest thanks to our campaign co-chairs, Merrill and Chuck Keeley ’81 and Mary Katherine ’04 and Matt McInnis, our donors, campaign volunteers, board of trustees, Chief Philanthropy Officer Dr. Ian Patrick, and dedicated staff whose enthusiasm and steadfast support set the foundation for this success.”
“It’s vitally important that the city of Greensboro has quality public and private schools to retain and attract families and support economic development,” stated Chuck Keeley, campaign co-chair, GDS alumnus, and past board chair. “This project will serve to strengthen the education options for families who are living in or relocating to the Triad. We are fortunate to live in a community that values quality education.”