Potomac School Gets $12M Gift For Athletics Center

MCLEAN, VA—The Potomac School's upcoming Center for Athletics and Community has garnered one of the largest gifts in school history. The Spangler family made the $12 million donation.

Dr. Abigail Spangler is a a member of the school's Board of Trustees. Her father, C.D. Spangler, Jr., a businessman, former president of the University of North Carolina, former president of Harvard’s Board of Overseers and chair of a major campaign for Harvard Business School, died in July. C.D. Spangler, Jr. was key in deciding to give the donation to the school.

"The Spangler family’s gift has given us tremendous momentum, inspiring others to join in supporting this project, which will benefit Potomac students for years to come," said Head of School John Kowalik in a statement. "I will also note that Abby Spangler’s leadership extends far beyond financial generosity. She has been actively involved with our school for many years, and she is always the first to step up when something needs to be done."

In all, 78 donors have contributed more than $31 million for the new athletic center. They were recognized at a recent dinner. Fundraising will continue to meet the $37 million cost for the center.

Construction of the new 76,500-square-foot center began in July. It will include a gymnasium with a competition basketball court and three practice courts, an indoor jogging track, seven squash courts; a weight room, a cardio room, multipurpose activity room and flexible gathering spaces. The facility aims to support the school's 26-sport athletic program and provide space for schoolwide gatherings.

The school aims to have the center open in late fall 2019.

Image: Head of School John Kowalik, Trustee Dr. Abigail Spangler, and Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Marjorie Brennan with a rendering of the center, via Potomac School