Athletic Complex Capital Campaign
Together, we can do it.
Thornton has launched a capital campaign to raise funds in support of the construction of an athletic complex. Linnell Gymnasium, built in 1963, now serves a student population that has more than doubled and no longer meets the needs of our students or the community. The addition of a new field house and the renovation of an existing facility into a strength and conditioning athletic center will dramatically change and enhance the way that Thornton Academy is able to provide health and wellness programming while also supporting thriving athletic programs.
The new athletic complex will allow our Wellness Department to build on their programming, which already includes an Exercise Science Track that is not currently available at other schools in Maine. With the addition of these new facilities, TA will be able to provide individualized training to students, from athletes to those who are simply interested in a healthier lifestyle. In anticipation of this project, our Wellness Department faculty have earned certifications in personal training, strength and conditioning, youth fitness, lifespan coaching, exercise therapy, sports nutrition, exercise recovery, and DNA-based fitness.
RENEWED FUNDRAISING CHALLENGE
Construction and material costs have risen significantly since the project planning began. While we surpassed our original $3 million goal, an additional $500,000 is needed to offset these increases. As you may know, Thornton Academy does not receive tax-payer funding in support of capital projects. We must rely on the generosity of our alumni, friends, parents, community foundations, and businesses to fund new construction and maintain our campus.
THANK YOU to all of our alumni, friends, parents and community organizations who have supported this exciting project.
If you have not yet made a gift in support of the campaign, it's not too late. There are still many opportunities to invest in the future of TA!
For more information or to make a gift to build the future of Thornton Academy, please contact:
Jennifer Day, Director of Development
(207) 602-4404
jennifer.day@thorntonacademy.org
Why I Give
The Thornton community gave me a lot as a young person. I feel fortunate to be able to give back to a wonderful institution.
David sherman '59
Being the class of 2018 class president I had the honor of helping chose the class gift. After asking fellow classmates and respected teachers we decided to contribute to the capital campaign. It creates better opportunities for future students during school and various sporting events. Thornton Academy is an integral part of our town, and the new gym will bring the growing community of Saco closer together.
erin fralley '18
Thornton is a major asset of the community so investing in TA to help Saco as a whole makes sense to me. This project is the next major step in a very well thought out and executed plan that has included new classrooms, dorms to accommodate residential students, and a new STEM center. I am very confident in the future of this institution and its long term positive influence on my old hometown.
roger miles '65
Of course, academics are a priority for me, but the gym is my home after school. Participation in athletics is an incredibly important part of my TA experience. It has offered discipline, friendship, and has helped to define my goals after graduation.
mia taranko '20
As a professional athlete, I know how having access to premier athletic facilities can change your life. Both my mother and my grandfather are Thornton Academy grads, and I’m proud that this school, that’s so important to my family, will be constructing the new Athletic Complex to give Thornton Academy students access to premier athletic facilities.
Julia marino, US olympic snowboarder
