19th Avenue / Campaign Donor Profile

Building a Legacy: A Board Member’s Vision for CAIS

The Wang Family

In the heart of CAIS, a story unfolds—one that intertwines the passion for education, community spirit, and a desire to leave a lasting legacy. Meet John Wang, father of Ella and Tyler, a CAIS 6th grader, and a dedicated member of the Board of Trustees whose commitment to CAIS extends far beyond meetings and discussions. For John, supporting the school’s capital campaign is not just a duty but a heartfelt investment in the future of the school community.

John was drawn to the capital campaign by a strong sense of leadership and a desire to set an example for the community. “As a board member, I felt a responsibility to contribute to the campaign and be a leader in shaping the future of our school,” John shared. “I also thought about the impact on my own family—knowing that my son will have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of an enhanced campus.”

The vision for the new campus is expansive, offering limitless possibilities for the school’s future success. John emphasized the importance of full control of the campus, highlighting the freedom to explore new programs and activities without the constraints of leases and space negotiations. “Sports will be a big part of what the new campus allows us to do,” John explained. “Kids being able to play for the CAIS Firedragons creates school spirit and pride. My son has already signed up for the cross-country and basketball teams!”

The naming opportunities within the campaign resonated deeply with John. After losing his father last year, he looks forward to using this as a way to honor him while also supporting CAIS. “It’s not just about a building; it’s about creating a lasting tribute to those we hold dear,” he shared.

To those considering supporting the capital campaign, John offers a message of hope and community involvement. “For younger families, this is an investment in the long-term enjoyment of the new school. It directly benefits the new campus and supports exciting new programs like art, theater, and sports.”

“For younger families, this is an investment in the long-term enjoyment of the new school. It directly benefits the new campus and supports exciting new programs like art, theater, and sports.”

John Wang, Board Vice Chair (Second)

The collective support of the community is pivotal in achieving CAIS’s ambitious goals. John sees this as an opportunity for every member to contribute at a level that is meaningful to them. “It’s a chance for all community members to be a part of something bigger than themselves,” John emphasized.

Being a part of the capital campaign has transformed John’s perspective on philanthropy and community involvement. Their family’s significant contribution, the largest they’ve ever made, has left a lasting impact. “It felt really good to make this gift to CAIS, and I know now that in the future, I will approach giving with less fear and more thoughtfulness and intentionality,” John reflected.

As the capital campaign unfolds, John’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration, inviting the entire CAIS community to join hands in building a legacy that will shape the future of Chinese immersion education for generations to come.

If you are interested in making a gift to the campaign to build our forever home or would like to learn more, please contact Berkley Summerlin, Director of Advancement, at b_summerlin@cais.org.