How the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Foundation will help bring the school’s new strategic plan to life
The 2026-31 strategic plan is guided by a focus on curiosity, global learning and leadership, according to its introduction by Executive Director Kristin Janssen and Heather Mae Donbrosky, chair of the Regional School Board.
“It affirms our responsibility to provide rigorous instruction, meaningful opportunities for research and mentorship, and a school culture grounded in The Walker Way – creativity, collaboration, community and courage,” they wrote.
For the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Foundation, that vision – “Poised for 2031 and Beyond” – also provides a blueprint for philanthropy, as the school moves into this fourth decade.
The Foundation already supports many of the experiences and opportunities reflected throughout the plan. Now, its five strategic investment areas offer an even clearer framework for aligning fundraising, alumni engagement and community partnerships with the school’s priorities over the next five years.
“Many members of our Dragon family already love and want to support this school,” said Ginger O’Neil, executive director of the Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School Foundation. “Wtih the school’s new strategic plan serving as a roadmap for the school’s priorities for the next five years, we have a lens into how the Foundation can focus our priorities.”
Here are the five pillars set by the school in its new five-year strategic plan, with insights on how the Foundation will contribute:
PILLAR 1: Financial Sustainability and Strengthened Legislative Advocacy
Strong schools require strong partnerships. The Foundation supports Maggie Walker’s long-term financial strength by engaging alumni, pursuing grants and building philanthropic support that allows the school to invest in opportunities beyond its public operating budget. It also helps strengthen relationships with legislators and community partners who play an important role in the school’s future
“As a support organization, our goals reflect the school’s priorities,” O’Neil said. “This MLWGS strategic plan gives us a clear vision to help us focus our fundraising where it can make the greatest impact.”
By continuing to fuel many of the unique opportunities and experiences that differentiate the Maggie Walker student experience, the Foundation makes it possible for the school to build stability by investing its limited dollars strategically in core educational and operational needs. At the same time, expansion of tactics such as the Foundation’s inaugural Legislators Forum on Education and Civic Engagement, held last April, will continue to educate state elected representatives about the school’s mission and outcomes, which are delivered without any federal funding, in hopes of garnering their support.
PILLAR 2: Instruction, Learning and Academic Innovation
Many of the experiences that define a Maggie Walker education happen beyond the classroom. Foundation support helps students participate in academic competitions, research, experiential learning, travel and other enrichment opportunities that challenge them to think creatively and apply what they’re learning in new ways.
The Foundation also invests in faculty excellence by funding professional development, conferences and gifted endorsements that strengthen instruction while helping attract and retain exceptional educators. “A large part of the money spent on professional development for MLWGS teachers comes from the Foundation,” O’Neil said.
PILLAR 3: Recruitment, Belonging and Honor
Creating an exceptional school experience means supporting both students and the people who teach them. The Foundation helps faculty members continue growing professionally, including with the Patricia E. Taylor Teaching Award that funds an international travel experience for one teacher annually that translates into in-classroom enrichment, while ensuring students also have access to the opportunities that make Maggie Walker unique.
From New Parent Welcomes to assistance for students facing financial barriers, Foundation support helps every student and family feel connected and able to fully participate in school life.
“Our goal is to allow Maggie Walker to provide transformational learning and to make sure all students have access to everything that is offered,” O’Neil said.
PILLAR 4: Community, Wellness and Student Experience
Maggie Walker’s greatest strength is its community.
The Foundation helps bring together students, families, alumni and other supporters through programs including New Parent Welcome, Foundation Fellows, Alumni Showcase and the annual Night of the Dragon benefit and live auction. Together, those initiatives strengthen relationships across the school’s regional community while creating opportunities for alumni and families to remain engaged long after graduation.
More than 100 volunteers support Foundation initiatives each year, reflecting the strong culture of service and connection that is at the heart of Maggie Walker.
PILLAR 5: Facilities and Technology Infrastructure
As Maggie Walker celebrates 25 years in its historic home, the Foundation is helping prepare the campus for its next chapter. One upcoming priority is a campaign to fund renovations to the school’s aging auditorium, a space used not only by students but also by community organizations and regional programs. Investment in MLWGS’ historic building and its technology infrastructure are key to helping students learn in a comfortable environment and prepare for lifelong learning beyond Maggie Walker.
Providing a Roadmap for Donor Investments
As the school looks ahead, O’Neil said its strategic plan gives Foundation donors a clearer understanding of where Maggie Walker is headed – and how their support can help move that vision forward.
“We have a new roadmap for what the school’s priorities are for the next five years,” she said. “We are weaving this into our work and fundraising strategies to generate and direct dollars where they can have the most impact.”