Hodgson Hall
IS THE STORY OF RABUN GAP-NACOOCHEE SCHOOL.
Hodgson Hall has been the beating heart of academic life at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School for almost a century. Fortified by brick, slate, and steel, this iconic building was established in 1927 as a beacon of education to the local region and beyond.
Today, we’re working to restore and renovate this iconic landmark to best serve students and faculty for years to come. The Legacy for the Future campaign brings together our entire Rabun Gap community for a common purpose to protect and enhance Hodgson Hall, ensuring dynamic learning spaces on campus for future generations. Together, we will preserve the historic character of this iconic building and update the interior to best meet the needs of our students and faculty. We’re
excited about adding enhanced classroom spaces, customized teacher workspaces, a grand outdoor terrace, a student commons, and various safety and technology upgrades.
Throughout the following pages, read more about Hodgson Hall’s rich history and connection to our alumni, discover the future of the building through artist renderings, learn how our applied learning curriculum is serving students, and explore how you can leave your mark on the future of Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School with a gift to Hodgson Hall. There are a wide range of giving opportunities, including custom bricks, slate roof tile keepsakes, and named building spaces that connect the supporter to the history and future of Hodgson Hall.
CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE
Niles Bolton co-chair
George Wirth co-chair
Frederick Allen trustee
Steve Gilliam ’66 trustee
Jon Barnwell ’92 trustee
John Underwood P‘19 P’22 trustee & building chair
Kate Maine ’85 trustee
Jeff Miles head of school
Paige Spivey associate head of school
THE STORY OF
Scan to learn more and see our campaign video.
Hodgson Hall— where students have been mentored by master teachers and where they make lifelong friendships—is approaching 95 years of dedicated service to generations of Rabun Gap students. Almost every class has had their graduation photo taken on the front steps.
Alumni can purchase a commemorative brick for the new terrace, receive a keepsake made from Hodgson’s original slate roof, or pool gifts together with their peers to honor their class or a favorite teacher. RGNS was established to provide high-quality education, regardless of a family’s financial means. The Legacy for the Future campaign is an opportunity to ensure present and future students get the Rabun Gap experience alumni cherish.
TOP LEFT: The laying of the Hodgson Hall cornerstone in 1927. BOTTOM LEFT: Hodgson Hall’s iconic gold cupola is constructed. BOTTOM MIDDLE: Students type on typewriters in a classroom in Hodgson Hall in 1949. BOTTOM RIGHT: Mr. Llewlyn’s Bible class in the early 1960s. RIGHT: Students congregate at the front entrance of Hodgson Hall.
“
As alumni, Hodgson Hall is close to our hearts. Seeing it at the top of the hill today feels like home...We are excited to support the restoration of Hodgson Hall so that the next century of Rabun Gap’s students can share the same experience.”- Connie (Baker) ’02 and Seth Jones ’02 Class of 2022 Class of 1987 Class of 1939 Class of 1960
to give and learn
Scan
more.
THE FUTURE HODGSON HALL of
The renovation and restoration of Hodgson Hall will bring the interior into the 21st century while preserving the building’s iconic architecture. The new layout for Hodgson Hall focuses on the addition of vital classrooms and bright public areas for collaborative work.
Modern classrooms & meeting spaces
Scan to see more renderings.
A newly established student commons area will create a landing spot during the academic day for students to do group work, independent study, and connect with faculty members.
Modern classrooms & work spaces designed to support applied learning
• Addition of vital classroom space to fit the needs of growing enrollment.
Student gathering space
• Modular classroom furniture to support group work and applied learning curriculum.
• Cutting-edge educational technology in every classroom.
• Inspiring views of the mountain landscape.
• Huddle rooms for small-group work and meetings.
• Dedicated teacher workspaces for faculty planning and collaboration.
Rabun Gap’s applied learning curriculum engages creativity, collaboration, character, cultural competency, and critical thinking. We value skills-driven content and hands-on experiences that transform students from learners to leaders.”
“
- Dr. Erika Farr, Head of Upper School
Sustainability + Safety
A DOAS fresh air exchange system coupled with a centralized HVAC system will enable preconditioned air to enter the building allowing for increased comfort, reduction in energy consumption, and cost savings.
Slate tiles and replaced doors will be repurposed for future use rather than disposed of in a landfill.
LED lighting continues to be replaced throughout the building to reduce energy consumption and the installation of occupancy sensors will offer further benefits.
Decisions regarding materials, finishes, and fixtures will be made with consideration for high standards in energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Special attention will be given to increase accessibility with widened entries, ramps, updated restrooms on each level, and other accessibility improvements.
A sprinkler system will be added to ensure fire safety. Electrical and wifi upgrades will enable enhanced safety features including access-controlled doors, cameras, and outdoor lighting.
A grand outdoor terrace facing Highway 441
• Generous three-tiered outdoor space with furniture for classes, performances, and student collaboration.
• Lush landscaping and sidewalks to showcase and make accessible the historical elements of the building.
• Brick dedications for donors to honor faculty, students, and alumni.
WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR Legacy for the Future
There are many opportunities available to support the renovation and restoration of Hodgson Hall. Check out all the ways you can make an impact on student learning at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School and leave your legacy.
Classrooms & Named Spaces*
GIFTS OF $25,000 AND UP
There are opportunities to name a variety of spaces in the building, leaving a lasting legacy on Hodgson Hall. Named spaces will be recognized in the buidling with a bronze. Please contact Paige Spivey at 706-746-7731 or pspivey@rabungap.org to explore naming options available in Hodgson Hall.
Original Slate Keepsakes*
GIFTS OF $1,500, $5,000, AND $10,000
Original slate tiles from the roof of Hodgson Hall will be repurposed for you to always have a piece of the iconic Hodgson Hall! Supporters who make gifts of $10,000 will receive a large customized slate. An engraved slate coaster set ($5,000) and keepsake ($1,500) are also available.
Outdoor Terrace Bricks
GIFTS OF $250 AND UP
Customize a brick that will build our new outdoor terrace on the front of Hodgson Hall! This is a great way to commemorate students or alumni, recognize a beloved faculty member, or share a special message. Each gift of $250 qualifies for a customized brick.
* Gifts of $1,500 and above will receive a complimentary custom brick for the Outdoor Terrace.
HOW TO GIVE
Give online at www.rabungap.org/legacy.
Mail in your gift using the enclosed postage-paid envelope.
To make a gift via stock transfer, IRA Charitable Rollover, or other method, please contact Paige Spivey at 706-746-7731 or pspivey@rabungap.org.
“For nearly a century, lives were changed in Hodgson Hall. In this same building, tomorrow’s leaders are being educated and inspired for lives of purpose and service for a world that truly needs them. Let’s ensure that Hodgson Hall remains a Legacy for
the Future.
- Rev. Dr. George Wirth, Chair of the Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School Board of Trustees”
339 Nacoochee Drive Rabun Gap, GA 30568
