Introducing Rather Stanton, Bush’s New Chief Finance and Operations Officer

Rather brings over a decade of experience in school finance and operational leadership in schools. His work has been grounded in equity and justice, focusing on ways to provide students unique experiences and access as critical components of a balanced education. Rather will lead the school’s financial and operations offices, and will serve as the liaison to the Board’s Finance and Investment Committees. He will take an active role in moving the school forward on its Strategic Plan, that includes building a new Center Campus and Middle School, affirming our commitment to financial aid and competitive faculty/staff salaries, and developing the school’s semester program in the Methow Valley. These ambitious goals attracted Rather to The Bush School. 

Rather offered, “My family and I are so thrilled to be joining the Bush community! Every person—from students to parents to staff and faculty—whom I've met at Bush has been so warm and welcoming. The commitment to learning, equity, and community shines brightly, and everyone's love for the school has been palpable. I cannot wait to get to know you all this fall."

Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Rather is a proud alumnus of two outstanding independent schools that instilled the civility, honesty, responsibility, and compassion that have guided his personal life and professional career. Rather’s wife, Stephanie, currently works for the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago as the Director of Community Innovation and Collaboration, co-creating and evaluating initiatives that connect people to nature and conservation. They both look forward to getting to know Seattle and exploring all the outdoor experiences in the Pacific Northwest. 

Rather received his B.A. in Economics and Political Science from Lake Forest College and his J.D. from University of Illinois (Chicago) School of Law. Prior to Legal Preparatory Charter Academy, Rather was a law clerk at Ronaldson & Kuchler, clerked for Hon. Brigid McGrath, and co-founded Griffith Tutoring, a non-profit organization preparing at-risk Chicago high school students for the ACT college entrance exam through business partnerships, training, and mentoring. 

I want to extend a special thank you to the hiring committee and the community members who took the time to meet with Rather and the other finalists. We could not have made this important appointment without your thoughtful input and insights. We look forward to welcoming Rather and his wife, Stephanie, to the Bush community in July.