MAKING A DIFFERENCE

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It surely is an amazing time for Trinity-Pawling. Over the past four years, the School has raised $43 million, helped build endowment, and transformed campus with 11 new faculty homes, new tennis courts, and Coratti Field. This month, we’ll break ground on the first phase of the Smith Field House. “It’s just the beginning!” says Regan LaFontaine, who has enthusiastically accepted the role as Interim Director of Advancement. “Headmaster Taylor is working to invigorate the School’s curriculum and we’re working to complement the innovative curricular changes with facility improvements and vital endowment funds to support Trinity-Pawling’s long-term health and goals,” LaFontaine outlines.

LaFontaine, a Choate grad and Michigander, attributes her passion for fundraising to her own boarding school experience. “My time at Choate was my most transformative educational experience. Because of that I was naturally drawn to work in a similar environment,” LaFontaine explains. “Every day is different and you get to meet the most interesting alumni and parents. You’re helping make a difference in the lives of the students, faculty, and the campus itself, and that is very rewarding.”

Along with her experience in education, the role that perhaps most prepared LaFontaine for her new role was that of an Oscar Mayer Wienermobile driver or “Hotdogger”. Shortly after college, LaFontaine lived on the road for a year as “Regan Relish” and brought goodwill to people in 32 states around the country. Through this experience, she met many interesting people and learned how to be a road warrior.

As for her goals as Interim Director of Advancement, LaFontaine says “My greatest hope is to continue the momentum we’ve created these past four years. I hope my experience will bring a fresh perspective to help us continue to find ways to develop a culture of philanthropic support and in turn, raise more money for the School. We owe it to the entire community to help make Trinity-Pawling the best it can be through a robust academic program, top-notch facilities and a sustainable endowment.”