Frank Capone Jr. '85

Champions of Giving: Frank Capone Jr. '85

Meet the Donor

Frank Capone Jr. ’85 has spent years helping shape the Austin Prep campus that students, families, and alumni experience every day. As an alumnus and the owner of Capone Landscape, he has remained closely connected to the School through work that is both meaningful and lasting. His story begins with that enduring bond to the place that helped form him.

 

Austin Prep left a lasting mark on Frank as a student. He credits the School with giving him a strong educational foundation and helping shape the way he approaches his work and life. “Austin Prep gave me the foundation educationally and mathematically to do what I do every day,” he said. “It taught me how to learn and adapt and to get work done.” Just as important, he says Austin Prep helped him grow in maturity and accountability. “There were expectations. There was no hiding. It really made me accountable,” Frank said. “I became an adult when I was here.”

That experience stayed with him long after graduation. Today, Frank returns to Austin Prep with a deep sense of pride, knowing that the same campus that shaped him is now a place where he can help shape the experience of others.

The Inspiration to Give

Frank’s commitment to Austin Prep grows out of belief in the School and gratitude for what it gave him. He believes in its mission, in its standards, and in the education students receive. That belief is what gives his support such meaning.

“Giving back to Austin Prep has been important to me,” Frank said. “I really believe in what they’re doing and the education.” He speaks about Austin Prep with pride and affection, and that feeling comes through in the way he describes his connection to the School. “It means a lot to be here,” he said, “and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

 

Frank has also had a front-row seat to Austin Prep’s physical transformation. His company returned to campus in 2008, and he has watched the grounds evolve steadily over time. “Little by little, we’ve transformed the campus,” he said. “It’s been amazing to watch.” He has seen how those improvements have elevated the experience of being on campus and strengthened the way the School is perceived. “I think the work that we’ve done here has really changed people’s perception of this school,” Frank said. “The dining hall is beautiful, the sports fields are beautiful, and the campus is just amazing.”

Supporting Austin Prep

Frank’s support of Austin Prep can be seen across campus. Through his company’s work, his philanthropy, and his ongoing care for the grounds, he has helped shape the physical environment in ways that are visible every day. His name is permanently connected to the School through the Protected Wetlands Conservation Area, a gift from Frank Capone Jr. and Capone Landscape.

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He describes the work as steady, thoughtful, and rooted in care. Frank said there are always smaller projects underway, particularly in August, when his team adds plants and irrigation. He sees those details as an important part of the overall campus experience, from laying sod and doing hydroseed to, as he put it, “dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s.”

That same care extends to his team. Frank takes pride in the work, and he sees that same pride in the crews who come to Austin Prep. “My guys even take pride,” he said. “The crews that come here, they really pay attention to detail.” He also makes a point of staying personally involved. “I come on campus as much as I can and really just look around, make sure everything’s in shape,” he said.

His support also helps bring some of Austin Prep’s most cherished traditions to life. Frank spoke warmly about the Christmas season on campus and the joy his team takes in helping with the School’s tree. “Christmas is awesome at Prep,” he said. “We enjoy being involved with putting the Christmas tree up, finding the Christmas tree, decorating the Christmas tree.” For Frank, those moments help create the atmosphere and memories that make Austin Prep feel special.

Why Giving Matters

Frank’s philosophy on giving is direct and heartfelt. “I believe in giving to things you believe in, whether it’s personally or business-wise,” he said. “I believe in this cause.”

That belief is at the heart of his generosity. Frank wants Austin Prep to continue growing, thriving, and serving students well into the future. “I’d like to see it grow,” he said, “and I’d like to stay here and be a part of it.” His generosity reflects loyalty, gratitude, and a strong sense of purpose.

Austin Prep helped shape Frank as a young man. Years later, he returned with the ability to shape the campus itself and strengthen the experience of those who now call it home. Through his gift, his work, and his ongoing care for the School, Frank Capone Jr. has invested in a place that means a great deal to him. Frank’s story is one of pride, stewardship, and belief in Austin Prep’s future.

Become a Champion of Giving

The article above is part of our Champions of Giving series, which highlights the individuals and families whose generosity transforms student lives and strengthens the Austin Prep experience. You too can be a Champion of Giving by supporting our students through annual giving, memorial scholarships, or campaign contributions. Your gift helps students learn boldly, lead with purpose, and serve with compassion — creating a lasting impact for generations to come.