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Headmaster Charlie Britton and Board of Trustees President Arthur Adler ‘78 have announced the successful completion of The McDonogh Forever Campaign, which surpassed its $75 million goal, raising $80,074,190. With the remarkable conclusion of The McDonogh Forever Campaign, the largest of any independent school in Maryland, McDonogh is positioned to build on its foundation of excellence and provide the best possible educational experience for generations to come.

“In four short years, The McDonogh Forever Campaign has truly transformed our campus,” said Britton. “The support of our community is a testament to their common desire for McDonogh to exist forever in mind, in purpose, and in physical presence. And we are 'forever' grateful.”

When formally announced in 2010, The McDonogh Forever Campaign’s historic goal was to fund construction projects in the school’s campus master plan. Additionally, it was established to support the annual fund, which is vital to the day-to-day operations of the school, as well as fund endowment for financial aid, faculty salaries, professional development, and academic and extracurricular programs. At the time, McDonogh had already received lead gifts and commitments totaling $58 million, allowing construction to begin.

Irvin S. Naylor ’54 and his family provided a lead gift to fund an Upper School building dedicated to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines. Now, innovative teaching and learning is taking place every day in the 30,000 square foot Naylor Building, which opened in August 2013.

Local businessman Edward St. John, a past McDonogh parent, pledged funds towards a student center that would nurture the relationships and community that are so important at McDonogh. Today, the 71,398 square foot Edward St. John Student Center is the home of two dining halls, fine and performing arts studios, the Tuttle Gallery, a 171-seat lyceum, and an updated infirmary.

Campaign co-chair Henry A. Rosenberg, Jr. ’48 made a lead gift to fund a campus green which will connect legacy buildings from his student days to the Edward St. John Student Center and the Naylor Building. The Henry A. Rosenberg, Jr. Campus Green will be completed in the fall of 2014. In addition to the lead gifts, the campaign received an unparalleled $30 million matching gift from the Rollins- Luetkemeyer Foundation.

“McDonogh School began 138 years ago with a bequest from Baltimore-born businessman John McDonogh,” explained Rosenberg. “His gift led to the establishment of our school, and since then McDonogh has survived and thrived in the same way it began—through philanthropy.”

In addition to surpassing its goal, The McDonogh Forever Campaign was completed a year earlier than anticipated.

“From day one, the construction schedule was thoughtful in terms of timing, safety and quality,” said Adler ‘78. “As we wrap up the McDonogh Forever Campaign, it is exciting to have been part of the greatest transformation at McDonogh since the Great Depression.”

Both the student center and the STEM building were designed by Bowie Gridley Architects, and the contractor for the projects and associated site work was The Mullan Contracting Company.

Campaign co-chair Howard Klein said, “The McDonogh Forever Campaign is about leaving the school better than we found it. Thanks to the generosity of those who believe in the mission and future of McDonogh, I believe we have achieved that goal and more.”

For more information about The McDonogh Forever Campaign, please visit: www.mcdono gh.org/campaign/wedidit/.