Institutional Advancement

Frequently Asked Questions About the Annual Fund

Why does Barrie fundraise, isn’t tuition enough?

As an independent school, Barrie does not receive any financial support from national, state or local government, and relies solely on tuition fees and proceeds from fundraising to meet operating expenses. Tuition alone does not cover the cost of a Barrie education. By keeping Barrie’s tuition competitive, every student in the school is subsidized by the annual fund.

What is the Annual Fund?

The Annual Fund, the primary fundraising vehicle for Barrie, generates the critical component of the School’s operating budget. By keeping Barrie tuition increases to a minimum, Barrie is able to: offer financial aid to students; attract and retain highly experienced and qualified faculty and administrators with competitive salaries and benefits; upgrade technology; and provide professional staff development to faculty.

Why is participation important?

A voluntary contribution is a tangible way that demonstrates your commitment to Barrie, and to insure that current Barrie students continue to receive an excellent and well-rounded education. In addition, when Barrie seeks grant support from foundations and corporations, and major donor support, the level of support and the percentage of participation participation are used to measure the strength and vitality of Barrie. By making Barrie a philanthropic priority, you insure that our students spend their days in an enriching, nurturing, enlightening, and safe environment.

Why are unrestricted gifts important?

Each year, Barrie depends upon unrestricted gifts to help fund ongoing programs, projects, unanticipated expenses or areas of urgent need and opportunity, or operational costs all of which directly benefit our students. Unrestricted gifts are contributions that are not designated for a specific purpose.

What role do Alumni and Alumni Parents play in fundraising?

Graduates of independent schools, and their parents, have traditionally continued to support their alma mater and that of their children, with Annual Fund contributions and other types of financial support. This philanthropic tradition has a long history in independent schools, colleges and universities in the United States. Alumni have long supported their schools in appreciation for the education they received and to support future generations of students.

For additional information, please contact: Jason Fasteau, Director of Annual Fund at 301.576.2836.