Continuing the Marist Mission

Susan and Mike Buchanan, longtime friends of Marist School, are strong believers in Marist’s educational philosophy. Through their planned gift, they will help to sustain the school’s mission for future generations.

Susan and Mike Buchanan have been a part of the Marist School community for over three decades. Their connection officially began when their daughter Laura enrolled in 1987, followed by her sister, Alyce, a few years later. Laura and Alyce both enjoyed their time as Marist students. When Laura passed away unexpectedly in 1991, the school community provided a wonderful support system for the family. The relationships Susan and Mike formed during that time are ones they have treasured throughout their lives. Susan shares, "You never really leave Marist. It becomes a part of your family and who you are. The special relationships formed there truly continue."

The Buchanans initially learned about Marist through friends whose children attended the school. They were interested in a Catholic secondary education for their daughters, and were impressed with the distinctive environment and curriculum that Marist offered. They continue to appreciate the opportunities the school provides to students today. Mike elaborates, "We value the education, the emphasis on learning to be a good person and a good citizen, which a Marist education teaches every day."

Over the years, the Buchanans’ generosity has helped to sustain the Marist student experience they so deeply value and that their daughters benefited from. Susan and Mike support the Annual Fund and are members of the Heritage Circle, Marist’s planned giving society. They have also supported the endowment, several capital campaigns, the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program, and special initiatives in athletics. In addition, the Buchanans also fund an annual need-based scholarship by taking advantage of the IRA charitable rollover provision. Susan and Mike return to campus frequently and can often be found cheering on the Marist War Eagle football team. Their son-in-law, Steve Manown ’96, played during his time at Marist while his wife Alyce ’96 was a member of the cheerleading squad, among other activities.

Marist School has remained a top philanthropic priority for the Buchanans because of their belief in the school’s mission to form the whole person in the image of Christ, and their commitment to "The Marist Way," embracing a life of prayer, community, learning, service, and vocation. Mike credits his close relationship with the late Fr. James Hartnett, who served as teacher, principal, and president of Marist School from 1955 to 2001, as solidifying his dedication to Marist. Mike jokes, "Try to say ’no’ to someone like Fr. Hartnett." He continues, "Fr. Hartnett just had a way with people. He was a special person whose impact is still felt at Marist today."

When considering their personal philanthropy, the Buchanans’ philosophy was instilled during their childhoods and is continually inspired by Luke 12:48: "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required." They believe it is their responsibility to share their life’s blessings with others. Susan and Mike decided to include Marist in their estate plan as a way to continue this legacy of giving. As members of the Heritage Circle, the Buchanans will continue to advance the school’s mission for generations to come.