The Circle of Stars is DEF’s core community of donors - individuals, families, and businesses - whose generosity lights the way for Decatur’s students.

From the stellar beginnings of a Nebula to the steady brilliance of a North Star, every level of giving represents a deep commitment to helping our children overcome obstacles and reach their fullest potential.

Join our constellation of supporters.

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All Circle of Stars donors, regardless of giving level, are eligible to receive some perks as a thank you. These benefits follow the school year.

All Circle of Stars donors regardless of giving level, are eligible to receive:

  • Recognition on DEF’s website, in our Decatur Focus annual report, and at DEF events as a Circle of Stars donor.

  • Invitation to a Star Social, a private donor event.

  • DEF Merch.

Many Thanks to our 2026-2027 Stars

  • Gretchen D'Huyvetter Cobb and James Cobb

  • Leah & Sam Jenness

  • Lynn Paxton

  • Anonymous Donors

  • Jenna Williams Black

  • Godfrey-Kittle Family

  • Heemann/ Byrd Family

  • Martha & Leighton Moore

  • Kristine & William Rudolph

  • Steve & Nicki Salcedo

  • Shannon & Anthony Scalese

  • Jill Wasserman & Stephen Devereaux

  • David & Kerianne Acra

  • Dan & Kim Baskerville

  • Sarah & Gareth Benson

  • Susan & Randolph Bundschu

  • Laura Bollman & Preston Cockney

  • Wendy & Andy Childers

  • Monique Crubezy

  • Diana Ellsworth

  • India & Will Epps

  • Ana Fomin

  • Laura Greaves

  • Anne and Gordon Haist

  • Pamela and Erik Harris

  • Jeffrey Hawthorne

  • Ashley & James Howle

  • Hope Baker

  • Laurie & David Beck

  • Haqiqa & Bill Bolling

  • The Master Family

  • Naomi & Stan Orkin

  • Guy & Charlotte Pfeiffer

  • Amber & Garrett Womble

  • Bobbi Kay and Chris Sidor

  • Molly and Scott Marrah

  • Meridith Mason-Ward and Joe Ward

  • C. Andrew Niesen & Rachel LaCour Niesen

  • Ben & Merry Pope

  • Kelly & Jason Richardson

  • Saliers Chipman Family

  • Nia Schooler & Walter Broner

  • Weonhee & Ryan Shin

  • Matt & Julie Smith

  • Christa & Tim Sobon

  • Deanna & Michael Sutandi

  • Mary Lynn & Raul Trujillo

  • Cathy & Steve Vogel