FACE Foundation Name Change

The Fond du Lac Area Catholic Education Foundation, Inc. announced it will change its name to the St. Mary’s Springs Academy Foundation, Inc.  The Foundation has operated and managed the investment of endowed gifts, donations and bequests since 2008 when the St. Mary’s Springs High School Foundation and the Fond du Lac Area Catholic Education System Endowment Fund were combined.  The Foundation is principally supported by the alumni, parents, friends and other benefactors of the SMSA and area Catholic communities.

The Foundation’s role and primary focus is to invest funds in a professionally managed portfolio which provides substantial and continuing financial support to the St. Mary’s Springs Academy mission that is consistent with the donors’ intent. With over $5 million in assets, and a majority of funds currently endowed to support tuition assistance, professional development, and system operations, the Foundation has awarded over $2,075,893 in grants to the SMSA K-12 system. This aid directly impacts the students, families and staff members of the Academy.

Foundation Board Chair, Dean Zakos, stated that “the name change clarifies and strengthens the message that the purpose of the Foundation is to support the ongoing growth and development of St. Mary’s Springs Academy.  The Foundation Board of Directors has worked closely with SMSA leadership to identify opportunities to better coordinate and plan solicitation of donations that are in alignment with the efforts of the Academy.” 

Kelly Norton, President of SMSA, shares that “the Foundation serves as a wonderful opportunity for individuals interested in supporting Catholic education today and over the long term.” Norton explains that this includes areas such as beginning a named scholarship, investing in the ongoing professional  growth of Catholic educators, helping to offset the operational budget needs of the system, or including the Foundation in will and estate planning. “An investment in the Foundation is a gift that keeps giving,” explains Norton, “and can provide a profound and positive influence on Catholic education well into the future.” 

For decades, St. Mary’s Springs Academy has continually raised the bar for Catholic education. The new PreK – grade 12 campus offers a state-of-the-art technology infrastructure and global accreditation. SMSA’s goal is to offer a Catholic education system that transforms Christian leaders for the 21^st Century—coupling a rigorous curriculum with Catholic-enriched, servant-leadership teachings. In turn, the education provided at SMSA is focused on development of the whole child—mind and spirit.  The SMSA of tomorrow has been a century in the making, and SMSA strives to provide innovative opportunities for all students to be engaged in their education.  Additionally, the institution works hard to provide all families with financial support—offering nearly $300,000 in annual financial aid/tuition assistance.