Wheaton Academy launches public phase of ‘For Generations to Come’ capital campaign
Wheaton Academy is launching the public phase of its “For Generations to Come” capital campaign. This ambitious initiative seeks to raise $30 million to fund the construction of innovative new spaces on campus, marking a significant milestone in the academy’s 170-year history of providing Christian education.
To date, the campaign has successfully garnered $26.7 million in contributions, thanks to the generosity of over 100 partners. With the public phase now underway, Wheaton Academy aims to raise the remaining $3.3 million by June 4.
The campaign was initially propelled by a lead gift of $6 million from Joe and Mary Slawek, setting a record for the largest donation in Wheaton Academy’s history.
Following the Slawek’s visionary contribution, numerous individuals and families have joined the effort, demonstrating their commitment to the Academy’s mission.
Innovative new spaces
Campaign funding will expand Wheaton Academy’s Academic Building with 43,000 square feet of new and remodeled space including:
• A video production and broadcast studio to elevate the academy’s award-winning video program
• A business center where students will learn to apply Biblical ethics in the marketplace
• A student union to cultivate connection and community
• An expanded IDEA Lab to serve as the school’s technology incubator
• Fourteen new flexible learning spaces
• A Cross Plaza to visibly proclaim the school’s commitment to Christ
A campaign rooted in mission
“The ‘For Generations to Come’ campaign is more than a building project — it’s an investment in the holistic development of young people who will lead with integrity, creativity, and a heart for Christ’s kingdom. These new spaces are not just about the physical expansion of our campus,” said Head of School Steve Bult. “They are about deepening our commitment to nurturing growth in students through relationships, excellence, and service to the glory of God.”
Principal Kori Hockett adds, “This new space will allow our teachers to do what they do best. It will release them from spatial restraints so they can focus on nurturing students and building innovative programs. We aim to prepare students to thrive as kingdom-builders in a rapidly changing world.”
The launch of the campaign’s public phase coincides with Wheaton Academy’s annual spring musical, “Newsies.”
During musical season, school parents, alumni, and visitors flock to the school to see the show and celebrate the school’s performing arts community.
Join the mission
Head of School Steve Bult concludes, “Wheaton Academy invites friends, families, alumni, and supporters to be a part of this transformative chapter in its history. Every gift, no matter the size, contributes to a legacy that will empower generations of students to impact the world for Christ.”
To learn more about the ‘For Generations to Come’ capital campaign and explore renderings of the new space, please visit forgenerationstocomecampaign.com.
About Wheaton Academy
Wheaton Academy is a private, Christian high school located in West Chicago. Founded in 1853, the academy is dedicated to providing a college-preparatory education grounded in a Christ-centered worldview.