Christ Presbyterian Academy (CPA), a PreK–12 independent Christian school in Nashville, Tennessee, has long been known for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual development. But by 2017, its facilities were no longer keeping pace with the school’s growing enrollment and evolving programs.

Leadership recognized the need to expand—not just in bricks and mortar, but in the future of the school community. To ensure a successful campaign, they partnered with the Winkler Group to test donor readiness and shape a compelling case for support.

Our Work Together: From Proof of Concept to Culture Shift

The first campaign set out to raise $8 million for a new performing arts center and other immediate campus priorities. But through the feasibility study, we uncovered a deeper well of donor capacity and excitement. We recommended setting the goal at $15 million: a stretch, but achievable with the right strategy.

CPA exceeded its goal, raising more than $15.5 million and completing one of the most transformative projects in school history: a dramatic performing arts center, a new school entrance, and a college-like central quad.

Building on the foundation of the 2017 campaign, CPA immediately returned to the Winkler Group to explore what could be possible next. The result was a second, entirely new campaign, this time with a $25 million goal. With a growing philanthropic culture and visible progress on campus, donors responded with even greater confidence and enthusiasm.

The two campaigns created a flywheel of momentum. Longtime families increased their giving in the second campaign after seeing the tangible impact of their first gifts. Mid-level donors from the first effort rose to become major gift leaders in the second. Most importantly, the community’s trust in CPA’s vision—and in its ability to deliver—only deepened.