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Memphis University School is a college-preparcultivation of service and leadership, and the development of wstrong moral character, consistent with the school’s Christian trMission StatementMemphis University School6191 Park AvenueMemphis, TN 38119(901) 260-1353musowls.orgBRIGHTVISIONBOLDFUTURETHE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLFor more information, contact Director of Advancement Perry Dement.perry.dement@musowls.org I (901) 260-1353BRIGHTVISIONBOLDFUTURE
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THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 3As we stand here, 130 years since the founding of MemphisUniversity School, our vision is focused on the decades atour doorstep. We know the campus must evolve to continuedelivering a mission that must never change – preparing boysfor college, leadership, and lives imbued with the values setforth in our Community Creed: truth and honor, scholarship,service, respect, humility, involvement, and accountability.Our Strategic Plan demands both allegiance and action in itsvery name: Legacy Forward.Thus, we join together as supporters of MUS to shape thefuture for our boys as we pave the way for the organizations,cities, and regions they will shape. Through the campaign’sambitious goals, we will transform our campus, recruit andretain the best faculty, broaden our reach, and enrich ourstudent experience.By replacing or enhancing 40- to 60-year-old buildings, we will create a more dynamic campus that rises to the level ofour superb faculty, facilities designed to support vibrant andcollaborative learning experiences for generations to come.By strengthening our financial sustainability and providing financial assistance through the endowment, we will stayaffordable in the Mid-South market and secure the futurefor every mission-appropriate student interested in thetransformative MUS education. We will expand internshipand leadership opportunities, providing hands-on learningexperiences that connect boys – and the school – to theprofessional and philanthropic community beyond our gates.Through Bold Vision Bright Future, we have the opportunity to participate in the school’s most enduring attribute: A strivingfor excellence in all things.p. 3“The Mid-South – indeed, the world – needs Memphis University School. Thisinstitution and its alumni have had profound influence on their communities. Nowis the time to assure that the campus, its teachers, and its programs continue toserve as a beacon of excellence for future generations.”Peter D. Sanders, Headmaster (2017-Present)
Legacy Forward
p. 6 p. 7THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLTRUTHANDWhen Ben Adams ’01 and Harrison Ford ’01 anticipated that campus construction in 2001 might lessen the connection to their beloved school, they joined with other students and faculty to identify the timeless principles that define the MUS experience. Adopted by the Class of 2001, the tenets of their Community Creed are interwoven into every aspect of Memphis University School.Educated in an atmosphere that not only prepares boys for college but also cultivates leadership, character, and service, these students were empowered to put their thoughts into action. Their efforts are not unusual. Generations of students have made their mark at 6191 Park Avenue and gone on to transform their industries, professions, and communities. Memphis would be a far different place without MUS and the 60% of its alumni who return to enhance the city. Owl influence is evident throughout the Mid-South – just look at FedEx and AutoZone, the city’s medical, financial, and legal professions. Witness the renaissance of Downtown, Midtown, the Snuff District, the Poplar Corridor, and more. In the Memphis region, the country, and around the globe, alumni and the companies they have led employ hundreds of thousands and underwrite philanthropic endeavors in community service, education, and the arts.MEMPHIS-AREA ALUMNI ARE CORPORATE OFFICERS – PRESIDENTS, VICE PRESIDENTS, CEOS, CFOS, COOS, CONTROLLERS, OR OWNERS – OF LOCAL COMPANIESNONPROFIT BOARD SEATS HELD BY LOCAL ALUMNI486572An MUS student tells the truth, does his own work, honors his commitments, and respects the property of others and of the school.“MUS is a school for a lifetime, and one of our community’s most important leadership academies. Look around at this city’s business executives, lawyers, doctors, and philanthropic leadership, and you see MUS everywhere – MUS is leadership in Memphis.”P. Trowbridge Gillespie, Jr. ’65, Board of Trustees Member, Chair 2004-2008Scan to learn how MUS alumni have helped transform Memphis and the world. p. 6
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 6 p. 7HONORTRUTHANDp. 6
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 9p. 8RESPECTAn MUS student is courteous and kind and appreciates everyone in his community.Hyde Chapel, built 1962Humphreys Administrative Wing, dedicated 1971Campus taking shape as seen in this aerial photo circa 1971
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 9p. 8RESPECTTodd-Snowden Gym, built 1956 through 1958 Classroom hallway with wooden archesEdwin Sidney Werts and James White Sheffey Rhea knew it well: Educating young men is an investment in tomorrow. Their Memphis University School, founded in 1893, was dedicated to illuminating boys through a liberal arts education and developing gentlemen of character. Reigniting the flame following The Great Depression, Col. Ross McCain Lynn and other visionaries dreamed dreams, gathered supporters, and planned a new MUS based on the founding principles and built on philanthropy. Initiating a top-notch curriculum and a culture based on excellence and honor, these trailblazers created a school – on 94 acres of pastureland – that has set the educational standard for boys in the Mid-South to this day. And if, as Emerson suggested in Self-Reliance, “An institution is the lengthened shadow of one man,” then perhaps MUS still looks a good bit like the Colonel. With deep gratitude, we acknowledge the innumerable contributions of generations of insightful leaders, teachers, parents, and alumni who have put their ideas, hard work, and resources into the school we know today – an incubator turning boys into men who enhance the world around them. We recognize our responsibility to live up to our history of strong leadership and wise stewardship so the next generation can look back with the same appreciation.“We try to develop character, for in the final analysis if you haven’t got character, it doesn’t really matter whether you know mathematics or history.”Col. Ross M. Lynn, Headmaster 1955-1978An MUS student contributes his time and abilities to the welfare of his school and of the greater community.SERVICE
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 10 p. 11Now is the time forVISIONBOLD
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 10 p. 11Nearly a quarter-century ago, our last capital campaign raised more than $15 million for transformational campus improvements,including construction of the Upper School and the Campus Center, structures that continue to serve us well.Today, other functional but dated parts of campus – buildings that have hosted Owls for 40 to 60 years – present obstacles that facultymust overcome to fully equip students with the knowledge and skills required for college and career. Our Legacy Forward Strategic Plan prioritizes key investments that will elevate campus facilities to a level commensurate with the school’s excellence. Growing theendowment will bolster the goals of the plan, providing resources to stimulate creativity and assure sustainability.p. 11VISIONBOLD
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 12 p. 13SCHOLARSHIPTHE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 12Scan to access the Community Impact Report.View from the east - Admissions entranceOpportunities to Make a Difference Building a Bright Future Transformational capital projects will create dynamic academic, arts, athletic, and communal spaces where Owls can experience new opportunities and achieve even greater success.Our campaign encompasses two strategic areas:1 2Accomplishing these goals will further the MUS mission of providing the best college-preparatory and character-building education for Mid-South boys while developing visionary leaders for communities near and far. Sustaining the Mission Growing the endowment will safeguard our school’s financial future and promote institutional agility, strengthening every aspect of school life.
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 12 p. 13SCHOLAR SHIPAn MUS student actively seeks knowledge and understanding, and he encourages that pursuit among his classmates.p. 12
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 15Building aBRIGHTFUTURE
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 15p. 15It is time for MUS to invest in our infrastructure and transform our campus so it meets the curricular, technological, and design standards expected at a premier independent school. Through thoughtful planning and significant philanthropy, investments in our 94-acre campus will ensure the school provides a superior learning and teaching experience that will serve boys for generations. Major construction will be prioritized to address a hierarchy of needs, with the Arts and Sciences Building in the first phase, followed by the Lower School, the Library and Technology Center, and the Indoor Turf Field Building and Fitness Center in later phases.Scan to learn how faculty members and students will benefit from new facilities.BRIGHTFUTURE
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 16 p. 17p. 16 Challenge In the 44 years since our building was constructed, much has changed in the sciences. Our ScienceCenter was built to accommodate Biology, Chemistry, andPhysics. We’re now teaching subjects that were research-level four decades ago – Molecular Biology, MaterialsScience, Environmental Science, and Robotics. Additionalcourse offerings coupled with increased enrollment haveexerted significant strains on space and schedules. Biologyand Chemistry share cramped lab spaces, dissectionsoccur outdoors because of poor ventilation, and MaterialsScience class is left to meet in whichever lab might beavailable. Lower School Robotics students must construct,program, and operate their robots in half a classroom. Opportunity We provide leading-edge science courses, and our students and faculty will benefit from commensurateclassroom, lab, and office spaces. A new Science Center withexpanded lab space will afford students more opportunitiesfor experiments, research, and robotics construction andprogramming, giving them an even greater advantage incollege-level science and engineering. Flexibility of spacewill allow teachers across disciplines to collaborate andcreate projects that span the curriculum. A well-designed,contemporary building will also demonstrate to visitors ourdedication to the advancement of the science disciplines. SCIENCE CENTER WITH SPACE FOR EXPERIMENTATIONWest entrance to Science Centerp. 17p. 17
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 16 p. 17p. 16 p. 17p. 17LIBRARY AND TECHNOLOGY CENTERAS CAMPUS HUBChallenge Our Library and Learning Center, constructed in 1970, no longer offers an educational environment designedfor today’s teaching practices. The building is not ADA-compliant and is experiencing the effects of a half-centuryof continuous use. Similarly, the current Technology Centerdoes not meet modern information technology standards. Opportunity A blended technology and library hub at the center of campus will address current and future needs. Thecenter will provide an open and adaptable space that willfacilitate both individualized and collaborative learning andevolve with technological advancements, so students areprepared for a world of digitization, artificial intelligence,increasing automation, and all that comes next.LOWER SCHOOL THAT SUPPORTSTHE MISSION Challenge Built in 1970, the Lower School was once a cutting-edge facility. As class enrollments have grown from80 to over 100, small classrooms in the aging structurepresent scheduling difficulties. Limited office and meetingspaces leave little room for small-group or one-on-oneinstruction and discussions – practices that foster thebuilding of relationships among students and faculty thatare integral to the MUS experience. Opportunity As Memphis University School has grown to serve even more students, investment in the Lower Schoolwill ensure spacious environments designed for middle-school learning and interaction – room for projects andcollaboration, places where students can move and interact.Adding meeting spaces will help create a more collegialatmosphere and ensure that the first impression for mostfamilies will be a building that conveys and supports MUSexcellence.East campus courtyard
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 18 p. 19CENTER FOR THE ARTS TO NURTURE CREATIVITY Challenge Over the last five years, the exponential growth of the music program includes a full orchestra along with wind and chamber ensembles. Our musicians rehearse in the athletics film room and struggle to fit on the chapel stage for performances. Our theater program lacks cutting-edge technology; our chapel – built in 1962 – is not ADA compliant; and there is no loading dock for the transfer of shop and set materials. Our visual art facility – two retrofitted basement rooms – houses 250 students in areas with little natural light or storage and limited workspace. Opportunity For years MUS has found creative solutions to ensure that arts education is a curricular priority. With a new Center for the Arts, we can more deeply cultivate the artistic inclinations of our students, and we can better engage the community with more robust opportunities for our celebrated exhibits, performances, and productions. Research correlates participation in the arts to higher levels of academic achievement, thinking skills, and motivation, not to mention creativity and cultural literacy. Moreover, the arts are central to achieving the school’s mission of developing well-rounded young men.ACCOUNT ABILITYAn MUS student takes responsibility for his actions and accepts their consequences.p. 18Auditorium entrance
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 18 p. 19ACCOUNT-ABILITYACCOUNTABILITYp. 18
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 20 p. 21HUMILITYMORE SPACE TO TRAIN, PLAY, AND COMPETE Challenge We provide excellent athletic programs, but our commitment to promoting lifelong personal fitness and enhanced training requires more space than currently available. Site limitations present scheduling difficulties, and weather frequently hinders practices. Moreover, our facilities do not compare favorably with those of other area independent and suburban public schools. Opportunity An indoor, turfed practice area with an enlarged fitness center and sports medicine space will greatly enhance our athletics and physical education programs. The ability to practice indoors in any weather will improve safety and, with increased practice time, raise our level of competitiveness. It is important that our athletics match the high standards in academics, arts, and individual development. p. 20Fitness Center and Field House
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 20 p. 21p. 21HUMILITYAn MUS student may be confident but never arrogant or boastful.p. 20
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 22 p. 23p. 22In addition to the capital projects, MUS has an opportunityto invest in the bright future of our school by growingthe endowment. A robust, wisely managed endowmentis the bedrock of successful schools, the institutions thatset standards and sustain greatness over generations.Memphis University School is such an institution.By increasing the endowment from our current $50 million,MUS will secure its foundation and gain the flexibility andfreedom to develop and enhance programs and curriculum.New resources will confirm our commitment to the school’sliberal arts tradition while enhancing the ability to preparestudents for success in an ever-changing professional andindustrial landscape.This campaign provides donors with opportunities to investin programs and facilities that are meaningful to them.Endowment is a perennial investment in MUS, its students,its faculty … and in the Memphis community. The goalguiding our investment and spending strategy is tobalance present and future needs. A carefully governedand professionally managed fund allows MUS to sustainan annual percentage draw and maintain the endowment’spurchasing power over time.The Board of Trustees Finance/Endowment Committeeensures that investments are consistent, conservative, anddiversified. By following best practices for endowmentsbeing managed for sustainable growth, MUS will remain atthe forefront in educational standards.Portraits lining the Dining Hall, commissioned by our Alumni Executive Board,are a testament to alumni reverence for their teachers and coaches. We knowthe names well through memory or legend: Leigh MacQueen, John MurrySpringfield, Bill Hatchett, Jake Rudolph, Betty Jo Higgs, Skip Daniel, MikeDeaderick, Jerry Peters, John Harkins, Jim Russell, Andy Saunders, TerryShelton, Peter Bowman, John Hiltonsmith, Reginald Dalle, Vince Mutzi, andBill Taylor. Endowment support will help us continue to recruit and retainexceptional teachers whose portraits will one day grace the Dining Hall gallery.Scan to learn about the legendary teachers and coachesenshrined in our gallery.SUSTAINING OUR MISSION
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 22 p. 23p. 22Growing the endowment, in service to our mission, paves the way for the school to reachnew heights in several key areas:1.Attract the best and brightest young men in the Mid-South regardless of their abilityto pay. MUS provided $2.8 million in financial aid to nearly one-third of our students in2021-22, and only 53% of this $2.8 million was supported by our current endowment. Theother 47% was drawn from the Annual Fund and the operating budget, placing stress onthe day-to-day operations. Increasing endowed funding for need-based financial aid willfree up critical operating funds.2. Keep MUS affordable in the Mid-South market. Adequate endowment will facilitate ashift from a budget-driven financial model to a revenue-driven model, thus assuring long-term sustainability. Tuition covers only 76% of the cost of an MUS education. The balanceis subsidized by the endowment (12%), Annual Fund (8%), and auxiliary services such asticket and bookstore sales (4%). Increasing the endowment offers the greatest opportunityto keep tuition affordable.3. Recruit and retain faculty who are outstanding in their fields by ensuring competitivesalaries and providing opportunities for professional growth and development. Theoutstanding teachers of MUS are the heart of the school. Their passion for their subjectsand genuine care for the boys ignite a love for learning in students. Like generations ofgreat MUS teachers before them, they view teaching as a hallowed responsibility, an artto be refined over a lifetime. Through their authenticity, they bond with students, many ofwhom return often to visit. Goals include the following:Creating compensation and recruitment programs that enable the hiring and retention of the best faculty and staff.Increasing the number of endowed chairs to reward excellent teaching.Endowing additional funds to support professional development.4. Enhance programs in academics, arts, athletics, leadership, and social-emotionallearning through additional program-specific endowments. Goals include the following: Ensuring that the MUS student experience fosters community and global citizenship through expanded opportunities for internships and leadership.Broadening the curriculum to incorporate proven practices in secondary education while preserving the school’s time-honored liberal arts tradition.Reinforcing a healthy, inclusive school climate that promotes physical, mental, and social-emotional wellness by optimizing counseling and academic support programs.Creating more opportunities for students interested in the arts.p. 23$2.8 M47%IN FINANCIAL AID AWARDED TO NEARLY ONE-THIRD OF OUR STUDENTSIN 2021-22OF THIS $2.8 MILLION WAS SUPPORTEDBY OUR CURRENT ENDOWMENTOF THE $2.8 MILLION WAS DRAWNFROM THE ANNUAL FUND ANDTHE OPERATING BUDGETOF MUS EDUCATION IS COVEREDBY TUITION53%76%“Endowment is an engine forcreativity and growth, not justa financial backstop. It gives usfreedom to take on challenges.”Peter D. Sanders, Headmaster
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 24 p. 25INVOLVE MENTAn MUS student develops leadership, cooperation, communication, self-discipline, and friendships in activities outside the classroom.p. 24
THE CAMPAIGN FOR MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY SCHOOLp. 26 p. 27JOIN OUR BOLD, BRIGHT FUTURE.Since the school’s founding, Memphis University School visionaries have sown the seeds for the great school our students now enjoy. Through Bold Vision Bright Future, we have the opportunity to plant investments now that will grow and strengthen over the years, providing for the MUS boys of tomorrow. As our mission demands, we will enhance the hallmark experiences that support academic excellence, cultivation of service and leadership, and the development of well-rounded young men of strong moral character. And the virtues of our motto, Veritas Honorque, will connect every element of the campaign. Memphis and the world need scholars, creators, and leaders imbued with this sense of truth and honor, as well as scholarship, service, respect, humility, involvement, and accountability. We count on you and other visionary supporters in our community to take on our Bold Vision and prepare our boys for a Bright Future. Now is the time. Help lead the way.“I want future generations of boys to enjoy MUS, and I want them to have an MUS even better than the one we have today.”Ellis L. Haguewood, Headmaster (1995-2017), Teacher (1969-2016)p. 26p. 26Scan to learn how U marks the spot where boys in the Mid-South receive a superior education that prepares them for college, career, and life. East campus view from Park Avenue
$150 million $50 million CAMUS MAINTENANCE $200 million