Woolsey House, named for longtime Headmaster Dr. Robert B. Woolsey and situated next to The Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor, has been razed to make way for the new Kirby Family Hall. 

 

Since its construction in 1963, Woolsey House has played host to a variety of functions in the life of the School. Originally the residence of the headmaster, the building also served as the board room, a dining hall, an event space, a guest house, and eventually the offices for Institutional Advancement. Five different headmasters called Woolsey House home, with Headmaster Woolsey being the first. He and his wife Jo Anne lived in the 5,500-square-foot residence for 16 of his 17 years as headmaster. Dr. Woolsey believed that the house should be a center of campus activity and was well known for hosting a variety of events including hot chocolate parties, pumpkin carvings, and dinners. In 2001, the house was officially christened “Woolsey House” in honor of its longest inhabitant. 

 

In its place, Casady School will build a new 30,000-square-foot $23 million Student Dining and Engagement Center that will enhance 9th-12th grade students’ educational, dining, and community experience. The philanthropic spirit of Gay and Ed Kirby and their family inspired them to make a $12 million gift, underwriting a significant portion of this new Dining and Engagement Center. This investment reflects a partnership highlighting Casady School's commitment to continuously improving the student experience and maintaining educational excellence while significantly impacting generations of Cyclones.