The Shipley Fund

THE SHIPLEY FUND

The Shipley Fund is our top philanthropic priority. These unrestricted gifts touch every aspect of school life—supporting teachers, students, and programs in every corner of campus. The Shipley Fund is in everything we do and we can not operate without it.

Impact at a Glance

  • Shipley’s Greatest Needs
    Directs resources where they are most needed, helping complete the student experience.
  • Program Support
    Includes the Arts, Athletics, STEAM, and other exceptional academic experiences.
  • Colleague Support
    Funds professional development, enrichment, and competitive salaries and benefits for Shipley’s dedicated faculty and staff.
  • Tuition Assistance
    Maintains a robust program and supports a diverse community by providing access for students who otherwise could not afford Shipley.
  • Belonging & Connection
    Strengthens programs that help all members of the Shipley community thrive in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Every Gift Matters

In the 2025-2026 fiscal year

$243,000 raised in gifts of $1,000 or less
53% of all gifts to The Shipley Fund were under $100

 

Make a Gift Now

How to Give

Get Involved

Fundraising Events

Leadership Giving

Leadership at Shipley means stepping forward with generosity and vision. 

Our Leadership Society members—passionate parents, alumni, parents of alumni, and friends—make a significant philanthropic commitment to ensure the School’s success.

Leadership Society
  • Speer Patrons
    $30,000+
  • Brownell Benefactors
    $20,000 – $29,999
  • Howland Fellows
    $10,000 – $19,999
  • Blue & Green Guardians
    $5,000 – $9,999
  • Epes Advocates
    $3,000 – $4,999
  • Founders’ Associates
    $1,894 – $2,999
Young Alumni Leaders
  • Within 20 years of graduation
    $1,000+
  • Within 15 years
    $500+
  • Within 10 years
    $250+

 

Shipley leadership team

 

Membership in the Leadership Society begins at $1,894. These donors are honored in Shipley’s Gratitude Report and invited to a special reception with the Head of School.

When you join the Leadership Council with a gift of $1,894 or more, you become part of a dedicated network of supporters who:

  • Provide over 75% of Shipley’s annual contributed support.
  • Invest in Shipley’s strategic direction and long-term strength.
  • Shape the student and faculty experience today—and nurture the inspiring leaders of tomorrow.
     
Leadership donors contributed 75% of all dollars raised in 2024-2025.
 

Acorn & Oak Society

Rooted in one of Shipley’s most cherished traditions

Pairing our youngest Little Acorns with our graduating Mighty Oaks—the Acorn & Oak Society celebrates the loyal donors whose steadfast generosity strengthens our community year after year. Members are recognized after five consecutive years of giving, a meaningful milestone that reflects deep commitment to Shipley’s mission and values.

By joining the Acorn & Oak Society, donors affirm the enduring impact Shipley has on students, alumni, parents, and colleagues—and their role in ensuring that future generations continue to be known, challenged, inspired, and supported. Loyalty and generosity are not just traditions here; they are essential to the life of the School.