Ignite: The Campaign for Loyola Blakefield
Loyola Blakefield is embarking upon the most ambitious fundraising effort in its history. Ignite: The Campaign for Loyola Blakefield will result in the construction of a new Innovative Learning Center, investment in the endowment, and bolster annual giving. The total fundraising goal for Ignite is $27 million. Through its efforts during the silent phase of the campaign, Loyola has secured over $23 million in commitments. The public portion seeks to surpass the $27 million mark.
“We have been here for nearly 170 years and are proud to offer an unrivaled Jesuit educational experience in the Catholic tradition,” said Anthony Day, President. “This campaign paves the way for the next 170 years and s that we are not only offering the highest quality education but doing so in a way that creates access and affordability.”
The centerpiece of the campaign is a 50,000 sq. ft. academic building, which will serve as the new home for students in grades 6–8. The building will also include a learning commons, art studio, and laboratories for cyber science & robotics. “One of the most exciting aspects of the new construction is a unification of our campus,” said John Marinacci, Principal. “It will increase opportunities for faculty collaboration and bring students from every grade level in closer proximity—a model that allows for our upper school students to model the way for our younger Dons.” A construction timeline will be established once fundraising goals are met.
President Day highlights the significance of investing in the school’s endowment. “We currently offer need or merit-based scholarships to 60% of our families,” said Day. “Growing the endowment provides us an opportunity to grant more assistance to families with financial need so that the dream of their son attending Loyola can become a reality. I’m inspired by the many donors who so eagerly committed to this portion of the campaign.”
The campaign is co-chaired by Bill Stromberg ’78 (President & Chief Executive Officer, T. Rowe Price) and Joe Sullivan (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Legg Mason, Inc.). Both are proud parents of Loyola graduates. “I have witnessed the incredible results of the formation that occurs at Loyola,” said Stromberg. “As an alumnus, I’m excited about the future of my alma mater and eager to bring others into the fold. Ignite is a game-changer for Loyola.”
“This is a critical moment in the history of the school,” said Sullivan. “We are creating a learning environment where boys do not simply study art or science—they become artists and scientists. Loyola is going to witness plenty of success down the road, but fully embracing this big moment is going to have an extraordinary impact for generations to come.”
Sharon Stanton and her husband, John, are members of the campaign leadership team, serving as co-chairs of the alumni parent & grandparent division. “Our sons benefited from the unique formational experience that Loyola provides—one that equipped them with the education and values necessary not only to succeed, but to succeed as true men for others,” said Stanton. “Ignite will enable tremendous innovations in the classroom and help ensure that talented young men from a variety of different backgrounds continue to have access to a life-changing educational experience.”
Track our progress, donate, and learn more here.
