From the Chair of the Board of Trustees

What a momentous year for Rowland Hall! From launching our new vision statement and strategic priorities to our high enrollment and strong financial position, we have much to be proud of—and even more to look forward to as we continue to set the standard for teaching and learning excellence.

With the assistance of faculty, staff, and administration representatives, the Board of Trustees approved a new vision statement and strategic priorities to guide the school in the coming years. The vision—Developing People the World Needs— succinctly captures Rowland Hall’s raison d’etre and charge, benefiting our community now and preparing our students for their lives beyond Rowland Hall.

Rowland Hall’s enrollment has never been stronger. We finished the year with 993 students, and our projected enrollment for 2022–2023 is over 1,030 students—more than 25 students above the school’s previous high-water mark. Inquiries and applications are at an all-time high. Attrition is at an all-time low. We have waiting pools in most grades.

Driven by strong enrollment, generous giving, and thoughtful planning, Rowland Hall’s financial condition is better than ever. We exceeded our Annual Fund goal of $1 million (with 100 percent participation by faculty and staff), and Rowland Hall’s endowment reached $20 million for the first time. The school continues to be debt free. Our solid balance sheet enables immediate action on, among other things, the strategic priorities.

Finally, following a year-long deep dive into existing campus plans, the Board of Trustees approved the school’s pursuit of the goal to unite Rowland Hall on one campus. The reimagined plans include simultaneously building a new Middle School and Upper School, including performing arts and STEM spaces as well as an athletic complex, on the Richard R. Steiner Campus. The school will be working with our architects to finalize building and construction plans over the next year. Ultimately, philanthropy will be critical to the project’s success. Earlier this year, I created an ad hoc campaign committee of trustees to partner with the school’s advancement team in pursuit of our fundraising goals, and we’ve received positive responses and support for our plans from donors in the Rowland Hall community.

There is much to celebrate, and I look forward to what we will continue to achieve together.

Christopher Von Maack ’97 Chair of the Board