Donor Profile: John and Marsha Kleinheinz
Parents of Marguerite '08 Support Middle Income Initiative
November 13, 2009
This fall, John and Marsha Kleinheinz, parents of Marguerite Kleinheinz ’08, donated $2 million to Episcopal’s Middle Income Initiative. Episcopal recently launched this significant effort to raise financial aid funding in support of its middle-income families and students as part of the early phase of a comprehensive capital campaign, named “The Promise.” The Kleinheinz’s generous gift provides a cornerstone for this undertaking.
Why did you choose to send Marguerite ’08 to EHS?
We didn’t choose EHS for Marguerite – she did. Marguerite came home from summer camp before 8th grade and told us that she wanted to go away for high school. We were a little surprised, since none of her family had gone to boarding school, but we encouraged her to do some research. She decided she wanted to attend EHS immediately after her visit there.
What is your philanthropic philosophy?
It differs depending on whether we are giving locally and also depending on the cause. In general, we give to organizations that have had an impact on our lives and/or the lives of our children. Marsha and I also help fund initiatives when we know the people behind them are committed to an important cause. Education and the arts are the main focus of our giving right now.
Why did you feel it was important to support Episcopal’s Middle Income Initiative in particular?
I know from my own experience that middle class families are under tremendous financial pressure when it comes to educating their children, mainly because public schools often can’t cater to really gifted students. Even with an income of $150,000 to $200,000 per annum, there is almost no way a family today can afford to send three children to private school without some financial assi
Why is it important to make sure middle income families have access to Episcopal?
Ultimately, EHS will benefit more from this middle income initiative than the students themselves, because middle class academic achievers are the most driven segment of society. They will become important leaders and innovators – it has always been that way in America. If you look at the individuals who have given the most back to EHS, many would probably describe themselves as middle class kids that were able to succeed because of the quality of education they received.
You are past members of Episcopal’s Advisory Council. Why did you feel it was important for you to volunteer your time to the School?
Just because Marguerite was 2,000 miles away, we weren’t going to miss the chance to be involved with her education!
What does Episcopal High School mean to Marguerite? To you?
A lot of things, but mostly it was an opportunity for Marguerite to become more independent while getting exposure to the outside world, as well as making LOTS of new friends. Just seeing how well she is doing as a freshman in college this year, I know that EHS had a tremendous influence. From a parental standpoint, we made great lasting friendships with other EHS families.
Tell us your favorite EHS experience.
One of many highlights was when we visited Marguerite during her EHS summer program in Spain. We enjoyed spending time with her and her classmates in Segovia and Madrid.
Finally, tell us some things we probably don’t know about you!
Marsha is part Choctaw Indian. I am one of seven kids and grew up in Oregon. If invited somewhere, we will show up on time.
