Annual Fund Chairs Explain “Why GDS” Spend just a few minutes with Lori and Tyler Richardson, parents of Brant ’28, Frances ’30, and Whitten (future Bengal), and you will know very quickly that they are the epitome of Greensboro Day School cheerleaders. Lori and Tyler learned first hand what a wonderful school GDS is when Lori worked in admissions and as a teacher. Despite Lori’s history with GDS, Tyler is clear to say that their decision to send their children to the school was never automatic. “We actually looked at GDS more critically because of our knowledge of the school. We quickly found out that comparing GDS to other private schools in the area wasn’t apples to apples. Very few, if any, schools have what Greensboro Day offers: a cafeteria, a full-time nurse, 2 security guards, a 600-seat theater, 3 gymnasiums, and so much more. All of this is in addition to the exceptional community and programs that GDS offers isn’t comparable in the area.” Lori agrees, saying that “GDS offers community like no other and having students of all ages from all divisions adds to the feeling of community. Teachers and administrators are approachable, and the focus on the kids “learning at a developmentally appropriate level is phenomenal.” Because of their love of the GDS community and the dynamic education their children are receiving, Lori and Tyler are excited to serve as the Annual Fund chairs for 2017-18. “I don’t see a reason not to support the Annual Fund. Every dollar counts because they go directly to the operating needs of the school. That teacher or program you love so much? That’s because of the Annual Fund. We must raise these funds from individuals to continue to make GDS the best school in the area.” Tyler explains. “We want this community to be the very best it can be, and we are happy to serve to not only raise funds for the school but also to build relationships with the people that our children spend most of their days with. We love meeting new people, and what better way to do that then through our kids’ school?” At the end of the day, Lori and Tyler want families, alumni, and grandparents to join them by giving to the Annual Fund at an amount that makes each proud. “If we all give to the Annual Fund; it makes it so much easier on everyone. We all want the best for our kids, so we should do our part by also contributing – whether it’s $50 or $5,000.” Lori also spends time volunteering at Red Dog Farm, Greensboro Science Center, and the Greensboro Children’s Museum. Tyler is a Greensboro Day School Trustee, and also serves on Board of Trustees and Board of Governors for the Center for Creative Leadership; Board of Directors, Piedmont Trust Company; and the Board of Governors and Trustee, Smith Richardson Foundation. We are honored the Richardsons are leading the way for the Annual Fund First campaign at Greensboro Day School and appreciate their enthusiasm and love for GDS. n Annual Fund First 2017-18 By Emily Thompson 38 | Winter 2017