January 16, 2019

There are freethinkers, free spirits, risk takers, right makers, dreamers, and doers who are standing up to support Together, We Dream. Here is one story that explains why. Meet Sheri Lyons ’86, an MPA parent of an alumna and a member of the first graduating class at MPA.

What impact do you see the completion of Together, We Dream: The Campaign for MPA having on your family?
It will benefit our family for generations to come.

Why do you choose to give to Together, We Dream?
I believe that the completion of this project is a culmination of the vision that began over 35 years ago. I am excited to see it come to fruition.

Why do you choose to give to Together, We Dream even though you and your daughter have graduated?
As a member of the first graduating class at MPA, I feel that this campaign will complete the vision that the founders had for our community, and benefit all future generations of students!

How do you see the four priorities (library, commons, cafeteria, and kitchen, endowment, and outdoor track) of Together, We Dream impacting the student experience?
The Library and Cafeteria are the only remaining original spaces at MPA. The fact that they were outdated 30 years ago, when I was a student, should speak volumes about the need for change.

What is your dream for the future of MPA and how do you see Together, We Dream working toward your dream?
I feel that the building that Mounds Park Academy is housed in should reflect the progressive and forward thinking ideas the teachers and administration impart to its students.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your MPA experience?
One of the main reasons that I chose MPA for my daughter is that the mission and vision that a group of educators had for this school 30 years ago, is still present in its halls today.

Honor where we’ve been. Power our way forward. Make a gift at moundsparkacademy.org/donate/together.  

January 15, 2019

There are freethinkers, free spirits, risk takers, right makers, dreamers, and doers who are standing up to support Together, We Dream. Here is one story that explains why. Meet Jim and Nansee Greeley, parents of alumni. Nansee was a longtime faculty member and administrator. 

What impact do you see the completion of Together, We Dream: The Campaign for MPA having on your family? Our family will not be using the new facilities, but will enjoy the fact that present and future students will benefit greatly.

Why do you choose to give to Together, We Dream and the MPA Fund? MPA has been a part of our life since its inception. We love to see it continue to flourish.

How do you see the four priorities (library, commons, cafeteria, and kitchen, endowment, and outdoor track) of Together, We Dream impacting the student experience?
MPA students are in the cafeteria daily. It is important that they have an inviting space for lunch. In this day and age of technology, it is important that we provide students time to interact with each other without the distraction of phones and computers. The kitchen upgrade will insure the continuance of healthy, appealing lunches. Libraries have evolved into something much more than a receptacle for books. This new library will allow and encourage a broad use of the facility.

What is your dream for the future of MPA and how do you see Together, We Dream working toward your dream?
My dream for MPA is that it will continue to be the child-centered school it has always been. These new changes will simply facilitate this type of learning.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your MPA experience?
I have been a part of MPA since it first opened its doors. It has been a vital part of our family for all of these years.

Honor where we’ve been. Power our way forward. Make a gift at moundsparkacademy.org/donate/together.

January 11, 2019

There are freethinkers, free spirits, risk takers, right makers, dreamers, and doers who are standing up to support Together, We Dream. Here is one story that explains why. Meet Beth Finch, MPA parent, parent of alumni, and trustee.

What impact do you see the completion of Together, We Dream: The Campaign for MPA having on your family?
The satisfaction of knowing MPA is continuing to serve families in a meaningful and impactful way.

Why do you choose to give to Together, We Dream?
We feel compelled to support this campaign because for nearly 12 years we have considered MPA an important part of our family. MPA has nurtured and partnered with us in an incredibly profound way.

Why do you choose to give to Together, We Dream even though your children have graduated?
We are grateful for the many touchpoints. The teachers and community have provided unparalleled commitment to our children.

How do you see the four priorities (library, commons, cafeteria, and kitchen, endowment, and outdoor track) of Together, We Dream impacting the student experience?
Community is an important element of the MPA experience. Elevating these core areas allows further growth in this area. And the endowment ensures the sustainability for generations; there’s value in knowing MPA will continue to serve families.

What is your dream for the future of MPA and how do you see Together, We Dream working toward your dream?
My dream is to experience the outcome of this community; witnessing how MPA students contribute to our broader community and world.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your MPA experience?
I am grateful for how the teachers nurtured our children and how the community became a focal part of our family.

Honor where we’ve been. Power our way forward. Make a gift at moundsparkacademy.org/donate/together.