With all the attention focused on the class of 2023 graduating into the next step in their life journey, The Episcopal School of Dallas Parents’ Association (ESDPA) has shown some major support to “further the academic excellence of The Episcopal School of Dallas (ESD) students.”
It was announced the ESDPA has provided a $2M gift endowing the Associate Head of School position as part of the ESD 2030 strategic plan that “focuses on three vital components: great educators in every facet of school life, ESDistinction – a curriculum of purpose, and investment in the community.”
The decision to endow the position was largely made as a display of admiration for ESDPA Associate Head of School Ruth Burke’s work at ESD.
Since joining ESD 26 yeas ago, she has “overseen admission, communications, community culture and strategic initiatives,” as well as “the building of the lower school, a $36 million endeavor, delivering the project on time and on budget.”
In announcing the news, ESD Hobson Family Head of School David Baad said, “By endowing the position of Associate Head of School, the Parents’ Association is ensuring we will have strong leadership for generations to come. This gift also affirms the important role Ruth Burke has had at ESD. The position is significant to our culture, the partnership with the Parents’ Association and the development of future leaders.”

Led by a committee made up of Maria Link, April Cook, Ginny Searcy, Lauren Swann, Ellen Carrie, Stephanie Logan and Mary Beth Weinberger, the gift makes a total of more than $15M donated by ESDPA.
In responding to the announcement, Ruth said, “I have been blessed to work alongside the ESDPA and our amazing volunteers over the years and have felt the tremendous strength and impact of their partnership. This endowment ensures the school-parent partnership will continue to flourish in the future. What an amazing gift for ESD that makes an impact today and to all of those who come after us.”
* Photo provided by The Episcopal School of Dallas
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