Wright McLeod
Class of 1977

Occupation
Attorney

Higher Education
B.A.,United States Naval Academy

M.A. in National Security Studies,
Georgetown University

J.D.,University of Georgia School of Law

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Robin Raymond

When his parents gave him the name of the world's most famous aviators, they could not possibly have known the role flying would play in his life. An EDS alum (Class of 1977) and current parent, Wright McLeod's most vivid EDS memory is flying across the blacktop on foot, racing Mrs. Sherman, the P.E. teacher. Several years later, he stopped racing on the pavement, and started racing in the skies.

Wright's flying career could easily have been the inspiration for the Tom Cruise character in the movie Top Gun. After graduating from the Naval Academy, he quickly became a young, hotshot pilot flying the same fighter jet at the same air base as Cruise's fictional character.

Today, nearly 18 years later, Wright reflects on those days, "I had a great career, a great ride," he says. "I've done everything you could want to do in the F-14." He has also done a lot of things most aviators never have. As a navy pilot he flew thirty-eight missions during the Gulf War, and that was just the beginning. After the Gulf War, Wright was accepted into a training program at the Pentagon, where he worked directly with the Joint Chiefs and General Colin Powell.

Now a Commander in the reserves, Wright may soon be close to combat again. However, instead of being in a cockpit, this time Wright will be helping command an entire battle group. He'll be responsible for planning the missions, and (regrettably, he says) he'll leave the flying to the new young, hotshot pilots.

On the homefront, Wright says that he and his wife Sheri decided to return to his hometown of Augusta specifically so their children could attend EDS. He says "I believe EDS provides my children with an education that combines the highest level of academic and physical challenges, all within a religious and moral based foundation. Combined, this level of instruction and atmosphere will best prepare my children morally, mentally, and physically for the many challenges ahead."

We know Mrs. Sherman would be proud.

Wright has his own real estate law practice in Evans, GA, and he and Sheri have three children, Collier (EDS 6th), Maggie (EDS 3rd), and Grace (EDS 3s in 2003-2004).

Wright and his F-14

Wright at EDS Sports Day in 1977
(front row, fourth from left)

 alumni news
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 overview
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 endowment fund
 clarkson endowment
 library fund
 johnston teacher fund
 perry scholarship fund
 tributes
 planned giving

 Director of Alumni Dev:
  Jane J. Houston
  706.733.1192
 jhouston@edsaugusta.com

Development Overview

Annual Giving
The Annual Giving Campaign is a tax-deductible opportunity to make a donation that directly benefits the students at Episcopal Day School. Annual Giving goes into the school's operations and makes it possible for EDS to offer its excellent program. Tuition alone cannot cover the costs of the education our school provides. A gift to Annual Giving is the most important way a parent, grandparent, alumnus, or friend can show support for EDS.

Campaign EDS
In the fall of 1999, Episcopal Day School launched an ambitious capital campaign to expand and renovate its facilities. Through the generosity of more than 600 friends, we raised $2.7 million to build a new library and conference room, computer lab, two science labs, and six new preschool classrooms. We expanded the lunchroom and added a new "Village" for the three year olds. We renovated the playground, paved the parking lots, landscaped and added decorative fencing. We hope to raise $3.1 million, the actual cost of the project, before the end of the campaign in 2005.

Endowment Fund
The Endowment Fund can be compared to a savings account. The principal or corpus is invested to provide income that can be used or restricted for a specific purpose. Each year, the EDS Association donates 10% of its earnings to support the endowment. Gifts to the endowment ensure the long-term security of the school.

The Allen and Mary Clarkson Endowment Fund
In 1990, friends and family members honored the founder of Episcopal Day School, The Reverend Allen B. Clarkson, and his wife Mary on the occasion of Father Clarkson's 50th anniversary of his ordination. Father Clarkson served as the Rector of the Church of the Good Shepherd from 1942 to 1979. The fund serves as a permanent endowment for the school.

Library Fund
Gifts to the EDS Library help the school develop its permanent collection of literature, reference books, materials, and technology. The Birthday Book Club offers parents the opportunity to honor their child's birthday by donating a book to the library.

Anne J. Johnston Teacher Education Fund
The Anne J. Johnston Teacher Education Fund was established in 1987 in honor of the former teacher and Director of EDS. Anne Johnston served as Director of the school from 1958 to 1987. The purpose of the fund is to provide continuing education for teachers.

Rob Perry Memorial Scholarship Fund
This fund was established in memory of EDS student Rob Perry (1978 -1988) and provides financial assistance to encourage enrollment of qualified students who might otherwise be unable to attend EDS.

Tribute
Gifts in memory or in honor of an individual may be made to any of the funds described above. When a tribute gift is made, notice is sent to the family members and an acknowledgment card is sent to the donor.

Planned Giving
Episcopal Day School welcomes your consideration as you conduct your financial and estate planning. Gifts to the school in the form of stock, bequests, life insurance, real estate, and various trusts may be advantageous for your tax and estate planning.