Dwight-sparks

Dr. Dwight Carlblom (left) and Nicholas Sparks

WHAT IS THE DR. DWIGHT CARLBLOM ENDOWMENT FUND?

After nearly a decade serving as Head of School at The Epiphany School of Global Studies, Dr. Dwight Carlblom retired on June 30, 2023. Dr. Carlblom was selected for the position by the Board of Trustees in 2014.  Mr. Nicholas Sparks, Epiphany founder and former board chair, announced at the 2023 Epiphany Gala & Auction:  A Southern Soiree on May 13, 2023, the creation of an endowment in Dr. Carlblom's honor. Dr. Carlblom will fondly be remembered as a great leader of Epiphany.  His greatest accomplishments include:

  • By his second year, he ushered the school into a period of financial independence, not relying on a single benefactor.

  • Developed the Arts and Athletics programs to the point of providing excellent opportunities for our students

  • Helped develop a program and reputation that allowed students to gain admission to five different Ivy colleges/universities as well as West Point and Annapolis

  • Developed our Learning Services program to the point of 1.5 FTE’s serving over 50 students

  • Led the school through two SAIS accreditation visits resulting in excellent reviews and recommendations aligned with our already determined 5-year strategic plans

  • Was asked to join the New Bern Chamber of Commerce as a Board member representing Epiphany

  • Spread the impact of an Epiphany education to Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, Jacksonville, and Emerald Isle

To start the Dr. Dwight Endowment Fund, Mr. Sparks matched the proceeds raised from the 2023 Gala & Auction:  A Southern Soiree, totaling more than $136,000.

The Dr. Dwight Carlblom Endowment Fund will build a legacy for The Epiphany School of Global Studies. Established as a scholarship fund for students in need, the endowment will support children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend Epiphany.  This long-term investment ensures the school reaches more students and creates economic diversity in our student body.

WHO GIVES TO THE DR. DWIGHT CARLBLOM FUND?

Like The Epiphany Fund, anyone can contribute to the endowment fund, including those in our community, such as parents, alumni, faculty, trustees, grandparents, and local organizations and businesses.

HOW IS THIS FUND  DIFFERENT THAN DONATING TO THE EPIPHANY FUND?

When donating to The Epiphany Fund, the gift goes directly into the school to address the essential academic and co-curricular programs, faculty development initiatives, and daily upkeep of our campuses.  However, your contribution to the Dr. Dwight Carlblom Endowment becomes a long-term investment for the school.  Your gift will increase the principle being invested.  Scholarships are created for one or more students using the interest of the principle.  The principle is rarely used.  Therefore, as the principle of the endowment increases, Epiphany is able to offer more scholarship opportunities for students to attend Epiphany.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE?

Every gift, no matter how small or big, makes an impact on the lives of the students receiving a scholarship.  A gift of any amount is accepted and appreciated!

HOW ARE GIFTS RECOGNIZED?

Epiphany values your support! Donors will be recognized alphabetically in our Annual Report. Specific gift amounts are never listed. You also have the option to remain anonymous. Additionally, we will acknowledge your gift with a thank you letter and receipt for tax purposes. Thank you from the entire Epiphany community for helping to give the gift of education to those who might otherwise be able to attend Epiphany!