Leadership Giving for Lasting Impact
At Vertus Charter High School, we are Developing Men of Character - young men who demonstrate courage, leadership, and responsibility in school and in life. While Vertus is a public charter school, we receive nearly $6,000 less per student each year than district schools. Despite receiving nearly less funding per student each year than district schools, Vertus delivers personalized, year-round education that changes lives. Philanthropic support bridges this gap, ensuring our students have access to the same high-quality education, mentorship, and opportunities as their suburban peers.
The Shield Society recognizes and celebrates the generosity of donors who invest $5,000 or more annually in this mission. These leadership-level gifts sustain Vertus’ distinctive model of year-round personalized academics, full-time mentoring, and hands-on career preparation. With smaller class sizes and a full staff of dedicated Preceptors, Vertus provides each student the structure, guidance, and opportunity to succeed in high school and beyond.
Why “The Shield Society”?
The Shield Society is a structured leadership giving initiative recognizing donors contributing $5,000 or more annually. The campaign incorporates a giving pathway that invites all supporters to deepen their investment in Vertus, with an emphasis on personalized stewardship, major gifts, and legacy giving.
The Shield Society is Vertus Charter High School’s circle of committed donors who ensure that young men of Rochester have the strong relationships, personal year-round academics, character education, and career preparation they need to succeed in high school and beyond.
By joining, you stand with our students, protecting their future and fueling opportunity.
Membership Benefits
As a Shield Society member, you’ll enjoy:
- Recognition in our Annual Report, at the Warrior Gala, and on our Donor Wall
- Invitations to exclusive Shield Society gatherings and student showcases
- Personalized updates on your impact from Vertus leadership and students
The opportunity to help shape the future of Vertus through transformational giving
Thank You to Our Members
Brother's Keeper – $25,000 – $49,999
CDC of Upstate NY
Warriors – $50,000+
The Max and Marian Farash Charitable Foundation
Wegmans Foundation
Leaders of Character – $10,000 – $24,999
Fred & Floy Willmott Foundation
Gallina Family Foundation
Glover-Crask Charitable Endowment
Joe and Dale Klein
Michael Mandina and Patti Keyes
On The Mark Utility Locating Services, Inc.
Robert S. and Gabrielle Peckham
Sands Foundation
The Riedman Foundation
Wegmans
Mentors – $5,000 – $9,999
Bryan and Beth Hickman
Daniel R. and Paula Wegman
DeJoy & Co.
Evan & Amanda Gallina
Jack O'Connell, Jr. and Elizabeth DelValle
Joe Fitzpatrick
Optimax
Rick Plympton
Russell P. LeFrois Builder, Inc.
Sydor Optics, Inc.
The Dick's Sporting Goods Foundation
The M&T Charitable Foundation
Victoria Van Voorhis
Seeds of Impact
A Shield Society and Friends of Vertus Event
Growing the Future of Vertus Men
June 3, 2026; 5:00-7:00pm, Prive @ The Metropolitan
As a valued member of our community, we invite you to join us for cocktails and conversation with the KeyBank team as we explore how planned giving and our endowment are helping plant the seeds for Vertus’ future.
For questions, please reach out to Stephanie Campanelli at 585-329-2027 or email scampanelli@vertusschool.org
Join Us
By becoming part of the Shield Society, you help close the funding gap and provide life-changing opportunities for young men in Rochester — ensuring they have the tools, mentors, and education to reach their full potential.
Join today and make a lasting impact.
