The oak tree has always been a symbol of strength, majesty and longevity. Its vast root system spreads throughout the soil ensuring the strongest foundation in the face of the mightiest winds and precarious storms. It climbs to the highest heights and soars above the ground for all to see its grace and beauty. And oak trees often live for centuries as a reminder to generations of both a storied past and hopeful future.
As Oakcrest enters this exciting new phase in its history, it is fitting that we look to the mighty oak to inspire our community in the coming years. A 40-year-old oak may seem to have reached its peak when in reality it has only begun its journey and will grow for decades if not centuries into the future. In the same way Oakcrest embarks on the next 40 years of its history with a desire to build resources and reach many more young women and families that will benefit from an Oakcrest education.
An oak tree is only as strong as the foundation on which it stands. Likewise, in the coming years, Oakcrest plans to build and solidify our financial footing for the future. We will work with our community to support these efforts to strengthen academic resources and support faculty development. Similarly, Oakcrest is committed to serve a diverse community of families from many different socio-economic backgrounds. In order to do so we hope to develop more scholarships and grow tuition assistance that will enable Oakcrest to attract qualified students who will flourish because of the preparation for life they will receive here.
As we celebrate the completion of the first phase of our permanent campus we look forward to the second phase of our capital campaign. With the ongoing generosity of our friends, families and community it will fund additional classroom, athletic, theater and conference space that will enhance the holistic experience our girls enjoy at Oakcrest.
Finally, we hope to establish deep roots that strengthen Oakcrest’s mission and reach for many years in the future. With that in mind, we will be growing an endowment in the coming years.
Inspired by the generosity and example of Debbie Duffy, one of Oakcrest’s most committed and generous benefactors, we have established the Dorothy E. Duffy Endowment Fund and will look to our community to help it grow and support Oakcrest’s vision for many generations to come.
St. Josemaria Escriva once said, “Dream and your dreams will fall short.” In order to ensure that Oakcrest remains a place where our dreams are inspired, nurtured, and pursued I am proud to announce the “Dreams for Her Future” campaign. This 5-year comprehensive campaign will be the foundation upon which Oakcrest builds enrollment, a strong financial footing and 21st-century resources for parents, faculty, and students. I am confident that, with your support and inspiration, Oakcrest will continue to be a force for good in our society. And, like the mighty oak, our students will be strong, stand tall and become beacons of truth and beauty that our world so urgently needs.
Warm regards,
Mary T. Ortiz, PhD.
Head of School