Who is T.W. Anderson?
Born of Swedish immigrants, T.W. Anderson attended North Park Academy in Chicago. He continued on at North Park Junior College before entering the University of Chicago to complete his degree. In 1913, at the age of twenty-four, Anderson was called to be the first president of a new school scheduled to begin classes that fall – Minnehaha Academy – where he served until 1933.

Due to his own dedication and sincere interest, Anderson developed a profound spirit of caring within the school. Beyond its doors, wherever he went, Anderson was able to generate genuine concern and enthusiasm for the Academy. Anderson enlisted those who had already given sacrificially to build the school, to give even more. They gave to the school’s continuing work and then, to future capital improvements. This resulted in the construction of the school’s much-needed addition in 1922. At Minnehaha Academy, it became Anderson’s responsibility to recruit students, hire teachers, organize curriculum and raise money. He led all chapel services and taught Bible history. Over a period of ten years, Anderson was able to increase enrollment from a mere handful to a student body of 400.

His thoughts about the Academy have meaning for us today: "I could think of no better description of the entire work of the school than one word - excellence. That applies not least to the deep Christian spirit that permeates the school."

It is this kind of devotion to the mission of Minnehaha that exemplifies the members of the T.W. Anderson Society.

Consider membership in the T.W. Anderson Society

Minnehaha Academy is where students can best develop their character, expand their minds, and place Christ at the center of their lives. A gift to Minnehaha Academy’s endowment helps students benefit from a Minnehaha Academy education.

Membership in the T.W. Anderson Society is offered to those individuals or couples who make a planned gift to Minnehaha Academy. Persons become members through one or more of the following gift options based on their goals:

• Provide for a charitable bequest in your will
• Designate Minnehaha Academy as a beneficiary of a trust, insurance policy, property, IRA, money market account or other qualified provision
• Establish a charitable gift annuity arrangement

Recognition of Society Members
As a member of the T.W. Anderson Society, you will:

• Be recognized in the Academy’s annual donor publication, unless otherwise requested
• Be an honored guest at Founders’ Day, the President’s Dinner and other key school events throughout the year, enabling you to see your gift working in the lives of our students.

If you have already made a provision for Minnehaha Academy as part of your will and would like to be part of the T. W. Anderson Society, fill out this form. If you have question about the T.W. Anderson Society, please contact
Gayle Gilreath
Phone: 612-728-7796
gilreath-gayle@MinnehahaAcademy.net