AUSTIN, Texas — St. Stephen’s Episcopal School is pleased to announce a generous $500,000 gift from alumnus J.P. Bryan, Jr. ’58 toward the renovation and expansion of the school’s historic Chapel.
The Chapel, a vital gathering place since the school’s founding by the Most Rev. John E. Hines, is at the heart of daily life at St. Stephen’s. However, its current capacity cannot accommodate the school’s enrollment of over 700 students, faculty, and staff. As part of a $5 million renovation and expansion project, the Chapel will be enlarged to seat 750, ensuring all members of the community can gather in one space to worship, reflect, and connect.
The renovation, led by Volz & Associates, specialists in historic preservation, will expand the Chapel by 3,800 square feet, including updates to the transepts, narthex, sacristy, and balcony. The project will also enhance accessibility with a new central entranceway.
Reflecting on his time as a five-year boarding student, Bryan shared how the Chapel provided him with constancy, solace, and inspiration during his formative years.
“The cross above the altar spoke louder to me than anything any adult ever said about faith,” says Bryan. recalled. His gift honors the Chapel’s enduring role as a sanctuary for young people, as well as his confidence that the Chapel’s expansion will ensure it remains a meaningful and welcoming space for the next generation of Spartans.
Bryan’s gift is part of the school’s upcoming 75th anniversary celebration and comprehensive campaign, which aims to support strategic growth, improve facilities, and increase the endowment. The Episcopal Foundation of Texas has already pledged $1 million toward the Chapel expansion, and St. Stephen’s invites additional support to realize this vision for the school’s spiritual home.
For more information about other ways to support the campaign for St. Stephen’s, or to support the Chapel expansion and renovation, please contact April Speck-Ewer, Director of Advancement, at aspeckewer@sstx.org or 512-327-1213 x 118.
About St. Stephen’s
St. Stephen’s Episcopal School is a co-ed boarding school for grades 8-12, and day school for grades 6-12. St. Stephen’s is part of the Diocese of Texas, in Austin, Texas. St. Stephen’s is a caring, diverse community, welcoming all faiths and grounded in the Christian tradition. We nurture moral growth, and value the potential and dignity of every human being. We challenge motivated students to live intelligently, creatively and humanely as contributing members of society. We develop the whole person by providing rigorous academic preparation, stimulating physical activities, and rich opportunities in the fine arts.