Moved to Share Time, Talent, and Treasure
Kia and Chris ’96 Randall P’28,’30 support the Shady Side community through multiple approaches to giving.
Chris Randall ’96 P’28,’30 admits that his engagement with the Shady Side Academy community lapsed in the decades that followed his graduation. But he experienced a meaningful reengagement when he and his wife Kia decided to enroll their children, Sophia, Class of 2028, and Chase, Class of 2030, at Shady Side last year. “The Shady Side community was immediately very open and welcoming to all of us,” Chris says. “We knew we wanted to do anything we could to help return the support.”
As Shady Side parents, Chris and Kia champion financial giving, and have donated to the Rockwell Middle School and the Blue & Gold Fund. “Any gift, regardless of its size, is important,” Kia says. “When we donate, it demonstrates to our children that we’re not only committed to their education, but we’re committed to the community that supports them on their educational journey.”
The Randalls’ philanthropy extends into the vital roles they play in the blossoming Shady Side Academy community. Chris joined the Board of Trustees in 2025, while Kia is the Senior School Vice Chair for the Unified Parents’ Association.
“As we move into the future, Shady Side needs to adapt and evolve to face new challenges, and I’m looking forward to helping it do that,” Chris shares. In her role, Kia hopes to mirror the reception her family received for other new families.
I want to be an instrument for new parents to connect, and help spread the word that they’ve chosen a phenomenal place for their kids to grow.
Kia Randall P’28,’30
Chris and Kia credit Shady Side’s vibrant community with providing a space for connection and growth. They share that their daughter, Sophia, an accomplished equestrian, was encouraged to try new sports in her first year at Shady Side. She now has golf, squash, and lacrosse experience that’s boosted her confidence and her willingness to step outside of her comfort zone.
Having attended Shady Side’s Middle School himself, Chris is thrilled to see Chase take advantage of the opportunities the Middle School provides. “When we visited before enrolling, I was so glad to see that the Middle School retained so many of the positive aspects I recall while adding many more,” he says. “The new Rockwell Middle School will provide space for even more growth.”
Chris hopes that other alumni will take the time to re-engage with Shady Side and support its mission for future students. “The Shady Side community is thriving. If you haven’t been connected in a while, come back and take a look,” Chris says. “When you talk to people in this community and see what they are trying to accomplish, you’ll want to help contribute to its continued evolution.”