Forward, Always Forward A Campaign for Benedictine Military School
summer
2021
FINISHING STRONG The Forward, Always Forward Capital Campaign has surpassed $18 million and nears the finish line.
“W
e are rounding the final turn and it is going to be a sprint for the finish line. Our goal is to raise the final $3 million by the end of 2021 and to celebrate the closure of this visionary campaign,” says Headmaster Father Frank Ziemkiewicz, O.S.B. “It is incredible to see how the generosity of the Benedictine family has transformed our school. Our academic facilities, curriculum, technology, athletic fields, scholarships, and endowment have all been greatly enhanced during the campaign.
Some of the major improvements include the complete renovation of our ‘B’ Wing classrooms in Brent Hall; the 19,000 sq. ft. construction of our Brown STEM wing; the installation of the synthetic turf sports field named in honor of our own Father Albert Bickerstaff; and the creation of the new Class of 1976 Athletic Plaza which contains a concession stand, washroom facilities, and athletic commons area. None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our parents, alumni, and many friends who believe in the mission of Benedictine Military School. These positive changes are creating a better version of Benedictine for the current and future Cadets and families we serve.” Over one thousand members of the Benedictine family have generously contributed $18 million to the Forward, Always Forward Capital Campaign. This comprehensive endeavor has been the most significant fundraising campaign in the history of the school. It has been built on a strong, conservative foundation of financial stability adding no long-term debt to the school. Father Frank explains that planning is underway for the final project of the Forward, Always Forward Capital Campaign- parking, security, and campus entrance. “Our efforts are now focused on this conclusive, but incredibly important development which will serve many purposes, most significantly the expansion of our parking spaces from 210 to 431. A handsome new fence with brick columns and black railing will refine the entrance which has not changed much since the Seawright Drive campus originally opened in the fall of 1963. This plan will also greatly enhance the campus’ security, its environmental endowment and curb appeal. Beyond a doubt, this is a mammoth project. That said, we see it as critical to the safety of our Cadets, the enhanced aesthetics of the campus and the much-needed parking expansion. It is a critical first step in the planning of a future stadium complex,” he says.
The Academic Building is undergoing some remarkable improvements over the summer. Each of the classrooms in the former “C” Wing and the remaining classrooms in “A” Wing will be completely updated with new energy efficient LED lighting, marmoleum flooring, fresh paint, new desks, and furniture. Each classroom will be equipped with a new touch screen white board television. Our JROTC classrooms, History classrooms, Robotics lab, Physics Lab, Art Lab, and Film room will look like new again. Even the restrooms in the Academic Well will finally receive a much-needed face-lift. This complete remodel will feature a new layout with updated fixtures, paint, and flooring. Perhaps the most important impact of the Forward, Always Forward Capital Campaign is the fact that it has galvanized the Benedictine community. “Parents, alumni, Board members, faculty, friends, and businesses have all come together to drive the school forward. Their significant investments demonstrate their love, passion, and belief for Benedictine. Our alumni and parents can walk around campus and see the transformation for themselves. The board set out with a vision for the future of Benedictine and we are watching it come to fruition right before our eyes. These much need improvements will have a direct impact of the lives of our current and future students for generations. We are so fortunate that so many people believe in the values that are taught here at Benedictine. Without their trust and support, this would not be possible,” says Father Frank.