(L-R) Roxanne Murphy '70, Faculty Council Chair; Kenneth I. Chenault '69, Chairman and CEO of American Express and Honorary Campaign Chair; Susan Braun, School Administrator; John D. Miller, Campaign Chair; and William Jennings, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Waldorf School of Garden City. Philanthropist John D. Miller along with Chairman & CEO of American Express Kenneth I. Chenault lead campaign to raise funds for the Waldorf School of Garden City

Garden City, NY, September 28-Alumni, parents, faculty and friends of the Waldorf School of Garden City gathered in Quogue at the home of Kristin and John Miller on Sunday, September 25, 2005 to celebrate the launch of the school's first capital campaign. With infectious enthusiasm, a number of high-profile individuals and families have donated tremendous energy and resources towards advancing this unique independent school on Long Island.

At the end of the event, brief words were offered by Campaign Chair John D. Miller, Board Chair William Jennings and Honorary Campaign Chair Kenneth I. Chenault. Chairman and CEO of American Express, as well as a member of the graduating class of 1969, Mr. Chenault's address emphasized the type of students that the Waldorf School graduates, noting that they are individuals grounded in strong values and beliefs, open to ideas and diversity, and willing to take risks, pointing out that these are all qualities necessary for success in today's world.

Plans for campaign funds include renovation of the library, main entrance and high school lobby by the distinguished architectural firm of Bentel & Bentel, as well as restoration and renewal of the school's New Hampshire extension campus. Initial benefits of the campaign were already visible this September with the arrival of new ergonomically-designed desks and chairs in every classroom. In addition to capital improvements, the capital campaign will significantly increase Waldorf's Scholarship & Endowment Fund, ensuring for the future the socioeconomic diversity which is a hallmark of the school.

With a substantial portion of the campaign goal already raised through leadership contributions, Sunday's kickoff was an opportunity for the entire school community to become involved in this historic school initiative.

The Waldorf School of Garden City is accredited by the New York State Association of Independent Schools and the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA). The Waldorf School offers classes from Early Childhood through Grade 12.

For more information about the school, please call 742-3434 ext. 129 or visit www.waldorfgarden.org. Plan to attend the Open House on Saturday, October 15, 10:00 am-12:30 pm.