2023–2024
Achieving Success
Success is a moving target. As goals are met and new goals are set, we continue pursuing success as stepping stones, not as a destination. As Winston Churchill famously said, “Success is not final; failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”
That said, there are a few milestones in life where success feels more “achieved” as a defining moment on the continuum where we pause the pursuit to celebrate an achievement. Our end-of-year awards and transition ceremony is one such moment.
The 2023-24 end-of-year ceremony included a musical component that was particularly unique and noteworthy as a moment of “achieved success.” A few months before the ceremony, I approached the more advanced music students to collaborate on performing a song for the ceremony. We spent a few weeks considering options within a formal meeting structure and some defined parameters. It felt collaborative, yet what I thought was the right balance of adult oversight and support.
They prepared in earnest, as planned, until a scant two weeks before the ceremony when they elected their most diplomatic musician to break the news to me that “they weren’t feeling it” and had some alternative ideas about taking the performance in a new direction. Their vision comprised three different songs, including a musical and lyrical original from one
of the transitioning students who planned to sing publicly for the first time in his life. Given that I was tasked, for my first time, with planning the ceremony and that I am, by nature, a planner, this eleventh-hour revelation was jarring. I told them I would consider their feedback and get back to them the next day.
As I considered the new situation, the earnestness of their vision, and our dwindling timeline to prepare an acceptable, professional performance, the answer was clear: a resounding yes! These students were showcasing the exact skills that we had been teaching them, some of them for over three years of their enrollment: collaboration, overcoming anxiety, confidence, building and relying on trusted relationships, planning, prioritizing, taking reasonable risks, believing in themselves, advocating, using tools and strategies to achieve a goal…. the list goes on and on.
The day of the ceremony came, and it was absolutely fantastic. Parents and staff worked to manage our emotions as our hearts swelled with pride. Students thought it was “cool.” Each song elicited an enthusiastic standing ovation from the audience. In those three songs, in those few minutes, they epitomized the definition of “achieving success.”
—Jody Berkey, Assistant Head of School
Board of Trustee’s Chair Letter
Head of School’s Letter
Mission Statement
Board Member Profiles: Robert Hayward, P. Frank Berry, and Leigh Neil
Furth Service and Leadership Achievement Awards
Success Stories
2024 Transition Speaker: Linden Lazarus
Equestrian Program
Facility Assistance Dogs
Gabriel Hirsch Poetry and Art Award
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CHAIR LETTER
To the Keswick School community,
I am happy to report that Keswick School continues to be strong and vital because of our outstanding professional staff and the generous support of our donors. This combination of talent and generosity enables us to improve the programs and services that make Keswick School a premier therapeutic boarding school and a wonderful option for that special boy and supportive family.
This past year, the school received gifts from an increasing number of past students and their families, as well as partner organizations. These gifts have enabled the school to retire all debt, enhance programming for students and their families, maintain the beautiful campus and facilities, invest in professional development, and offer financial aid to several families of current students. You will see in these pages some of the transformative gifts and facility improvements from this past year. But what cannot be fully captured is the joy, and yes, relief, of the families whose sons come here and begin to thrive and live into their potential.
While we are proud of the school’s success and positive example, we will not take continued success for granted. We continue investing in developing our staff, strengthening our core programs and facilities, ensuring excellent fiscal and operational management, and offering more financial aid to more families.
We are painfully aware that several specialized schools and programs have closed over the last two years. I assure you that the board and administration are proactively managing the risks and challenges schools like ours face so that Keswick School can remain the leader in our field.
On behalf of the board, thank you to everyone who has contributed to our school’s resilience and success. This extraordinary community of students, families, and staff is worthy of your support.
Sincerely,
Chair, Board of Trustees
Dear Keswick School family,
As we reflect on this past year at Keswick School, I am thrilled to share our school’s remarkable achievements and growth. As of March 2024, the school became debt-free by paying off its original loan! I’ve come to recognize the importance of a historical perspective and the legacy our school has achieved over 61 years of operation.
First and foremost, students (and their families) transitioning from the school believe they have made significant, often life-changing progress relative to their specific clinical, academic, and social-emotional outcomes. A solid educational experience affects a child’s growth and development throughout his lifetime. It is not easy for an institution of any kind to achieve this kind of success, and it’s even harder to sustain a high level of performance over a long time. Indeed, the difficulty for all schools was exacerbated over the last few years by the pandemic, high inflation, and the challenge of finding and supporting high-performing professionals. Despite these challenges, we have persevered and are stronger for it.
I recognize the importance of how these milestones are achieved and the ability to excel as a school. At Keswick School, we prioritize each student’s emotional well-being. Our commitment to fostering a supportive and transformative environment has yielded inspiring results. Students have developed coping skills, emotional intelligence, and resilience through therapeutic interventions, academics, and personalized support. They continue to navigate life’s complexities with grace and self-awareness. Every day, we’ve witnessed increased confidence and a love for learning.
The success of a therapeutic boarding school hinges on the dedication of its staff to the school’s mission. These professionals are not just employees; they are passionate advocates for the well-being and growth of each student. Their commitment to the school’s therapeutic goals ensures that every interaction, lesson, and activity is infused with purpose and care. Staff members work tirelessly to create a supportive, structured environment where students can learn and thrive. The staff inspires students to achieve their full potential by embodying the school’s values.
We thank you and want to express our deep gratitude for the unwavering support of parents and our generous donors. Please know that we truly appreciate your impact, both individually and collectively, on every aspect of the school. Your partnership has been instrumental in our students’ successes.
Gratefully,
HEAD OF SCHOOL’S LETTER
Marc Columbus Head of School
MISSION STATEMENT 2023–2024
Keswick School’s philosophy of education encompasses both academic and social/ emotional growth for each student.
We recognize that each child has his own individual capabilities, and we structure a child’s environment so that he may achieve his potential growth through the development of a positive self-concept.
We emphasize self-respect and respect for others. A positive attitude toward learning is encouraged, and social skills training is emphasized within the Keswick School program.
We encourage family involvement so that a student will carry over positive behavior to his home and community.
We remain committed to structure and nurturance, and we encourage the development of responsible, honorable behavior.
BOARD MEMBER PROFILE
ROBERT (BOB) HAYWARD
Robert (Bob) Hayward is a partner at Kirkland & Ellis LLP in Chicago. He and his wife, Liz, live in Northfield, Illinois, with their three sons. Their youngest son, Griffin, attended Keswick School from January 2019 to June 2022 and went on to attend Middlebridge School.
Bob has a B.S. degree and a J.D. degree from Northwestern University, where he serves on the Board of Trustees. He was named a “Notable Gen X Leader” by Crain’s Chicago Business in 2021 and a “Trailblazer in the Midwest” by The American Lawyer in 2022. He helped lead the team awarded “Capital Markets Practice Group of the Year” numerous times by Law 360.
Bob provides direct, thoughtful, and practical advice to publicly traded corporations—across all industries—and private equity funds and their portfolio companies in all aspects of securities, M&A, SEC compliance/ disclosure, corporate governance, stockholder activism, executive compensation, crisis management, and general corporate matters. He has extensive experience representing companies in IPOs, high-yield and investment-grade debt offerings, private financings, joint ventures, and public and private M&A transactions.
“I often get asked to join an organization because of my skills, experiences, and judgment. While that may be true here as well, Keswick is getting a more complete package. I’m not doing this alone, I’m doing this together, with Griffin and Liz, to make a difference now and for generations to come.”
“During my time with Hantzmon Wiebel, I have worked extensively with nonprofit and for profit clients and worked with Little Keswick School (now Keswick School) as the auditor and in an advisory capacity for more than 20 years.”
BOARD MEMBER PROFILE
P. FRANK BERRY
Frank Berry is a CPA and a Partner in Accounting and Auditing at Hantzmon Wiebel LLP, CPA and Advisory Services in Charlottesville.
For more than 30 years, Frank has helped his clients solve problems. He enjoys learning about new businesses and organizations and providing resources, knowledge, and strategic planning to help owners and executives gain greater control over their companies, organizations, and personal lives. Frank has expertise in costing and cost allocations, budgeting, cash flow analysis and management, and nonprofit management. He frequently conducts programs for the Center for Nonprofit Excellence.
Frank grew up in Madison County, VA, and graduated from Madison County High School. He is a graduate of James Madison University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and a minor in finance. Frank started working in public accounting in January 1985 in the Washington DC metropolitan area. He returned to Madison in 1995 and began working with Hantzmon Wiebel. He was admitted as a partner to the firm in 2006.
Frank is married to Geri, and they have two children and two stepchildren. He enjoys music and outdoor activities, including cycling, hiking, camping, kayaking, and cross-country skiing.
BOARD MEMBER PROFILE
LEIGH NEIL
Originally from Lubbock, Texas, Leigh received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in industrial engineering from Stanford University and her MBA from INSEAD in Fontainebleau, France. She has worked as a strategy and decision analysis consultant in the US and internationally, helping clients identify robust strategies and analyze choices in the face of uncertainty.
Leigh settled in Sweden in 1999. In 2005, she started an e-commerce business focused on high-quality educational toys; she sold her company in 2023. Leigh currently resides in Stockholm, where she is an independent consultant, a mentor to early-stage ventures, and a volunteer in community outreach programs for newly arrived immigrants.
Leigh is an experienced business professional with broad skills and experiences across multiple industries and countries. As a management consultant, she has helped top decision-makers in large organizations to understand, discuss, and quantify opportunities, risks, and uncertainties. As an entrepreneur, she has first-hand experience in strategic planning and operational details. She is a lifelong learner and loves tackling difficult questions, performing challenging analyses, and crafting effective communication.
Leigh’s son, Ben, attended Keswick School between 2015 and 2019. She and her husband, David, have generously supported the school over the past five years.
“As a former Keswick School parent, I have seen first-hand just how much Keswick School has meant to our son - and to our entire family. I am delighted to support the school, and honored to now serve on the LKEC Board of Trustees. I hope that I can help the school to continue its amazing (and life-changing) work with boys and their families.”
FURTH SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
One of the significant moments at the end of each year is recognizing staff and students for their accomplishments and contributions to the school. Staff are recognized in the areas of service and leadership. These awards are named for the Furth family, who established the first endowment at Keswick School to support professional development.
CLAUDIA HILDEBRAND, OFFICE MANAGER 2002–2024
Claudia Hildebrand joined the staff in November 2002 and retired at the end of the 2023-2024 school year.
THE FURTH SERVICE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD is awarded to a staff member who displays a deep commitment to the school’s mission and consistently works above and beyond the call of duty, is a role model for both students and staff, and consistently demonstrates the school’s values of commitment, perseverance, patience, and honor.
This year, the 2024 Furth Service Achievement Award was presented to three individuals who have exhibited the character and qualities of service.
Prior to coming to the school, Claudia worked as a travel agent for 30 years and did educational tours for students. This was a great asset to the school as she worked with families on travel logistics, among many other duties and responsibilities.
Claudia was a humble leader who took ownership of everything to provide the best to students, staff, and families. She was also a dedicated steward, putting the needs of others and the school before her own to continually better the community.
Claudia held many unique and vital roles that ensured the school provided the best possible service every day.
“It’s so rewarding to hear from students who have
left Keswick School and want to keep in touch with a phone call or visit.”
PETE WEATHERLY, IT SUPPORT MANAGER 2005-2024
Pete joined the staff with over 20 years of experience as a teacher. After earning his M.Ed. from the University of Virginia with a concentration in technology with special needs populations, he taught at a teachers’ college in China. Upon returning to the States, he taught special education and was a network administrator in both public and private settings.
Pete is a creative problem solver. He finds solutions and supports various technological needs that ensure students’ learning is accessible. His top priority is the safety and security of staff and students as they navigate the world through technology.
Pete works behind the scenes to understand, anticipate, and support the school’s goals and guide everyone in best technology practices. Pete volunteers at UVA Hospital in his spare time and pursues his passion for music. You can also find him and his dog Bela exploring the local trails.
“I began as a teacher at Keswick School, but transitioned to my position as Network Administrator and IT Coordinator. I fully believe in the Keswick School culture and the program, and find great joy in helping the staff and students become empowered using technology.”
JENNIFER BAILEY, LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER
Jennifer joined the Keswick community in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ohio State University and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Chicago.
Jennifer had many years of experience before coming to Keswick School. She worked at a summer camp for kids with emotional and behavioral challenges at the Sonia Shankman Orthogenic School, a residential school on the south side of Chicago.
Jennifer enjoys theater, writing, and anything involving the arts. She is a creative therapist who finds teachable moments in everyday activities and creates opportunities for students to discover their potential. One of the outlets she created for students is “Cease This Folly,” where students get to explore drama and acting as an expression of themselves.
Jennifer is a dedicated professional who tirelessly works to enrich the Keswick School community through her time and talents. She is also a passionate advocate who ensures that those she serves are equipped to meet the challenges of life with confidence and purpose.
“I was drawn to Keswick School because I enjoy working with kids and their families. My favorite aspect of our school is how we give our students the opportunity to be a part of something larger than themselves, a community, especially when a lot of them have had many experiences of not fitting in or rejection.”
THE FURTH LEADERSHIP ACHIEVEMENT AWARD is awarded to a staff member who distinguishes himself/herself through a deep professional commitment to the mission and students and who, through steadfast dedication, has provided leadership, oversight, and engagement within our community.
The 2024 Furth Leadership Award was presented to:
MARK MELLUSI, TEACHER AND WOODSHOP INSTRUCTOR
Mark attended Georgetown University, where he studied physics and English, and Virginia Tech, where he earned a master’s degree in education. Because he loved the outdoors and the possibility of helping young people make positive changes in their lives, he began his career at New Dominion School as a residential group leader, supervisor, and a classroom teacher. At the founding of the Discovery Schools of Virginia, Mark served as the school’s principal and, eventually, the CEO.
Mark is an inspiring educator who encourages students to explore the world around them with wonder, curiosity, and imagination. He is a dynamic collaborator, taking on many roles and excelling at each in service to the greater community. Mark is a thoughtful and patient mentor, spending meaningful time with individual students to support them and bring their unique potential to light.
Mark enjoys woodworking and reading and promises not to play the banjo for you under any circumstances. His favorite times are spent with his wife, Laura, their three children, a dog, and twelve chickens.
“Upon the closing of the Discovery Schools, I still felt drawn to the idea of helping young people reach their potential academically and emotionally. I believe that helping students achieve success in these realms can open up doors to an amazing future that they might not have believed was possible.”
SUCCESS STORIES
2024 TRANSITION SPEAKER
Linden Lazarus attended Keswick School from 2015–2018 and returned as this year’s speaker for the End-of-Year Awards and Transition Ceremony. His story has many ups and downs, but he described his experience as the most transformative of his life.
Linden arrived at the school as an 11-yearold and found getting accustomed to it hard. However, the overwhelming support of his family and the incredible staff made the adjustment a little easier. Over the next three years, not only did he mature physically and emotionally, but he also matured in spirit.
Linden shared that he made an unbelievable number of connections with peers and staff. He learned things about people and human nature he would not have dreamed of experiencing. He said some of his best memories were turning pens in the woodshop with Dr. Thomson or having late-night conversations with his dorm instructor, Kyle. Linden said, “The staff here made such an enormous impact on my life, and
after leaving Keswick School, their unbelievable selflessness is apparent every day.”
After transitioning almost six years ago, Linden moved to Maine to attend a boarding school. During his sophomore year, he started a business in vintage watches. He said it began as a passion and quickly became a life for him. He now lives in the Hollywood Hills, where he manages successful businesses. He leveraged a plethora of tools he learned from his time at Keswick to make that happen.
“If you really want something, you have the power to make it so. No one is more self-aware, emotionally intelligent, and in touch with their own person than you are. I now view my time at Keswick School as my superpower, a time that formed me into the person I could have only dreamed of.”
—LINDEN LAZARUS, CLASS OF 2018
Linden Lazarus, Class of 2018
EQUESTRIAN PROGRAM
While dogs and cats can offer comfort and cuddles, the equestrian program incorporates horse riding to build confidence, create a sense of control and independence, and encourage feelings of achievement. Riding also develops muscle strength and balance, and the rhythmical movements of a horse can even help relax boys when they are feeling anxious.
Tricia Neumann has spent the last two dozen years bringing boys and horses together, which she finds immensely rewarding. She thrives on being part of each student’s journey and does not limit herself to the barn when boys are initially intimidated by the horses or reluctant to participate. In those cases, she can be found eating meals in the Depot or visiting students in classrooms or their dorms to build relationships. In Tricia’s view, “the horses are doing the heavy lifting.” She sees herself as a guide and supporter.
The equestrian program is considered part of the Keswick School curriculum, so every boy must participate. During recurring threeweek periods throughout the year, students ride for an hour every school day during afternoon activities. The boys have a choice of seven horses of various breeds that have been donated to the school. Each horse has a different personality. Tricia says the boys seem to gravitate toward a horse with a personality that helps them “work out their issues and develop confidence.”
She marvels at the way boys who take to riding more easily soon feel like experts and become helpers. They notice when other boys are feeling insecure or need reminders about proper techniques. They encourage each other and, along with Tricia, provide lots of positive reinforcement to each other.
Tricia has developed expertise in creating an environment where growth unfolds naturally in the program. “Inherently, horses open the door to build confidence, empathy, and accountability,” she says. In her experience, it happens over time in small increments, with lots of trust, risk-taking, and trying what works.
FACILITY ASSISTANCE DOGS
Sometimes, the best remedy for the moment is a session with a fourlegged therapist; Keswick School is well-equipped to provide this service.
The school has promoted animal-assisted therapy since its opening in 1963. Marc Columbus brought Barter, the first facility assistance dog, to the school fourteen years ago. Because they are specifically trained to work with a wide variety of people, facility assistance dogs are a great fit. Now, the ever-popular program has expanded and includes four staff members who care for the canine crew and their other responsibilities.
Jennifer Payne is the handler of Nitro, a Golden Retriever / Yellow Labrador cross. She became interested in animal-assisted therapy in 2018. “I knew how well the boys responded to the animals on campus, and thought that being matched with a facility dog in my role as Director of Academics would allow students access to a service dog during the school day.”
She realizes now that she underestimated the impact Nitro would have on students. “He brings laughter, love, and joy daily when he greets students excitedly or does silly things like rolling around on the floor or sitting in their laps.”
Marc’s first dog, Barter, Nitro, and Tally, a new addition last spring, were all trained by Canine Companions. Tally’s caretaker handler is Adam Cieszkiewicz. Adam has been on staff since 2016 and is the residential shift supervisor.
“I thought that the residential portion of the day was perfectly suited to having a dog, as both a support for the social and emotional challenges the boys encounter there,” he says, “and as a source of companionship akin to what they might receive from a pet at home.”
When students interact with Tally, they often practice the relationship skills staff work with them to develop—communication, body language, reciprocity, and more. “Students who come to us mistrustful of adults and wary of their peers can access those things with Tally, and it opens them up a bit more to the work we do with them,” Adam adds.
Ada Haensel, a speech-language pathologist who joined the staff in 2022, brought Blue, an English Golden Retriever she already owned. “It is so rewarding to see the students connect with animals and show true compassion.”
The dogs provide a connection with students and often help open the lines of communication. Students have specifically requested to be with Blue to regulate their emotions. “Sometimes, it is hard for a student to open up to address their emotions, but they know the dogs are solid objects they can express themselves with,” she says.
Today, a total of five dogs can be found regularly around campus, including River, owned by Melissa Dagitz, Director of Admissions, and Marc’s current companion, Mika. Pet Partners trained both Blue and River. Little One, an adopted campus stray cat, found her forever home at the school after being examined by a veterinarian. The dogs and the cat join a variety of beloved wildlife regulars to bring support and joy to campus.
GABRIEL HIRSCH POETRY AND ART AWARD
From the time Gabriel first became a student at Keswick School until today, I have been impressed by the thoughtfulness and psychological expertise that go into shaping the school’s programs. This year’s theme, “Celebrate Your Impact,” is an excellent example. The poems and artwork the students created required deep introspection; the results reflect their serious explorations. To transform their inchoate emotions into poems and paintings is a gift indeed! —Janet Landay, Gabriel Hirsch’s mother
The Gabriel Hirsch poetry and art projects are highly anticipated annual events. This year’s theme was “Celebrate Your Impact,” reflecting the theme chosen for the 2023–2024 school year. The most powerful agent of change comes in the form of relationships. The students have an opportunity, unlike many of their peers elsewhere; to realize and reflect upon the impact their actions have on themselves, one another, and the community at large. This isn’t always easy; honest reflection on your impact can elicit both well-earned pride and painful humility. Either insight, though, brings value to what was experienced and presents the chance to be in charge of one’s own growth. Year after year, students bravely develop their identities by accepting new challenges and learning to celebrate the impacts of these efforts.
Through relationships and shared experiences this year, Keswick students and staff continued their mission of building identity. Each spring, students’ art and poetry provides a touching glimpse into their continued growth, and the annual creative contributions are wonderful indications of that growth. This year, the community art project was led by Jeanne Joslyn, Keswick School’s accountant assistant, who took on the challenge of sharing her gift and having an impact outside of the business office.
Students were given a chance to express themselves in a painting workshop led by Jeanne. It was amazing to see what creativity springs forth when simply invited to take a risk on a blank canvas. Each finished
product projected an impact the artist has made, wishes to make, or has felt in his life; still, this community of creations is just a glimpse at the multitudes contained in our students.
In celebration of National Poetry Month this spring, students engaged with a variety of poetic forms and voices in their language arts curricula. Students learned poetic techniques and applied them to their own writing; by the end of the unit, dozens of excellent poems aligning with the “Celebrate Your Impact” theme were submitted to the contest.
Gabriel Hirsch, like many students who attend Keswick School, worked to learn how to communicate the feelings he experienced. He embraced the power of the written word and artistic expression as vessels through which to share himself with the community, and eventually the world. Through this award and grant, students have the opportunity to find and use their unique voices, express themselves through the poetry and art they create, and have further opportunities to learn about, experience, and develop their love of poetry and art. Gabriel’s legacy continues to impact current and future Keswick School students.
The winning poem for the 2023-2024 poetry contest was “Maine,” by Andrew Peterson. In second place was “Art,” by Nico Barabash, and in third place was “The Leadership Lavender,” by Declan Andrews. Congratulations to each student for his work in the arts last spring!
Article written by Jimmy Green and Jennifer Payne
Andrew Peterson, 2024 Gabriel Hirsch Award Recipient Jimmy Green, Curriculum Specialist/Teacher
THE JOANN MCKELLAR SCHOLARSHIP
Growing up in a home where both parents worked in the same lowerincome school district, Gaillee Fitzpatrick learned a fact that has always stuck with her: When families lack adequate financial resources to access needed educational services, it can be devastating for their children.
Gaillee’s mother, JoAnn McKellar, was a school psychologist and an educational evaluator in New York. Gaillee watched her advocate tirelessly for disadvantaged and underserved children who needed services their families could often not afford.
Later, a time came when Gaillee and her husband, Neil, realized that they were the ones in need of specialized educational services. They could clearly see that typical school programs were not a good match for their younger son. Fortunately for them, they had the necessary financial resources available to obtain a diagnosis for their son, enlist the help of an educational consultant, and enroll him at Keswick School.
Once their son was enrolled, they saw how he flourished, matured, and learned from his mistakes in a nurturing and protective environment. He transitioned out of Keswick School and is now a thriving college
student. The Fitzpatricks are forever grateful for how the staff and program helped their son. He was given the space and ability to grow into himself and figure out who he was.
Gaillee’s mom, JoAnn, was a wonderful grandmother who adored both of Gaillee and Neil’s boys. She was very proud of them, especially how her younger grandson overcame his challenges. Sadly, she passed away just weeks before he completed his time at Keswick in 2019.
To honor JoAnn’s passion for promoting the welfare of all children, the Fitzpatricks decided to establish The JoAnn McKellar Scholarship at Keswick School. “It breaks her heart that families have had to leave Keswick before their son was fully ready because they could not afford it,” Gaillee said. Their generous gift to the school is designated specifically for need-based financial assistance with the hope that a more diverse spectrum of students and families can access the powerful and lifechanging treatment offered by Keswick School.
Thanks to the Fitzpatricks and Gaillee’s mother’s inspiration, Keswick School is much closer to ensuring that money is never the sole reason the boys who come to the school cannot get the help they need.
A TRIBUTE TO THE FITZPATRICKS
“My mother was always generous beyond her means. Education and mental health were important to her. I wanted to honor her and her spirit and how she lived her life.”
—GAILLEE FITZPATRICK
A special note of appreciation is expressed to Jon Roark for painting this beautiful rendition of the Fitzpatrick Depot. The Fitzpatrick Depot was completely renovated through the support of the Fitzpatricks and serves as our dining facility.
OUR DONORS
(Donations received July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024)
Keswick School became a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in 2016, which enabled those who believe in the mission of the school to support it financially and for parents and grandparents of former students to donate as an expression of gratitude for what Keswick School did for their families and their sons.
“Before Keswick, I saw no future for my son. Now, I have no doubt that he’s got the tools he needs to thrive in whatever he decides to do. Keswick changed my son forever. Even now that he’s home, he still keeps in touch with members of the staff. I never could have believed that my son would thank me for sending him to Keswick. It was rocky at first, but my son ultimately realized that Keswick turned his life around. At Keswick, my son learned what it feels like to experience success. That success is carrying him through the challenges he’s facing now that he’s home again. He’s got a quiet confidence that he didn’t have before. I know that’s entirely because of Keswick.” —Parents of a Former Student
The generosity of our donors contributes to the success of many students by supporting their families where financial need might limit their sons’ ability to enroll. It also supports the success of the staff, the programs, and the overall mission of the school.
Thank you!
Deb Rexrode, Director of Development
TRANSFORMATIVE
We are pleased to recognize the following donors for their extraordinary generosity, and acknowledge their transformational investment in Keswick School. Their gifts have supported financial aid, renovations to the Depot, professional development, and program growth.
Neil and Gaillee Fitzpatrick
Andy Eichfeld and Nancy Crowe
John and Hope Furth
Bob and Liz Hayward
LEADERSHIP
($100,000)
We are deeply grateful to these donors for their leadership gifts that help our students, our staff, and our school continue to achieve successful outcomes.
Juan and Gela Gallardo
Lisa and Drew Guevera
Leigh and David Neil
David and Stephanie Wolkoff
VISIONARY ($25,000–$99,999)
Liz Adams and Cliff Lasser
Marc and Terry Columbus
Sarah Hormel Everett and Tommy Everett
Dan and Cheri Fata
Earle MacKenzie
Bill and Marion Margulis
SUSTAINING ($10,000–$24,999)
The Jake Cassell Fund
Eric and Barbara Elowitz
Mike and Pat Inselmann
Marc Loev and Toni Hawley
Rob and Penni Roll
Virginia National Bank
Roger and Karen Winston
PARTNERS ($5,000–$9,999)
Peter and Marybeth Greene
Richards Family Foundation/Liz
Hayward
James Whitley and Scott Whitley
FRIENDS ($1,000–$4,999)
David and Pamela Byrnes
George and Deborah Conway
Corning Inc. Foundation
Ed and Anne Dixon
Peyton and Ann Humphrey
Ed Irby and Carol Dalton
Jim and May Kelly
Susan Kimmel
Janet Landay
Bruce and Laura Lazarus
Susie and Robbie Lyons
Ed and Kate McKay
Scott and Laura Montgomery
Norm and Karyn Nabhan
Michael O’Bar
Phil and Jill Plotnick
Quaker City Foundation/Collin
McNeil
Deb Rexrode
Valerie Rockefeller
Valerie Schalk
Dan Schneider and Julie Kniznik
Andrew Shields
Scot Somers
Jon Steiger
Marty C. Thomson
Bob and Deanie Unfried
Barbara Vosk and Howie Shareff
DONORS
(up to $99 9)
Abrahamse & Company Builders, Inc.
Chip and Jane Andreae
Anonymous
Jody L. Berkey
Jeanne Betancourt
Moty and Sharon Beyen
Brendon and Katie Bielat
Diane Bognich
Bob and Carolyn Brammer
Phillip Brockway
Tracy and Kevin Carter
Hope Carter
Ken Cavanagh and Deborah Hamlin
Bob and Liane Clasen
Joelene Contrucci
Alex and Melissa Dagitz
Marie-Jose Derdeyn
Linda Downs
Keith and Reggie Dunnavant
Ellen Elowitz
Jake Elowitz
Skip and Kit Fry
Mark Gaston
Michael and Lori Glasser
Scott and Debbi Goodman
Prudence Gourguechon
Marie Grant
John Greenbaum and Virginia Kling
Andrew Greenberg
Grelen Nursery, Inc./Dan Gregg and Zeke Galvin
Jacqueline Guevara
Greg Hambrick
Karin and Tom Hammond
Cheryl Hannant
Michael Harpe and Deborah Winshel
Caryn Hathaway
Nancy Hirsch
John and Mary Hoskins
Keswick Equine Clinic/Dr. Rebecca Kramer
Richard Kilberg and Barbara Margolis
Joe and Yevette Kirkpatrick
Elaine Koss
Sherri and Glen Leghorn
Howard and Joan Lewis
Faye W. Male
Amy Mawyer
Sally-Ruth May
Julia Trammell-McGill and Paul
McGill
Michele Moffat
Percy and Anne Montague
Rich and Karen Morrison
Allison Moskow
Fred and Janet Ohlde
Celia Orgel
John Outland
James Payne
Jennifer and Graham Payne
Henry Poras
Lloyd and Sue Raupp
Jeff and Theresa Rebman
Tom Rigg
Patricia Rintels
Art and Sue Scotland
Helen Sharp
John and Jean Shields
Jim and Irene Soderquist
Linda Sweet
Craig and Lori Teller
Thomas Wheel Alignment
Patrick Turner
Sam and Lisa Howe Verhovek
Nan Wallace
Steven Wayne
Phillip Weiss and Naomi Davidson
Richard Wilcox
Mary Alice Wright
GIFTS IN KIND
Blue Ridge Bank / John Chamberlin
Marc and Terry Columbus
Craig and Robin Ellis
Grelen Nursery, Inc. /
Dan Gregg and Zeke Galvin
Kevin Kornegay
Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company /
John Sampson
“We are grateful to be part of the Keswick family. We are amazed by the impressive Keswick staff, not only for their levels of professional expertise, but also for their sincere kindness, thoughtfulness, and sheer compassion for each and every boy and family at the school. It’s truly a remarkable place with extraordinary teachers, therapists and support counselors.”
—PARENT OF A FORMER STUDENT
HONORARIUMS AND MEMORIALS
HONORARIUMS
In honor of:
Joseph Esposito by Hope Carter
Nick Schlegel by Joelene Contrucci
Dr. Thomson by Keith and Reggie Dunnavant
Marc and Terry Columbus by Keith and Reggie Dunnavant
Tucker by Peter and Marybeth Greene
Jody Berkey by Jim and May Kelly
Brian Lewis by Howard and Joan Lewis
Kyle Loev by Marc Loev and Toni Hawley
Jimmy Green by Marc Loev and Toni Hawley
Marty Thomson by Norm and Karyn Nabhan
Zack Plotnik by Phil and Jill Plotnick
Chris Raupp by Lloyd and Sue Raupp
Dr. Huff by Valerie Rockefeller
Conrad Day by Valerie Schalk
Janet Landay by Nan Wallace
Janet Landay by Richard Wilcox
“The school has changed the trajectory of our son’s life and by extension the dynamic of our family. We will be forever grateful to the staff of Keswick School for the structure, love, dedication, and stability they have provided our son, and we are in constant awe of the grace and confidence with which they have done so.”
PARENT OF A CURRENT STUDENT
MEMORIALS
In memory of:
Libby Wilson by Marc and Terry Columbus
Brian Schlegel by Joelene Contrucc i
Marty Elowitz by Ellen Elowitz
Libby Wilson by Skip and Kit Fry
Libby Wilson by Mark Gaston
Michaux Grant by Marie Grant
Bob and Libby Wilson by Peyton and Ann Humphrey
Glenna MacKenzie by Earle MacKenzie
Libby Wilson by Amy Mawyer
Libby Wilson by Julia Trammell-McGill and Paul McGill
Bob and Libby Wilson by Percy and Anne Montague
Elizabeth Mary Kew Wilson by Helen Sharp
Robert Kirk Whitley (former student) by James Whitley and Scott Whitley
JOANN MCKELLAR MEMORIAL FUND
Gaillee and Neil Fitzpatrick
GABRIEL HIRSCH POETRY AND ART MEMORIAL FUND
Anonymous
Jeanne Betancourt
Linda Downs
Prudence Gourguechon
Nancy Hirsch
Sam and Lisa Howe Verhovek
Richard Kilberg and Barbara Margolis
Susan Kimmel
Elaine Koss
Janet Landay (Gabriel’s mother)
Sally-Ruth May
Celia Orgel
Linda Sweet
Nan Wallace
Phillip Weiss and Naomi Davidson
Richard Wilcox
NICHOLAS HANNANT MEMORIAL FUND
Diane Bognich
Phillip Brockway
Karin and Tom Hammond
Cheryl Hannant
Caryn Hathaway
Joe and Yevette Kirkpatrick
Sherri and Glen Leghorn
FINANCIALS
The financials listed represent the time period from July 1, 2023–June 30, 2024.
Revenue Sources
Tuition
Therapy Services
Contributions: Annual Fund
Contributions: Mortgage Payoff
Investment Income
Other Income
Total Revenue
$4,781,240.00
$537,659.00
$1,681,697.00
$2,664,436.00
$47,105.00
$18,797.00
$9,730,934.00
EXPENSES
Expenses
Salaries: Executive
Salaries: Therapeutic Professionals
Salaries: Instructional and Residential Staff
Salaries: Support Staff and Maintenance
Employee Benefits
Professional Fees
Depreciation
General Operating Expenses
Mortgage Payoff
Capital Expenditures
Total Expenses
$524,062.00
$607,540.00
$2,076,193.00
$1,003,233.00
$745,688.00
$279,814.00
$199,073.00
$1,120,226.00
$2,795,592.00
$379,512.00
$9,730,934.00
Capital Expenditures
Salaries: Executive
Salaries: Therapeutic Professionals
Salaries: Instructional and Residential Staff
Salaries: Support Staff and Maintenance Employee Benefits
BOARD MEMBERS AND ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
LITTLE KESWICK EDUCATION CORPORATION
BOARD MEMBERS
Andy Eichfeld, Chair
Frank Berry, Treasurer
Elizabeth “Liz” Adams, Trustee
Bob Hayward, Trustee
Earle MacKenzie, Trustee
Leigh Neil, Trustee
David Wolkoff, Trustee
Thomas Albro, Trustee Emeritus
Robert Stockhausen, Trustee Emeritus
Marc Columbus, Head of School, ex officio
Dr. George Conway, Advisor
KESWICK SCHOOL
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
Marc Columbus, Head of School
Jody Berkey, Assistant Head of School
Dr. Marty Thomson, Clinical Director
Dr. Deb Rexrode, Director of Development
Melissa Dagitz, Director of Admissions
Gene Lemarr, Director of Staff Development
John Outland, Director of Residential Life
Jennifer Payne, Director of Academic Services
Tom Rigg, Associate Director of Admissions
Terry Columbus, Associate Director of Development
Alex Dagitz, Academic Shift Supervisor
