Endowments and Capital Projects | Portsmouth Abbey School, Rhode Island

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endowments & capital projects

 

Capital and endowment gifts are long-term investments in the future of Portsmouth Abbey School. These strategic contributions support the growth and sustainability of our programs, people, and campus—ensuring that we can continue to fulfill our mission for generations to come.

Unlike Annual Fund gifts, which provide essential yearly support for current operations, capital and endowment gifts strengthen the foundation of the School. Whether enhancing our physical campus or growing our endowment, these gifts reflect a deep commitment to the enduring values of a Portsmouth Abbey education and our Benedictine tradition of stewardship and thoughtful planning.

Thanks to the generosity of alumni, parents, parents of alumni, and friends—along with capital appreciation and disciplined financial management—our endowment is at an all-time high. It now provides 7–8% of the School’s annual operating income, playing a vital role in our long-term financial health.

If you are interested in learning more about capital or endowment giving, please contact the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs at 401.643.1269.

We have so much to celebrate—remarkable achievements made possible by the extraordinary generosity of our community through endowment and capital giving.
achievements include: 
  • Construction of a new Student Center and Tuck Shop
  • Upgrades to the track and fitness center, including a new scoreboard and press box
  • Creation of a welcoming new entryway at the top of the lane
  • Completion of a $20 million, 34,000-square-foot Science Center with seven labs and seven classrooms (opened in 2019)
  • Construction of two new student residences: St. Brigid’s (girls) and St. Martin’s (boys)
  • Development of 13 new faculty residences through acquisition and new construction
  • Establishment of the School’s first four endowed faculty chairs
  • Restoration of the Church of St. Gregory the Great
  • $5.5 million in endowed scholarship funding
  • Over $2.6 million endowed to support specific academic programs
These initiatives have enabled us to:
  • Shift the Balance: Strategically grow our boarding community to exceed a 75%/25% boarding-to-day student ratio, enriching campus life and deepening connections.
  • Build a Dream Team: Attract, inspire, and retain exceptional educators, staff, and leaders who bring passion, purpose, and excellence to our school.
  • Center Our Spirit: Reaffirm the vital role of faith and shared worship as the heart of our community and daily life.
  • Open Doors Wider: Expand access for top-tier applicants by removing financial barriers—ensuring talent and potential are what matter most.
  • Lead in Learning: Deliver a truly comprehensive, interdisciplinary academic experience that prepares students to thrive in a complex, interconnected world.
  • Champion Well-Being: Elevate the physical, emotional, and mental health of all students through holistic support and innovative wellness programs.
Endowment funding is a critical component of every financially sound independent school. 

Unrestricted endowment gifts reduce our reliance on tuition, giving Portsmouth Abbey School the flexibility to innovate and grow. Thanks to the generosity of alumni, parents, and friends—as well as strong investment performance and disciplined stewardship—our endowment is at an all-time high, contributing 7% of the School’s annual operating income.

Your endowment support strengthens the School’s foundation for the future while directly benefiting today’s students. Endowment income provides lasting resources that empower our faculty, staff, and monastic community to guide students in their pursuit of knowledge and grace.

endowment giving opportunities

Endowed gifts provide lasting support for Portsmouth Abbey School and can be directed to areas that reflect your values and interests:

Unrestricted Endowment: Allows the Board of Directors to allocate funds where they are most needed.

Scholarship Funds: Help provide financial aid to over 35% of our student body.

Faculty Support: Includes endowed chairs, professional development, departmental resources, and faculty salaries.

Student Life & Programs: Supports athletics, library resources, lectures, community service, spiritual life, and more.

Endowed Annual Funds: Sustain a donor’s legacy of annual giving in perpetuity.

making your endowed gift

You can make an endowed gift through several methods:

  • Cash or Check
  • Credit Card
  • Securities: Often a tax-efficient way to give. Follow these instructions to transfer securities.
  • Planned Gifts: Include bequests, trusts, or retirement plans. These gifts may offer tax advantages and qualify you for membership in the Hall Manor Society, our legacy giving society.

To discuss endowed giving opportunities or contribute to an existing fund, please contact the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs at 401.643.1269.