One of Shorecrest's greatest assets is our Community, specifically our behind-the-scenes volunteers. We asked long time community member and SCA Board member, Mandy Rutledge, to share what it means to be a part of the Shorecrest Community.
How long have you been a member of the Shorecrest community and what were some of your first impressions of the school/family community?
Our family has been a part of the Shorecrest community for 10 years. We moved our younger children, Will '20 and Kate '24, to SPS when Kate was in Kindergarten. Kate’s now a freshman in the Upper School! Our first impressions were excellent academics, professionalism and a welcoming community. Later we moved our oldest, Emily '18, to SPS for high school.
We now have 2 Shorecrest graduates! Will is a freshman and student-athlete on the baseball team at Allegheny College in Pennsylvania and Emily is a Junior at Wake Forest University majoring in Communications and Psychology with a concentration in Public Advocacy and a Minor in Italian Language and Culture. She’s applying to graduate school to earn her way to a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Shorecrest has given our children an excellent foundation and opportunity to further their academic, athletic and professional pursuits.
What made you decide to get involved with SCA?
I’ve always had respect for SCA and the servant leaders who give their time. Like many things in life… there’s a season. I was thrilled to be approached by a prior SCA leader about joining the Board. In one of the COVID silver linings, I’m grounded from my usual business travel, which means I have the opportunity to serve… so I took it!
How has becoming a board member of SCA deepened your relationship with the school and with other parents/volunteers?
Being a board member of SCA has given me an entirely new perspective and empathy for the school and the other parents/volunteers who are giving their all to advocate for the best interest of our kids and our school. It’s been a real privilege to see so many committed, passionate people collaborate for the betterment of our community.
Talk about some of the impactful ways SCA supports and celebrates the community:
This has been an interesting year to work with SCA, as everything is different. It’s been most impactful for me to witness the resilience of our Board in finding ways forward to support and celebrate the community. Whether it’s celebrating our new Head of School on her birthday, recognition of our amazing faculty through teacher appreciation, or encouraging new ideas and innovation for giving, this team is committed! It’s inspirational.
Why do you think it is important to give back (in time, talent, and treasure) at Shorecrest?
I’m a Maya Angelou fan, and I think she stated it well when she gave her perspective on giving: “When you learn, teach; when you get, give." I view giving back as an important responsibility and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to do so. When I think of investments I make in my life, there’s none more important than investing in our children.
Show your love and support by making a gift:
Reflective of your student’s class year (i.e., 2021 = $20.21)
In honor of someone who has positively impacted your Shorecrest experience. (i.e. a teacher who has made a challenging year easier)
A gift of any size will help us reach our goal of 100% current family participation.
