LIGHT THE WAY CAMPAIGN
OUR RENEWED CALL & EXPANDED VISION
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Letter from the President
GAC’s legacy of impact is remarkable, yet our work is far from finished. The needs of today’s students are constantly evolving, and the skills they require are more expansive than ever. At the same time, digital advancements and global interconnectedness are reshaping how we teach, lead, and engage with the world. These sweeping changes have inspired GAC to adopt an even bolder vision for the future of our school.
The “Light the Way” Capital Campaign marks a critical step forward in this journey. With a focus on enhancing our facilities, expanding our programs, and deepening our educational experiences, this campaign is integral to fostering our students’ intellectual growth, faith formation, future ready skills, and character development.
As you explore the details of the Light the Way Campaign , I invite you not only to reflect on what’s ahead, but also to pray about how you might play a role in making this vision a reality. Your support is essential in helping us provide an education that equips students to live lives of purpose, integrity, and service to our Heavenly Father.
We ask you to join us in this exciting journey—one that will create a lasting legacy for future generations. Together, let us light the way forward and empower our students to shine brightly in a world that needs their light more than ever.
Together in faith,
Scott Harsh, Ed.D. President
Jim & Julie Tidwell Commons (Liles
Media Center Renovation)
Tidwell Commons will be the new home of GAC’s
• Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program
• New Student-Run Coffee Shop offering healthy snack options
• Creative Media Production Studio and Learning Space
• Christian Life and Missions: A Hub for Faith and Information
• Social and Collaborative Spaces
• Enhanced Academic Support Space and Modern Library
“The current Liles Media Center will undergo a complete transformation, paving the way for The Jim and Julie Tidwell Commons. This new, innovative space will provide middle and high school students with opportunities to learn, study, and gather. The Tidwell Commons will be more than a facility; it will serve as a hub where ideas come to life, equipping students with real-world skills in business, innovation, and creativity.”
Dr. Paul Cable, High School Principal
“At GAC, we recognize the profound impact of a supportive spiritual environment on our students’ growth. The Jim and Julie Tidwell Commons will be a cornerstone for nurturing spiritual life at our school.”
Justin Bagwell, Director of Christian Life
Jim & Becky Combee Elementary Complex Redesign
The Jim and Becky Combee Elementary Complex will be renovated to include:
• Redesigned, Flexible, Modern Classrooms and Spaces
• Hallway Transformations to Support Learning Beyond the Classroom
• New Secured Lobby and Welcome Area
• Updates to the Dining Hall: New exit and additional space for eating
• Additional STEM and Outdoor Learning Spaces
• State-of-the-Art Engineering, Science, and Design Lab
• Additonal Environmental Learning Classroom
• Outdoor Tree House with Suspension Bridges
“Built in 2003, The Combee Elementary Complex is set for a complete transformation to better meet the needs of today’s students. This renovation will not only modernize the Combee Elementary Complex but will also create an inspiring and secure environment where our younger learners can thrive and grow, reflecting our commitment to excellence in education and student well-being.”
New Secured Lobby
Renovation of Henderson Library and Hallway
Rhonda Helms, Lower School Principal
Lower School STEM Lab
Outdoor Tree House
“The new science and engineering lab will enhance the learning experience in numerous ways. It will allow students to design, create, test, and evaluate their work. Previously, learning was limited by time and space, but the new lab will offer the resources needed to explore theories over time, deepening their knowledge and understanding.”
Aaron Jongko, Lower School Assistant Principal
Village Tinker Lab
New Athletic Field House for
Soccer, Tennis, Baseball, Softball, and Flag Football
The new athletic field house will provide:
• Much-needed locker rooms for soccer, baseball, softball, tennis and flag football teams
• Meeting room, training room and coaches’ offices in close proximity to the athletic venues
• Enhanced facilities to improve both student-athlete experience and game-day operations, including concessions
• New indoor batting and pitching cages
• A safe place for spectators and players during inclement weather
Facilities New Athletic Field House
“You never know where a child might be impacted—whether through sports, the arts, or the classroom. In all the environments we’re creating and investing in, one thing is certain: somewhere, somehow, our efforts will make a lasting impact on a child’s life.”
Stanford ‘98 and Lindsey Phillips, Light the Way Campaign Chairs, GAC Parents
“A new athletic field house will be constructed on the south end of campus along with expanded parking to better support the growing needs of our athletic programs. GAC has needed this facility to not only enhance the athlete experience but also provide crucial amenities for our spectators.”
Tim Hardy, Director of Athletics
Shanil Naik Athletic Center Expansion
Enhanced Facilities and State-of-the-Art Training Equipment Upgrades
The Shanil Naik Athletic Training Center, a cornerstone for student-athletes across all sports, is undergoing a major expansion to meet increasing demand.
• Total square footage for Performance Training will double
• Enhanced speed and agility training areas on second floor
• State-of-the-art performance equipment to elevate training standards
• Expanded recovery and rehabilitation spaces
“Our new weight room renovation in the Naik will empower our student-athletes with more effective group training sessions, more specialized programs, and advanced monitoring strategies. This upgrade is a critical step in meeting the diverse needs of our athletes, increasing training quality, and fostering athletic development tailored to maximizing each individual’s potential.”
Sean Manuel, Director of Performance Training
New Performance Training Space
Updated Fine Arts Technology
Fine Arts Improvements will include:
• Updated video, sound, and lighting equipment in the Sara D. Williams Fine Arts Center
• Complete renovation of the AV equipment in the Long Forum, including full transition from analog to digital, additional speakers for improved sound, and a new, updated AV console that is more user-friendly and streamlined for students
• New studios and green room in Tidwell Commons for podcasting, film, and video creation
• Presentation equipment in Entrepreneurship Conference Room in Tidwell Commons
“Our current AV equipment is aging, with many pieces over a decade old. With technology evolving so rapidly, it’s time for an upgrade. New, intuitive equipment will be far more student-friendly and accessible, allowing us to put tools like the audio board directly in students’ hands. With this investment, we’re committed to ensuring our equipment functions well, offering more learning possibilities for our students.”
Regan Burnett, Director of Fine Arts
50-Meter Outdoor Pool &
Sand Volleyball Court Complex
To support GAC’s growing swim and dive programs, a new 10-lane, 50-meter outdoor pool will:
• Increase flexibility in scheduling practices, meets, and events
• Allow the re-establishment of GAC’s Water Polo Team
• Expand GAC’s aquatics offerings to include Masters swimming for adults, lifeguard training, Mommy & Me classes, summer camps, and more
• Allow GAC to host large, U.S. Swimming Association sanctioned swim and dive meets
• Provide cross-training/rehabilitation opportunities for all student athletes
• Provide additional parking for Spartan Stadium, Freeman Aquatic Center, and Long Forum
New 50-Meter Outdoor Swimming Pool
Sand Volleyball Courts
“Since its opening in 2007, the Freeman Aquatic Center has been home to GAC’s middle and high school swim and dive teams, as well as the Spartan Aquatics Club, which offers a competitive swim team and swimming lessons. The growing success of these programs has led to a surge in demand, outgrowing the current facility’s capacity.
We are thrilled about the idea of a new outdoor 50-meter pool and its potential to elevate our programs, enhance the experience for all GAC students, and allow us to offer more programs to the community.”
Emily Krug, GAC Aquatics Program Director & Head Swim Coach
Two new sand volleyball courts will be constructed in the heart of campus between Tidwell Commons and Freeman Aquatic Center allowing for:
• Cross-training opportunities for GAC volleyball players
• Enriched athletic and social experiences for students
• Team building, student recreation, and community engagement
New Sand Volleyball Courts
New Tennis Complex & Parking Expansion
The addition of six new tennis courts will enhance the GAC tennis programs by:
• Allowing for simultaneous play for Boys and Girls Tennis Teams during match play
• Accomodating classes, league play, and the high performance tennis program
• Fostering community engagement through expanded access to world-class facilities
“Since opening in 2017, the Tennis Academy has experienced tremendous growth. To date, we have 516 student and adult players across all levels. While most of our competitor schools have 10–12 courts, our six courts do not support the needs of our current GAC Tennis teams. To support our GAC Teams and to sustain the rapid growth of the Tennis Academy, we must expand our facilities.”
• Providing for more efficient practice times for our Middle and JV Tennis teams
• Adding a new parking lot on the south end of campus
Scott Hutchinson, Tennis Academy Director
Image shows additional courts that may be added in the future
Leaving an Enduring Legacy
Financial Aid Endowment
• Expansion of this fund will ensure that any student wanting to attend GAC will not be turned away because of inability to pay
Christian Life Fund
• Expansion of this fund will be used to support the spiritual growth of every student through mission trips, Christian speakers, authors and artists, and retreats
Sustaining Endowment
• This fund bolsters sustainability of GAC, providing resources for unforeseen physical plant expenses ensuring the student experience is not interrupted by unmet need
New Technology Endowment
• Committed to leading the way through technology innovation, this fund will support ongoing classroom technology integration
Teacher Quality and Growth Endowment
• Expansion of this fund will provide additional support for advancing teachers’ skills and learning
Completed Projects
Young Learners Classrooms and Playscape
Greater Atlanta Christian School’s Young Learners program provides a nurturing, faith-filled environment where our youngest Spartans (infants through two-year-olds) thrive through play-based learning. During Summer 2023, a $1.1 million expansion enhanced our facilities with an inviting indoor play area, interactive outdoor learning spaces, and optimized classrooms designed to foster creativity and independence.
Multi-Purpose Sport Complex Enhancements
The addition of new restrooms and a modern concession stand will enhance the overall experience for both athletes and spectators, providing greater convenience for everyone.
Spartan Baseball Stadium Turf and Lights
Thanks to early generous contributions, Spartan Baseball Stadium now features top-tier turf, identical to that used by SEC, ACC, and MLB teams, ensuring optimal playability in any weather. Additional upgrades include a unique hybrid turf-dirt pitcher’s mound and cutting-edge LED lighting for night games.
Rendering
Thanks to the incredible support of our community and early donors, we are within striking distance of our overall fundraising goal. As we announce the campaign publicly, we are grateful to already have gifts and pledges of $24.95MM (80%) of our goal! Additionally, a generous donor has pledged a $1.5MM challenge gift, which we will receive once we reach $29.32MM to complete the final phase of fundraising.
Jim & Julie Tidwell Commons (Liles Media Center Renovation)
Jim & Becky Combee Elementary Complex Redesign
Lower School STEM Lab
Village Tinker Lab and Enhancements
Updated Fine Arts Technology
Young Learners Renovation (Completed)
Outdoor Tree House Classroom (Completed)
New Athletic Field House for Soccer, Tennis, Baseball, Softball, and Flag Football
Shanil Naik Athletic Center Expansion
Multi-Purpose Field Restrooms/Concessions (Completed)
Spartan Baseball Turf and Lights (Completed)
50-Meter Outdoor Pool
& Sand Volleyball Court Complex
New Tennis Complex & Parking Expansion
Financial Aid Endowment
Christian Life Fund
Sustaining Endowment
New Technology Endowment
Teacher Quality and Growth Endowment
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between an Annual Fund gift and a Capital Campaign gift?
A: The Annual Fund is GAC’s yearly giving campaign that bridges the gap between what tuition covers and the total cost of a GAC education. Annual Fund donations are considered unrestricted and are used to support the general operating budget, programs, and activities that benefit our students. Capital Campaigns are multi-year, strategic fundraising initiatives that raise funds for a specific purpose, such as facility renovations and new buildings. Capital campaign donations are usually restricted donations, and must therefore be used for the purpose for which they were originally intended.
Q: Why should I consider capital giving? My child will only benefit from these projects for a few years after they are complete.
A: It is important to remember and reflect upon our school’s legacy of generous giving. The sacrificial giving of previous generations funded the amenities and resources your child enjoys today. As the saying goes, all children are warmed by the fires built by others. Your generous investment in the enhancements of tomorrow will sustain GAC’s long-term reputation of excellence.
Q:
What if I can’t make a large gift? Should I still contribute?
A: Independent schools have far less supporters than universities or large charities do. Because the number of donors is small, but the need is large, every gift counts. We encourage donors to give in a way that is meaningful to them, whether through a one-time gift, a pledge, or smaller contributions spread over time. The collective generosity of our entire community is what will make the campaign successful. Your participation truly matters.
Q: Are there recognition opportunities for Capital Campaign donors?
A: Yes, we offer a range of recognition opportunities to honor our generous donors. These can include naming opportunities for specific projects or spaces, as well as special recognition in campaign materials and at donor events. We want to celebrate the generosity of those who are making a lasting impact on GAC. All donors who contribute $7,500 or more to the Light the Way campaign will be honored with a special recognition on a plaque displayed in the new Tidwell Commons Building.
Q: What is the timeline for the campaign? When will the projects be completed?
A: The Light the Way Capital Campaign is a three-year initiative, with a goal of receiving pledges of $30.82M by April 2025. If we are able to achieve this goal, we expect that construction and renovations will begin in Spring 2025 and be completed by Fall 2026. We will provide regular updates on our progress and keep the community informed as key milestones are achieved.
Q: Can I make a pledge and pay over time?
A: Yes! We understand that making a major gift to the Capital Campaign is a significant commitment. To make giving easier, we offer flexible payment plans. Donors can choose to fulfill their pledge over a period of time (e.g., one, two, or three years). Donors may choose to make annual, monthly or quarterly payments. We also welcome gifts of appreciated assets such as stock, which may provide tax benefits.
The Time Is Now. Your Pledge Matters.
We Need Everyone’s Help to Make This Vision a Reality
We invite you to prayerfully consider making a pledge to the Light the Way Campaign today. Your gift can be spread over the next three years through annual, quarterly, or monthly contributions, allowing you to support this important cause in a way that works best for you.
Scan here to make a gift, pledge, or learn more.
Together, we can continue to build on the legacy of those who came before us and provide an even brighter future for the students and families who will follow. Join us as we light the way for the next generation at Greater Atlanta Christian School.
Dr. Katherine White Vice President of Advancement
kwhite@gac.org | 770-243-2206 office
Tina Bullard Associate Director of Development tbullard@gac.org
| 770-243-2207 office
