The foundation had the courage to hire a part-time fundraising coordinator last year. That person is me. I took this job because Washburn is my family’s neighborhood high school, I believe in the mission of excellence for urban public schools. My oldest son Riley will be a Miller next year…
The campaign has been successful so far – we’ve had some good successes – a good case statement, some good publicity, a good Kick-off last October, a film that gets at the heart of Washburn today, a new website, a successful board transition, and we’ve cultivated some good prospects with Miller alumni. We’re planning what will be a cool event this spring – the First Annual Miller Music Fest. And we’re creating new committees, creating more opportunities for service from volunteers.
The key to this work is our continuing ability to reconnect Washburn’s stakeholders back to the school – alumni, parents, students, community, staff. Connection comes first, giving comes second.
So, it’s happening… the school really is transforming before our eyes. Carol and the staff are doing it, but they need our help if the excellence gap is to be truly filled. Everyone likes a good “comeback” story… I think Washburn is the sleepy giant waking up. When it fully wakes, it won’t be the school it used to be. I think it will be better, an urban school where diversity thrives, and everyone is challenged. This is model our community needs.
Come join us – give a financial gift (you can do it right here online even), join a committee. And let’s have some fun!
David Buck
Washburn High School Foundation
612-308-9394
