Support
Giving is contagious.
Philanthropy is infectious.
Once it starts, it catches on.
Thanks to the generous support of parents, faculty, staff, grandparents, trustees, and friends, Episcopal School of Nashville (ESN) continues to build on its reputation of offering a diverse, urban, and independent school education dedicated to nurturing the joy of learning and the spirit of discovery in each of our students.
Through our donors' philanthropy, ESN continues to broaden its academic programs and enhance its enrichment opportunities to shape students who are intellectually, spiritually, and responsibly engaged with the place, community, and world they call home. For 10 years, our supporters have understood the need to grow ESN and to set strategic steps in place so that tomorrow we are ready to welcome a whole new generation of students through our doors.
Episcopal School of Nashville is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) tax-deductible organization. We do not receive federal or state funding. We do, however, receive tax-deductible donations which immediately benefit each student and faculty member by enriching all current academic and co-curricular programs, including resources, up-to-date technology, and exceptional offerings from arts to athletics.
We invite you to support our annual fundraising program, events, and our students who call ESN their school.
Thank you for your commitment to our students, families, and our school.
Annual Giving Categories
Visionaries
$1,000,000
Epiphany Circle
$100,000
Leadership Guild
$50,000
Founders Circle
$25,000
Scholars Circle
$10,000
Community Builders
$5,000
Head of School
$2,500
Sustainers Circle
$1,000
Purple Martin Society
$500
Chapel Society
$250
Circle of Friends
$1
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’S)
Please contact our Director of Development, Judi North, or call 615-928-8661 x 5203, with any questions about donating to ESN.
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Since its founding, supporters of the Episcopal School of Nashville have recognized the importance of providing an exceptional independent school option in East Nashville—one that nurtures academic excellence, spiritual growth, and a strong sense of community.
As an independent school, the Episcopal School of Nashville does not receive federal, state, or local government funding. While tuition provides essential operational support, it does not fully cover the true cost of an independent school education. To bridge this gap and ensure a rich, well-rounded experience for every student, we rely on generous contributions to our Annual Fund First.
The Annual Fund First supports key priorities such as need-based financial aid, faculty development, and campus improvements. These gifts help us remain accessible, invest in the best educators, and provide outstanding programs that shape the student experience today and strengthen the school for tomorrow.
When independent schools ask for gifts beyond tuition, they are inviting families and friends to be active partners in fulfilling the school's mission. Without the generosity of donors, no school can fully achieve its goals. Philanthropy ensures that the best-trained, most committed adults are available to help students become everything they are meant to be.
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One hundred percent parent participation in the annual fund is a key indicator that our parents support ESN’s culture of philanthropy. It is a community-wide call to action that creates momentum and inspires others to support the school to the best of their ability. This metric is also critically important as we seek corporate and foundation support.
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Annual Fund First donations help provide technology, books, program supplies, social and emotional learning, testing and assessments, ILP preparation, and class field trips, as well as supporting our need-based financial aid recipients.
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Yes—every gift matters. Episcopal School of Nashville values contributions of $1.00 and above, and we deeply appreciate supporters who give at a level that is meaningful for them. When individuals and families give to the best of their ability, it builds a strong culture of generosity and shared commitment.
High participation rates among parents, and community members also help us secure larger gifts from foundations and corporate sponsors. These partners look closely at community involvement when considering major funding opportunities.
When you contribute to the Annual Fund, you're part of a collective effort that directly supports our students, faculty, and programs—no matter the size of your gift.
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ItYes, absolutely. We respect all requests for anonymity. You may designate your gift as anonymous on our online giving form or by including a note with your mailed donation. All anonymous contributions are handled with the utmost discretion by our Office of Development.
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Gifts may be made by:
Check
drop off at the front desk or mail to:Episcopal School of Nashville
ATTN: Development Office
1310 Ordway Place
Nashville, TN 37206Stock
Gifts of appreciated securities, publicly traded or closely held stock are an easy way to support Episcopal School of Nashville, and often create tax savings for you. A wire transfer is the easiest way to make a gift of stock. Please contact the Judi North, Director of Development for detailed information.
Credit Card / Direct Debits
Give or pledge securely online. -
The best time to support ESN is during our Annual Fund First campaign, which kicks off each fall. You may make your gift at any time during the school year or submit a pledge to be fulfilled by May 30. Early participation helps the school plan effectively and demonstrates strong community support.
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Community gifts to the Annual Fund First directly support Episcopal School of Nashville’s operating budget and have an immediate impact on every aspect of the school—from classroom resources and faculty salaries to student programs and financial aid. We ask all parents, friends and community supporters to consider a tax-deductible gift to the Annual Fund First as a primary expression of their support for ESN’s mission and day-to-day excellence.
Throughout the academic year, the Parents Association coordinates community-building events that enrich the experiences of both students and faculty. These events often include opportunities for families to purchase snacks, drinks, or meals, with all proceeds directly supporting the Parents Association’s mission. Funds raised go toward showing appreciation for our dedicated faculty and staff and supporting their daily efforts on behalf of our students.
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You can absolutely make a gift in honor or in memory of someone special. Our online giving form includes a section where you can indicate your tribute and provide any relevant details. If you prefer to mail your gift, simply include a note specifying your dedication and any instructions you’d like us to follow.
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Yes, all gifts to the Episcopal School of Nashville are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Each donation is acknowledged with a thank-you letter and a formal receipt, which you may use for your tax records. Contributions are also recognized in our Annual Report, published each fall.
Episcopal School of Nashville is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (Tax ID: 47-1887747). Please consult your tax advisor for specific guidance related to your gift.
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The Episcopal School of Nashville’s Annual Fund First initiative supports current-year operational costs—things like classroom resources, student programs, and faculty salaries.
Major Gift campaigns, Capital campaigns and Endowment campaigns are conducted periodically when significant investments are needed for long-term growth. These may include major projects such as facility construction or renovation, faculty chair programs, or building endowments to support areas like financial aid and faculty professional development.
Each plays a vital role in sustaining and advancing the school’s mission.
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Endowment gifts are lasting contributions that support the Episcopal School of Nashville’s mission in perpetuity. These gifts are invested, with a portion of the earnings used annually to fund specific priorities such as financial aid, faculty support, or academic programs, while the principal remains intact to grow over time. Endowment gifts represent an enormous trust in the school’s future, providing long-term support and ensuring fiscal stability. By making an endowment gift, you help to provide the school with budget flexibility, while also securing the continued excellence of its programs for generations to come.
There are several ways to make an endowment gift:
Outright Gift: Contribute cash, stock, or other assets directly to an established endowment fund.
Named Endowment Fund: With a minimum commitment of $50,000 or more, you may establish a named fund to honor a loved one, family, or legacy. Donors may choose to designate how the fund is used—either by restricting it to a specific purpose (such as financial aid, faculty support, or a particular program), or by allowing the school to use the funds where they are needed most through an unrestricted designation.
Planned Gift: Include ESN in your estate planning to leave a legacy through a bequest, charitable trust, or other planned gift.
Multi-Year Pledge: Build your endowment gift over time by making a commitment fulfilled through annual installments over a five-year period.
To discuss your options or to create a lasting impact through endowment, please contact the Office of Development.
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Planned gifts are a meaningful way to leave a lasting legacy at the Episcopal School of Nashville. You can include ESN in your estate plans through a bequest, charitable trust, or other giving vehicles that align with your financial and philanthropic goals.
To explore your options or to create a lasting impact through endowment or planned giving, please contact the Office of Development. We are happy to assist you in finding the best approach for your intentions.
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Leadership Giving at the Episcopal School of Nashville recognizes donors who contribute $2,500 or more annually. These generous gifts have a significant impact on our programs and operations.
Leadership donors receive special acknowledgment in our Annual Report,communications programming, and may be invited to exclusive events and programming as a sign of our gratitude and appreciation for their investment in the school’s mission.
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Episcopal School of Nashville’s list of top priorities:
Financial Aid - We recognize the importance of financial accessibility for all families and are able to provide support to more than XX% of our students.
Capital Campaigns - ESN continuously looks to enhance space and programs for current and future students. Reach out to the Development Office if you are interested in supporting ongoing capital campaigns.
Faculty Chairs - This program is designed to support faculty members who provide peer coaching and collaboration, share expertise and best practices to enhance instruction.
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Yes, Episcopal School of Nashville is a designated agency with the United Way. To direct your gift to ESN, simply list Episcopal School of Nashville as your organization of choice on your United Way contribution form.