4 minute read
Katy Rhodes Magruder ’98
Katy Rhodes Magruder ’98 is a proud FWCD alumna who dedicates herself to ensuring that the School continues to thrive. An FWCD Original, Magruder’s FWCD connection runs deep: She is President-Elect of the Alumni Council and committed to enhancing the School’s facilities as a Forward Together Comprehensive Campaign donor and committee member.
“I am so thankful my parents gave me the opportunity to attend the School. It is a big commitment financially, especially seeing it from the parent perspective," she shared in reference to her stepdaughter, Megan ’23, who attended the Upper School for three years.
The commitment, however, paid off in invaluable ways for them both. Megan’s transformative experience at FWCD led her to excel academically, develop strong study and writing skills, and ultimately gain admission to The University of Texas at Austin. Magruder attributes this success to the work ethic, accountability and life skills instilled during her stepdaughter’s time at FWCD.
Magruder has enjoyed a successful career that started in the Visitors Office of The White House for President George W. Bush. That role ultimately led her to become the Special Assistant to the President of the Dallas Center for Performing Arts Foundation, Director of Executive Services on the North Texas Super Bowl XLV Host Committee, serve in a Chief of Staff capacity for the largest single-family office in New York City, Director of Donor Relations and Events for Jeb Bush’s presidential campaign, Director of Client Relations for Muzinich and Co., and the Director of Development for Texas 2036.
Magruder eventually returned to The Fort and now serves as the Fort Worth Market Leader for PNC Private Bank clients, where she oversees a team of professionals that ensures that all PNC Private Bank clients benefit from a full complement of investment, trust, financial planning and private banking services to help them achieve their financial goals. Her professional journey reflects the principles she absorbed at FWCD, including the fundamental building blocks of dedication to excellence and teamwork, and the people who influenced her — students, teachers, and coaches — each leaving a profound mark on her path to success.
Some of those impactful people who shaped her journey were Butch Traeder H’16, who dedicated summers to instilling confidence, work ethic, and purpose as Volleyball Coach; Bill Arnold ’86, whose engaging teaching style made history courses enjoyable and relevant; and Lelia Koeppe, who influenced Katy’s artistic passions. “I learned more at Country Day in the way of leadership, academics, work ethic and community than I learned anywhere else, and it set a pathway for the rest of my life,” she said.
Magruder’s deep appreciation for her Falcon experience fuels her commitment to giving back to her alma mater. “I am beyond thankful for what Country Dave gave to me,” she said. “I want to do anything to help Country Day thrive.”
As a member of the Forward Together Comprehensive Campaign, Katy has dedicated her time to sharing the campaign’s story and helping to fulfill the funding for the new Lower School building. “This campaign is about ensuring that future generations can experience the same transformative education that Megan and I received,” she said. “And it all starts in the Lower School.”
Katy’s story is a testament to FWCD’s lasting impact. As an alum and active participant in the School's initiatives, she embodies the spirit of giving back, ensuring that FWCD remains a beacon of excellence for future generations. Her commitment shows a dedication to perpetuating the legacy of excellence she experienced at FWCD, ensuring it endures for generations.
