Memphis University School (MUS) will soon begin the first phase of major improvements to its campus, starting with a new arts and science building.
The college-preparatory school for boys in grades six-through-12 announced its construction plans as part of a “two-fold plan for capital improvements and endowment investments.” The total campaign goal is $200 million.
MUS’ current endowment sits at $60 million, with an additional $50 million pledged. Officials said that amount positions them with “one of the largest independent day-school endowments in the region.” The funding enables the school to provide financial aid, recruit faculty, and maintain tuition pricing.
“Many educational institution capital campaigns include an endowment component on the tail-end once the money is raised for buildings,” MUS board chair Will Thompson. “We, on the other hand, intentionally began our campaign with the endowment because of its paramount importance.”
MUS Headmaster Peter Sanders said the endowment gives them the opportunity for innovation and development — not just financial backing.
“It gives us freedom to take on challenges and provides a commitment not only to our families also to the Memphis community,” Sanders said.
This first phase is one of three that aims to construct a number of additions to the campus, including a tech center and library, expanded middle school, baseball field house, and more.
“An additional Park Avenue entrance and guard house will also be introduced during Phase 1,” MUS officials said. “In future phases, a new tech center and library, along with a new Lower School, will be constructed to accommodate a growing student body that includes the successful implementation of sixth grade in 2024-25.”
Sanders said the school’s current buildings do not reflect how strong and advanced its programs are.
“As we shape the future for our boys and pave the way for the organizations, cities, and regions they will shape, we are confident that the vision for this campus plan will provide full support for our faculty and students and deliver on our mission through this century,” Sanders said.
