A new House system in the Middle School offers our youngest students a place to find belonging. p. 20
SANTA FE PREP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Jenny Cohen Kaufman ’94, Chair
Sara April, Vice Chair
David Kocon, Treasurer
Randy Dry, Secretary
Guillermo Bleichmar
Bob Borden
Liz Bremner
Alice Dunn
Dominic Garcia
Estevan Gonzales
Miquela Korte
Christine Lehman, Emerita
Erik Litzenberg ’90
Thao Marquez
Suzanne Moss, Emerita
Fred Nathan
Joohee Rand
Dennis Romero
Carol Romero-Wirth, Emerita
Leslie Anne Ross
Jenna Scanlan
Warren Thompson ’72, Emeritus
SANTA FE PREP ALUMNI BOARD
Elege Simons Harwood ’94, President
Alicia Bertram ’09
Amalia Bertram ’14
Julia Bertram ’11
Reed Bienvenu ’01
Chris Chakeres ’94
Jenny Cohen Kaufman ’94
Alexandra Fleming ’01
Lucy Gent Foma ’05
Matthew Harland ’79
L. Noel Harvey ’87
Adelma Hnasko ’92
Kate Kennedy ’05
Todd Kurth ’81
Erik Litzenberg ’90
Michael Meade ’06
Seth Montgomery ’12
Danny Quinn ’12
Willy Richardson ’92
Laurel Seth ’70
Cass Thompson ’08
Peter White ’82
SANTA FE PREP ADMINISTRATION
Aaron Schubach, Head of School
Ashley Satterthwaite, Associate Head of School and Head of Upper School
Heather Robinson, Head of Middle School
Kaitlyn Atencio, Director of Learning Services
Hayley Burke, Co-Director of College Counseling
Kendel Fesenmyer, Director of Studies
Anders Fristedt, Director of Experiential Education
Dieu Ho, Executive Director of Breakthrough Santa Fe
Todd Kurth ’81, Director of Athletics
Mary Little, Director of Admissions & Marketing
Catherine McKenzie, Director of Library Services
Michael McNeill, Director of Advancement
Sam Ritter, Director of Davis New Mexico Scholarship
Bruce Sachs, CFO
Carolyn Starks, Co-Director of College Counseling
Nick Stofocik, Director of Facilities
John Utsey, Director of Technology
LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
05 PURPOSE AND BELONGING
At Prep, our staff and faculty use the powers of community and Jedi mind tricks to prepare our students to lead lives of uncommon purpose.
AROUND THE QUADS
06 NEWS AND NOTES FROM CAMPUS
Athletic and academic updates; meet Prep’s newest alumna-turned-educator.
SALUTING THE CLASS OF 2024
13 THE CLASS OF 2024 SETS OUT TO CHANGE THE WORLD
On May 31, Prep's 57th Commencement ceremony was held in the Upper School Quad, celebrating the achievements of 46 graduating seniors.
FACULTY AND STAFF HIGHLIGHTS
09 EDUCATOR ACCOLADES
In 2024, Prep faculty members kept busy with passion projects, academic honors, a new P(r)EP Talk series, and trips around the world.
16 TEACHING LEADERSHIP, SUPPORTING SERVICE LEARNING
Prep’s new Director of Experiential Education reflects on the significance of peer leadership and looks forward to the years ahead.
18 THANK YOU, CHEF!
Lunch Program Chef Eduardo Beltran is passionate about feeding our community.
COVER STORY
20 GROWING ROOTS
A new House system in the Middle School offers our youngest students a place to find belonging—and instills values of hard work, team spirit, and healthy competition in the process.
2023-2024 ANNUAL REPORT
38 PREP’S HONOR ROLL OF DONORS
We give thanks to the alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty and staff, and other generous supporters of Santa Fe Prep.
ALUMNI UPDATES
58 CLASS NEWS
Stay connected with your alma mater and with each other.
62 “SWITCH”
Reflections of a retired teacher-coach on the importance of learning from our students and athletes.
BACK COVER
UPCOMING ALUMNI EVENTS
Join us for the 2024 Alumni Holiday Party and Alumni Weekend 2025!
PARENTS OF ALUMNI:
If your child is not receiving this magazine at their permanent address, please notify us so that it may be sent directly to them! Updated delivery addresses, or requests to cancel delivery of Prep magazine, may be sent to alumni@sfprep.org
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts with Prep! Letters to the editor may be sent to news@sfprep.org or to the school’s mailing address: 1101 Camino de la Cruz Blanca, Santa Fe, NM 87505.
ENGAGE WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
We welcome feedback through our school social channels.
@SantaFePrepSchool
@SantaFePrep
Magazine Photos by SFP Yearbook Staff, Anna Hastings, Nicole Moulton, Anne Staveley, and Luis Sánchez Saturno/The New Mexican.
Letter From the Head of School
Purpose and Belonging
IWAS FIVE YEARS OLD WHEN the first Star Wars movie came out, and with the Swiss-German last name Schubach, you can imagine that early elementary school was fraught with many unwanted references and comparisons to the wookiee Chewbacca. I had no choice but to embrace it. Truth be told, I was completely hooked when Obi-Wan Kenobi used his Jedi mind tricks to let the Stormtroopers know that these weren't the Droids they were looking for. I don't remember it, but my parents told me I shouted, “But they are!” in the movie theater. It turns out that Obi-Wan's tactics are timeless and we use them daily with the talented young people at Santa Fe Prep.
Let me explain. Purpose and belonging are the themes of this magazine and, unofficially, of our first six decades of work at Prep. Starting with purpose, we see the impact and long-term outcomes that happen when students match their talents to unmet needs in our community. When our students connect with their senses of purpose, they find a sustainable energy source that powers their school work, the process of applying to colleges and universities, and, eventually, their post-secondary education and their work and lives far beyond Santa Fe Prep. Because purpose sometimes feels like pressure to students, we know, like Obi-Wan, we need to be subtle with our guidance and direction. In
that spirit, we lean heavily into what lies behind their interests and goals, and we know that if we, and they, get that right, the details will take care of themselves. Therefore, we ask what matters to them, whom they admire, and why. Most importantly, we try to model our personal senses of purpose every day—showing why we choose this demanding profession and fine school, and by bringing energy and authenticity to our daily interactions with our students and with one another.
Cultivating belonging works in much the same way. We invite—okay, actually, we require—our students to join classes, teams, and drama casts with ambitious goals. We separate them from their phones, take them to inspirational spaces and places, break bread, celebrate victories, mourn defeats, and lean into the many opportunities in front of us. In doing so, we forge common experiences and uncommon friendships that last a lifetime. In the pages of this magazine, you'll find many examples of their accomplishments and our ongoing work. Thank you for reading.
AARON SCHUBACH HEAD OF SCHOOL
Around THE QUADS
First-time State Champions
A huge congratulations to our girls cross country team, who finished last season as Class 3A State Champions for the first time ever! Three of the team's seven runners finished in the top six, with Pippa Barrett '26 running a personal best 19 minutes, 10.95 seconds to take 2nd place. The championship win followed a district title. Prep PE Department Chair and cross country co-coach Lis Desmond and husband Matt (parents of Helen Desmond '25) were also named District Coaches of the Year. We’re excited that the young team continues to look strong for the seasons ahead. Congratulations to the entire cross country team!
An Out of This World Eclipse Viewing
Last October, as part of the 60th anniversary gala fundraising effort, Math Department Chair Chris Border treated members of the Prep community— including alumni, parents, and students—to a solar eclipse viewing party on Brennand Field. Participants were able to watch the progress of the annular eclipse through a telescope and special eclipse glasses. The entire event was simultaneously recorded through a video camera connected to a second telescope, allowing Chris to capture incredibly detailed images of the eclipse. Thank you to all who attended, and to Chris for making it such a special and educational experience!
Welcome!
Welcome to the seven amazing new members of Prep’s faculty and staff who joined us for the 2024-2025 school year. We’re thrilled to have them with us on campus.
Anders Fristedt, Director of Experiential Education; Carolyn Starks, Co-Director of College Counseling; Ken Grob, Biology; Callie Carew-Miller, English; Anna “Taz” Roberts, Front Office Manager, Emma Koolpe '17, Math; Charlotte Penner, School Nurse & Health Coordinator
Prep Joins the Global Online Academy
2024-2025 marks Prep’s inaugural year as a member of the Global Online Academy (GOA) international consortium of schools. GOA is an impressive online school founded in 2011 by ten enterprising independent schools. Today, GOA is comprised of over 140 public and private schools across six continents and from more than 30 countries. Spearheaded by Kendel Fesenmyer—Prep’s Director of Studies, History Department Chair, and now GOA Site Director—our membership in GOA allows Prep juniors and seniors in good academic and behavioral standing, and who are on track with their graduation requirements, to take a semester- or year-long elective as part of their six-course load and included in their Prep tuition. This year, upwards of twenty Prep students are taking such courses as filmmaking, social psychology, multivariable calculus, and medical problem solving.
Why did Prep choose to join GOA? GOA expands our curricular offerings, allowing students to explore their interests and pursue their passions in small class sizes with outstanding faculty. Our membership also affords Prep students the opportunity to meet and learn with a diverse array of classmates, all while strengthening essential skills that will allow them to thrive in a globally-networked society. Despite some initial hiccups with time zones and a different learning management system (Canvas), our students are enthused about the stimulating course content, interesting and challenging assignments, responsive and supportive GOA teachers, and friendly, outgoing classmates. They appreciate the flexibility of asynchronous coursework, the high degree of collaboration, and the connections they are making with new friends and teachers from around the world. We are especially proud of this first Prep-GOA cohort and could not be more pleased with our decision to join GOA.
A Young Alumna Returns to Prep
This year, we are lucky to count six former Prep students as members of our faculty and staff. The newest addition, joining us this fall, is 2017 grad Emma Koolpe. Emma returned to Santa Fe after earning her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Special Education from Minnesota State University, and following several years of teaching high school math in Rochester, MN. She recently sat down for a Q&A about returning to her high school in a new capacity, classes she remembers fondly from her student days, and which former teachers she’s most excited to now call her colleagues
What inspired you to want to return to your home town and to this new position at your high school?
At Santa Fe Prep, I discovered my love for learning, thanks in no small part to the genuine care and interest my teachers showed me—not just academically, but personally as well. Their dedication made me eager to dive deeply into my studies. Now, returning to Prep as an educator myself, I’m driven by the desire to offer my students the same level of care and commitment that was so impactful for me. What classes are you teaching?
What were your favorite classes when you were at Prep?
My absolute favorites were math and acting. Brad Fairbanks and I have a close relationship, I’d even go so far as to call him my mentor. If I wasn’t in math class, eager to learn and grasp the material, I was likely in the auditorium, chatting with Brad and practicing my singing.
Which faculty or staff members who you knew as a student are you most excited to now be working with as colleagues?
All of them! They were instrumental in nurturing my passion for teaching. It’s been fascinating and thrilling to view them from a fresh perspective. As a high school student, I had no idea how much dedication and effort my teachers put into crafting assignments, tests, and even comments at the end of the quarters. They didn’t just know me as a student, they also understood me as a person beyond the classroom. However, It did make me laugh when I had to remember to call my previous teachers, now colleagues, by their first names instead of addressing them by their more formal teacher names.
A couple months into your first school year as a teacher at Prep, what has been your favorite event or moment?
Over the past months, I've had a number of memorable experiences, both big and small. One that stands out is when a student approached me in the period between classes and said, "I’m so sad I don’t have your class today." Those simple words touched me deeply and kept a smile on my face for the rest of the day.
I am teaching Integrated Math I and II. My students are mostly 9th and 10th graders.
What are you most looking forward to about the school year ahead?
I tell my students every year that I look forward to learning from them even more than they learn from me! I cherish the “aha!” moments when students finally grasp something new, and the only way to make those moments happen is by understanding how they learn and how their minds work.
Educator Accolades
In 2024, Prep faculty members kept busy with passion projects, academic honors, a new P(r)EP Talk series, and trips around the world.
Since 2009, Prep staff and faculty members have been afforded the opportunity to travel far and wide thanks to grant funds from the EE Ford-Conway Family Summer Sabbatical. This past summer, two members of our team used their grants to explore their passions, both at home and abroad.
Curricula autonomy and an institutional commitment to recognize and reflect local culture and history are part of the bedrock of faculty pedagogy at Prep. Eighth grade English teacher Breshaun Joyner considers this learning environment a unique opportunity to teach and profoundly connect students to Shakespeare’s plays—specifically Macbeth—via a southwestern milieu. Breshaun posits that the witches of Macbeth are not supernatural beings, but humans with an intimate knowledge of natural medicines and a commitment to ritual practices; the ingredients of the infamous “Double double, toil and trouble” cauldron stew are not literal entrails and body parts, but real plants and herbs used for therapeutic purposes. Natural healing practices using homeopathic elements have a rich history in cultures throughout the world, notably Curanderismo, a folk healing tradition of the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Breshaun used her summer sabbatical to take a course in Curanderismo at UNM,
through which she explored how to connect characters from the 400+ year-old “Scottish play” to the centuriesold conventions of traditional healing. For two weeks, she learned the history of Curanderismo and the various herbs, plants, and oils used in different rituals and remedies. Health professionals from Mexico, New Mexico, Colorado, and Guatemala shared their teachings in techniques like laugh therapy (risa terapia), the ceremonial use of the sweat lodge (temazcal), and the removal of intestinal blockages (empacho). For Breshaun, the most rewarding aspect of the course was bridging the folk healing art to her hypothesis—the cauldron scene is an example of a spiritual cleansing (limpia) served with a medicinal tea (tes medicinal). Breshaun examined the homeopathic properties of each cauldron ingredient in its genuine plant form and determined that Macbeth was suffering from susto, or a kind of PTSD. After all, killing your boss to get ahead would cause most people a fair amount of stress and guilt. Some of the cauldron ingredients soothe upset stomachs (eye of newt, another name for mustard seed), cure headaches (toe of frog, a petal from the Bulbous Buttercup, also known as the Frog’s Foot because of its leaf shape) and treat stomach ulcers (adder’s fork, another name for a relative of the lily family).
The Curanderismo course can be taken multiple times, allowing Breshaun to refine the cross-cultural and literary connections. The curriculum born from the program will present an alternative interpretation of iconic Shakespeare characters to Prep students, one that reflects the cultural ecology of where they live. Faculty and
Eleventh grade English teacher Drew Walker’s sabbatical enabled him to travel to Japan for two weeks of intensive Zen meditation practice at Rōkoan, an urban Zen hermitage in the heart of Kyoto. Though the main purpose of the trip was to deepen his Zen practice, it was also a spiritual “homegoing” for Drew, who took his first trip to Japan to study Zen practice following his college graduation in 2001, living for several months at Tofukuji Monastery in Kyoto to experience the life of Zen temple priests in training. During that time, Drew developed a meditation practice that he maintained for a few years following his return to the States, before eventually letting it slip away in favor of academic and other pursuits.
In early 2023, Drew renewed his commitment to the practice. His first Zen master from Tofukuji, Roshi Keido Fukushima, passed away in 2011, but his lay successor, Jeff Shore, has continued the legacy of teaching Western students in Japan through his hermitage. Returning to Japan after more than 20 years away was a rare opportunity for Drew to reconnect with a younger part of himself, one that he had never intended to let lie dormant for so long. His two weeks in the hermitage were challenging—nine hours of meditation daily in the sweltering humidity of Kyoto summer, and twice-daily meetings with Jeff. In addition to the sitting, Jeff arranged for Drew to visit Tofukuji to join evening meditation with the monks, to meet the new Roshii, and to pay respects at Roshi Fukushima’s gravesite. Reflecting on his time in Japan, Drew says, “The whole of the experience was life-affirming, rejuvenating, reconnecting. It was a tremendous gift to return to Japan to deepen my spiritual practice, which is aimed at cultivating a more compassionate orientation towards all living beings.”
Congratulations to Rachel Kesler, Upper School history teacher and 12th grade class sponsor, who was recently named a recipient of the 2024 Yale Educator Award! Presented by the Yale Office of Undergraduate Admissions, the award recognizes outstanding educators from around the world who have supported and inspired their students to achieve at high levels and to pursue their goals. Rachel was nominated by her former student and new Yale freshman Virginia Moore '24 "I am overwhelmed with gratitude for Ms. Kesler, for further inspiring me to study Indigenous philosophies, helping me understand my own Indigenous identity, and for being a consistently positive presence for students,” wrote Ginny in her nomination letter. “She uses her keen sense of what it means to be a high school senior to foster a joy in learning that stems from a genuine desire to watch her students thrive. Her infectious energy uplifts everything she does, from facilitating a dunk tank fundraiser to leading conversations as a part of the DEIJ committee. [...] Through sharing personal anecdotes, showing me extreme generosity, and giving advice about how to live life to the fullest, Ms. Kesler changed how I view the world and thus changed my life.”
When he joined the Prep community in 2022, English teacher Adam Lowenstein (known more familiarly to his students as Dr. Lo) began offering short drop-in meditation sessions to students, faculty, and staff. A co-facilitator of the Meditation Club on campus, Adam has also led discussions on mindfulness for 7th and 8th grade students and taught a course as part of the 2023 EE Ford Summer Teachers’ Colloquium titled “Zen, Literature, and the Southwest.” In the spring of 2025, Adam will teach a senior English elective— “Mindfulness in Literature”—in which students will not only read a wide selection of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction, but also learn about and practice mindfulness in a number of ways, from meditation and journaling to observing nature, art, our built environment, and one other.
To open the 20242025 school year, Adam delivered a P(r)EP Talk during Upper School Assembly. P(r)EP Talks are opportunities for faculty to connect with our students by sharing a piece of themselves that wouldn't typically be relayed in the classroom
experience. Through P(r)EP talks, students have the chance to see adults in our community as humans who also grapple with challenges, have fascinating interests, and have purpose beyond our campus. These talks are rooted in our school’s core values of courage, curiosity, resilience, respect, and integrity, and can provide inspiration and pep to those of us lucky enough to hear them.
I’m Adam Lowenstein. You may know me as Dr. Lo. You may also know that I have compared myself to a loaf of sourdough bread. Once upon a time, I asked my 9th graders, as part of an ice breaker activity, to choose a symbol, an object that they felt represented them in some important way. By way of example, I chose a loaf of sourdough. If you’ve been in my class, you may know that I can be a little crusty at times, grumpy, snarky, sarcastic. I have a thick skin, in other words, that protects what I like to think of as a softer, warmer center. Like sourdough, it can be tough to cut through that crusty exterior to access the warmer, kinder me. I may have also joked about buttering me up to get an A in the class, but it’s all a bit fuzzy.
I start with this anecdote because I want to talk about kindness today. Yes I want to talk about kindness to others, but I really want to put the spotlight on kindness to ourselves, because the one can’t happen without the other. There’s a truckload of research, mostly from the last 20 years or so, that supports the cliche that we can’t really love others until we learn to love ourselves. Bear with me. To put it in less icky terms, the more one practices selfcompassion, the easier it can be to give others the benefit of the doubt, to be less critical, less judgmental, less unkind.
My man Dan Harris, former ABC news anchor turned self-proclaimed “mindfulness evangelist” and creator of the excellent meditation app Ten Percent Happier, calls this practice of self-compassion “high-fiving your inner demons.” The practice, in other words, is not to reject or try to silence your inner critic—when you hear that voice start shouting or grumbling, you don’t tell it to shut up—but you welcome it, because after all, that voice is ultimately just looking out for you. So when you start beating yourself up, ask yourself, What would a good friend say to me right now? Notice the warm feels.
In evolutionary psychology, they often talk about what’s called negativity bias, which is our baked-in tendency to look for possible threats to our safety and well being, and indeed, it helped our species survive. Your struggle to be kind to yourself is, arguably, an extension of this threat detection software. Practicing self-compassion, kindness, giving your inner demons a high five, or if it’s easier for you than it is for me, giving them a nice big hug, can short
Faculty and Staff Highlights
circuit this tendency, making you and everyone around you happier and, ultimately, kinder.
There's something else Dan Harris has said that I want to share because I think it’s a nice pocket-sized bit of wisdom about the self-replicating power of kindness. At any given moment, he says, we have two choices, or two spirals that are available to us in our relationship to ourselves and others. The first and decidedly worse of the two is what he calls the “toilet vortex.” It might go like this: You’re down on yourself because something didn’t go right, you didn’t get the grade you wanted on the bio exam or that special someone hasn’t texted you back. You then take it out on other people, and then you feel more miserable, and so on, down the toilet.
The other and vastly superior choice is what he calls the “cheesy upward spiral.” As you practice being kinder to yourself, cutting through that crusty exterior to let some light and warmth in on that softer, kinder center, that shows up in your relationships to others. Your kindness to others makes you feel good, which only makes you want to practice more kindness, and up the cheesy spiral you go.
Because here’s the thing—though we are individuals and are not the same, we are also not separate. Like aspen trees, we are interdependent. Not only do we breathe the same air, we’re made of the same stuff and we depend on each other in countless ways. But our interdependence is harder to see and harder to accept than that of the aspen, and so it takes practice. So here are two practices to boost your kindness, and thereby save the world.
The first is a practice called Loving-Kindness Meditation, rooted in the repeated mantra “May I/you be safe. May I/you be happy. May I/you be healthy. May I/you live with ease.” The second, and admittedly more immediately accessible practice is just doing any easy kind thing and noticing how it makes you feel. Open a door for someone, help someone find something they lost, share your churro, whatever. The important thing is to pay attention to how it makes you feel to even offer the kind thing. It doesn’t matter how it is received—don’t let someone’s crusty exterior trick you into forgetting that we all have bad moments and bad days. Everybody’s going through something, right? Simply notice the warmth that you feel in your own body and mind, and let that carry you on up the cheesy spiral. I’ll close with one more piece of wisdom from Dan Harris, to whom I will owe some serious royalties after this talk. If you can’t be cheesy, you can’t be free.
The Class of 2024 sets out to change the world
On May 31, Prep's 57th Commencement ceremony was held in the Upper School Quad, celebrating the achievements of 46 graduating seniors. In his welcome remarks, Head of School Aaron Schubach spoke of the value and consequence of a Prep education. Beyond its most essential purpose of preparing young people for a college education, Prep readies its students to engage in and build communities.
"I aspire to change the world by sending forth amazing people with broad educations and strong values. Change the world? I am pretty sure that sounds like delusions of grandeur from a principal at a small school. But it’s true. [...] Here's why—education creates personal transformations. In fact it's the only thing that does. [...] When we learn more about the human condition through literature and when science helps us see beyond the surface of the physical world, we are able to temporarily escape the naive confines of our cloistered minds."
To open her graduation address, alumna Karen Phillips '98 shared the poem "Spring" by a Burmese poet who uses the pseudonym Nga Ba, and translated from Burmese by ko ko thett. A testament to the resilience of the class of 2024, Karen wished the graduates a joyful celebration as they prepared to set out into the world in the spring of their lives. Karen reflected on her memories of Prep in the 90s—"a scrappier, grungier place" that nevertheless fostered a passion for language and community, shaping her as a thinker and setting her on her path to become executive director and publisher at Words Without Borders, an organization that cultivates global awareness by expanding access to international writing and creating a bridge between readers, writers, and translators.
"[Prep] is a place that values humanism and humanistic inquiry. That encourages creative expression through the arts, but also excellence on the playing field. That prioritizes service, inviting students to become change-makers in their communities. It is a school rooted in our unique landscape, that fosters a sense of place through outdoor learning. But what I most appreciated as a student, and what I understand is still special about the Prep experience, is the space and freedom it provides to become oneself, to try on different hats, and to defy categories. And as far as I can tell, Prep is still sufficiently, and wonderfully, weird."
Douglas Schwartz Class Speaker Award recipient Virginia Moore used the narrative archetype of "The Hero's Journey" to chart the experiences of her classmates at Prep as well as the adventures that await them as they move on to college and beyond.
"Our lives will continue to shift in ways we can’t even imagine right now. But, in having completed the journey once before, we are equipped beyond belief for whatever the world throws at us. As we enter the liminal space that is the summer before college, we can hold onto the knowledge that once we cross the threshold into the world of the unknown, this isn’t our first rodeo. We have made it through a rigorous and wonderful journey, and we have every ability to do it again."
In their valediction remarks, co-valedictorians Sofia Alexandrescu and Abigail Furlanetto fittingly presented co-metaphors to highlight the uncertainty and excitement for the future of the Class of 2024. When a video of a basilisk lizard walking on water sparked excitement in a 10th grade chemistry class and curiosity about how the beloved Dr. E (Ellee Cook '09) was inspired by a mentor to study lizards while pursuing her PhD, the students were struck by the importance of mentorship and team building in the shaping of one's community. Shifting from the imagery of the basilisk lizard to a sailboat competing in a race further served to highlight this significance of community building.
"We also know that having a good crew—surrounding ourselves with a community of supportive, caring people—will always lend itself to a smoother journey. Having a knowledgeable coach—helpful and passionate teachers, mentors, and leaders—will also aid us on our path. Just as Dr. E found inspiration in her mentor, we too have been shaped by the mentors found in our friends, families, and teachers. We also know that there’s always another race—another opportunity to learn, to succeed, and to grow. We must go into these future races with confidence, excitement, and trust in the crew alongside us."
Congratulations, Class of 2024! We can’t wait to see the many exciting ways you influence your communities.
CURIOUS AND RESILIENT
OUR GRADUATES ARE READY
CONGRATULATIONS, SANTA FE PREP CLASS OF 2024
Throughout my time at Prep, I’ve been able to grow significantly as a student and as a person. I’m thankful for the community and support I’ve encountered here!
— V. Moore, Class of ‘24
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE CLASS OF 2024
• 1 National Merit Finalist
• 1 Davis New Mexico Scholar
• 1 National African American Scholar
• 2 National Hispanic Scholars
• 4 Century Bank Super Scholars
• 6 LANL Foundation Scholars
• 72% of all early action applications were accepted
• Average ACT score is 30, placing the class average in the 93rd percentile nationally.
• Average SAT score is 1344, placing the class average in the 90th percentile nationally.
• Over 90% of the class was awarded merit or need-based scholarships for college.
• $32,097 is the average scholarship per year for students receiving aid at the schools they are attending.
Prep has provided a supportive yet challenging environment in which I have been able to explore a variety of interests, both academic and extracurricular. This school has also given me the confidence and tools to successfully step out of my comfort zone and try new activities and classes. Within Prep’s welcoming community, I’ve made lifelong friends and memories.
— A. Furlanetto, Class of ‘24
OUR GRADUATES ARE ATTENDING:
Arizona State University
Austin College
Bard College (2)
Barnard College
Bowdoin College
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (2)
College of Wooster (2)
Colorado College
Colorado State University, Ft. Collins
Cornell University
CU Boulder (4)
Dartmouth College
Denison University
Gonzaga University
James Madison University
Johnson & Wales University
Mahidol University International College
Northeastern University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
San Diego State University
Savannah College of Art and Design
Scripps College
Skidmore College
Stanford University
UC Santa Cruz
University College Dublin (2)
University of Denver (2)
University of Exeter
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
University of New Mexico (2)
University of Puget Sound
University of San Diego
University of Vermont
University of Washington
William & Mary
Williams College
Yale University
Teaching Leadership, Supporting Service Learning
BEFORE HE JOINED the field of outdoor education, Anders Fristedt had the audacious goal to make a living as a backpacking instructor. Already on an established track in the nonprofit sector with a focus on environmental sustainability, it was a job he never considered a realistic possibility for himself. But when he did eventually take the leap and make a mid-career change, his entire mindset changed with it.
In 2003, Anders re-oriented his focus from the wider environment to the singular individual, becoming a backpacking, kayaking, and backcountry skiing instructor. He led month-long outdoor programs as a certified instructor with NOLS (the National Outdoor Leadership School). His work took him around the country as well as abroad, teaching elementary schoolers and adults alike. When not in the field, he worked on the administrative end to develop systems that would support those field experiences and increase their value to the individual. His history in independent schools includes nine years at United World College-USA in Las Vegas, NM, where he served as Co-Director of Expeditionary Learning.
TAP programs. “One exciting thing about working with 7th through 12th graders is there are a lot of opportunities for leadership,” he explains. “Our middle schoolers go into elementary schools around the community and work with those students. I’m interested in how we see that translate to our upper school students working with their middle school peers.”
A longstanding cornerstone of a Prep education, TAP offers our students the opportunity to engage in acts of service across Santa Fe. For Anders, this means developing a deeper appreciation within our students of the lived experiences of other communities within our small city, the challenges and opportunities of people beyond their families and friend groups. To that end, he is particularly excited about partnerships with Cesar Chavez and Nina Otero elementary schools on Santa Fe’s south side, a new program with Free Bikes 4 Kidz, and park adoption projects in both the Middle School and Upper School via the city’s Parks and Open Space Division.
Suffice it to say, Anders was well-prepared to take on his new role as Prep’s Director of Experiential Education when he joined our staff ahead of the 2024-2025 school year. In his very first days on the job, he was tasked with planning no fewer than ten orientation camping trips. To get a firsthand understanding of these trips and our students’ experiences, Anders joined back-to-back outings, co-chaperoning 9th graders at Agua Piedra Campground near Sipapu and 8th graders at Jacks Creek Campground near the Pecos Wilderness. When he returned to campus, his attention shifted to kicking off this year’s TAP programming.
Still only a few months into his first school year at Prep, Anders sees the development of a peer leadership model as one of the top potential areas for growth in both our ExEd and
Similar to the ways in which TAP service allows our students to disconnect from their bubbles and interact with members of other Santa Fe communities, Anders sees the fully immersive experiences of outdoor education as an opportunity for them to reflect on themselves in a new environment, away from the familiarity and comfort of home. “Taking away their devices changes things, and this generation of students really welcomes that. It’s a gift to them.” While on those trips and disconnected from social media, he says, students discover different versions of themselves. “It’s up to us to help them take the new aspects of themselves that they discover and transfer those traits to their lives back home.”
Anders believes the time our students spend with their TAP groups and on their outdoor education trips will continue to influence them far beyond their time at Prep. “When a student has had a really impactful experience, it’s almost like they can’t put it into words. It’s more of a feeling associated with those experiences and acts of service. So in thinking about the work
we do, what are the experiences that we can offer that will become a core memory of their time with us?”
It is too early in Anders’s tenure at Prep for him to adequately gauge the success of his first round of orientation trips or state confidently what he hopes to accomplish during this first year and beyond. But he is excited for the opportunity to further develop connections between TAP and Outdoor Education and explore the ways in which our school’s core values—courage, curiosity, respect, resilience, and integrity— inform and overlap in those programs. He returns to the idea of leadership and the opportunities our students of all ages are given to become leaders. “We’re teaching them how to be comfortable in challenging situations.”
For Anders, the ultimate goal is to help students discover something they’re personally passionate about throughout their time at Prep so that, by the time they reach senior year, they’re readily taking on leadership roles as part of their selfguided service programs and Senior Internship Projects. “By the time they’re seniors, ideally, they’re not just tolerating, but thriving through challenges.”
Santa Fe Prep is proud to partner with the following organizations through our TAP program this year:
Assistance Dogs of the West, Breakthrough Santa Fe, Brookdale Senior Living Santa Fe, Carlos Gilbert Elementary School, Cesar Chavez Elementary School, The Children’s Museum, City of Santa Fe Parks and Open Space Division, Community Care, Continental Divide Trail, Danny Maas Run, El Castillo Life Plan Community, Empty Bowls, Felines & Friends New Mexico, The Food Depot, Free Bikes 4 Kidz, Kearny Elementary School, Kingston Residence of Santa Fe, La Mariposa Montessori School, Leo Club, New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence, Nina Otero Elementary School, Presbyterian Hospital, Reading Quest, Salazar Elementary School, Santa Fe Animal Shelter & Humane Society, Santa Fe Fat Tire Society, Santa Fe Tech Support, Santa Fe Watershed Association, STEM for Girls
Thank you, Chef!
In two years, Chef Eduardo Beltran and his staff have transformed the lunch program at Santa Fe Prep with their passion for food and community.
EDUARDO BELTRAN was a familiar face on our campus long before he took on the role of Santa Fe Prep’s Lunch Program Chef. For years, his position with popular Santa Fe-based Walter Burke Catering placed him in Prep’s kitchen during lunch service, and he regularly served as Event Captain at events the company catered for our community. When the Covid pandemic temporarily shuttered Prep’s kitchen, Eduardo joined the maintenance staff. During that time, he learned about gardening and became passionate about plant life. “It wasn’t my strong suit,” he says. “But it was something good to do while the kitchen was closed.”
But his true passion has always been cooking. Eduardo and his wife Marta—Lunch Program Pastry Sous Chef—immigrated to Arizona from Mexico City 24 years ago. Their earliest jobs were in restaurants and with
landscaping companies. For a decade, Eduardo worked as the assistant chef at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos resort in Chandler, AZ, learning the ropes of banquet catering. When their son Brandon was accepted to study at New Mexico Tech in 2012, the family relocated. Once settled in Santa Fe, Eduardo worked jobs in the kitchens of Capitol Grill and other restaurants around town before he was hired by Walter Burke.
It was during the post-pandemic period in the fall of 2022 that Eduardo ran into Prep CFO Bruce Sachs at an event he was catering. Bruce told him that Prep’s current lunch program caterer was going to be leaving midyear and the administration was considering new options. “That night I went to bed and consulted my pillow,” Eduardo says with a smile. “I decided to propose to Walter that, while I would keep working for him, I would also
take the leap and apply to take over the program myself.” Still a member of the maintenance team at that time and having previously worked in the Prep kitchen, Eduardo knew the students and felt he knew what they liked. His ideas to improve the finances of the program included a vending machine to offset the cost of food and multiple main course options to keep students and teachers from getting bored, including daily gluten free, dairy free, and vegetarian offerings. With Walter’s blessing, Eduardo applied for the position and took over the lunch program in January 2023.
In the nearly two years since, he and his staff have improved morale in the dining hall and have made the lunch program profitable once again, thanks in part to breakfast burrito and vending machine sales as well as on- and off-campus catering events. A program that once served about 120 students and Prep employees daily now regularly serves more than 200, many often returning for seconds. The quality of the kitchen has improved, too, with larger refrigerators and a new stove. Eduardo himself has taken courses on maintaining the space. And what was once a significantly larger team in previous iterations remains small under Eduardo’s leadership, for now. He and Marta arrive each morning between 6 and 7am to make breakfast burritos and ready the day’s main dishes—cooking rice and beans, preparing meats, and hand-
“I love cooking for these kids.”
making fresh salsas and condiments. Joseph Armijo—the program’s Prep Cook, affectionately known around campus as Jojo—readies the salad bar and necessary toppings. The final member of the team is John Montoya, another longtime member of the Prep community. After retiring from our school’s maintenance staff in 2022 at the end of his 33rd year, John returned to campus last school year to join the kitchen staff part-time, assisting with prep and clean-up. Eduardo hopes to eventually expand the team, even offering opportunities for students to learn about working in a kitchen. While he especially enjoys cooking moles, tamales, and other traditional Mexican dishes, Eduardo is conscious of the palates he’s cooking for in the cafeteria. Spicy salsas are always served on the side, but he feels strongly that students should be exposed to new
foods and flavors. To that end, fried food and other more typical dining hall fare like pizza, french fries, and hot dogs are only offered on Fridays. And during National Hispanic Heritage Month, the kitchen staff collaborates with the Spanish Department to prepare traditional dishes from countries like Puerto Rico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic. Eduardo welcomes student feedback and keeps a close eye on what his patrons are eating and what gets thrown away at the end of lunch service. “One time a kid told me he was allergic to vegetables,” he laughs. “At first they weren’t as interested in the moles, but now they’re asking to try new
things. They’re more interested in the different flavors.”
When asked what his favorite part of the job is, Eduardo considers carefully before answering. “The connections with the students. Seeing them come in as 7th graders and getting to know them by the time they graduate.” He adds that he is especially grateful for the seniors who regularly eat in the cafeteria despite the fact that they are the only students with the freedom to leave campus for lunch. He smiles before adding, “They like the spicier salsas, too.”
Ultimately, Eduardo’s main belief and mission is that no one should go hungry. He wants everyone who comes to the cafeteria to enjoy the food and to eat as much as they need. “I feel passionately about this job,” he says, explaining that in the two years since he was named Lunch Program Chef, he has only missed one day of work in the kitchen. “I love cooking for these kids.”
To open the 2024-2025 school year, Prep’s 7th and 8th graders were sorted between four Houses—Aspen, Juniper, Piñon, and Ponderosa. While the House system may have centuries-old roots (wink wink) in the UK education system, the trees from which Prep’s Houses draw their names are fundamental to and intrinsically linked with our New Mexican landscape. Like the interconnected roots of these trees, our youngest students are forming a strong community, bound by shared values, aspirations, and experiences.
House Crests Illustrated by Ronan Ferber '26
Growing Roots
Our magazine’s theme this year is Purpose and Belonging—concepts I consider to be among the most important things a middle school student can feel, and also two of the hardest to cultivate. Let’s be honest: aren’t these things we all, as humans, want? To feel that we have a purpose and are making a difference, and to have a place where we feel we belong? Both are fundamental tenets of any community of people. In that vein, we intentionally and thoughtfully decided to bring a House system to the Prep Middle School in the 2024-2025 school year.
Dividing students into houses is a practice that dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries, primarily in British public and private schools. If you research the origins of these house systems, you’ll find that one of the key purposes was to foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork and to instill a sense of loyalty within and among students—all while sprinkling in a dose of healthy competition.
The Prep Middle School is positioned as the entry point for our community. This year alone, we welcomed students new to the state and from 15 different elementary schools around the Santa Fe area. I’m sure many of us remember entering the most (adorably) awkward and tumultuous years of our own adolescences while also navigating new friendships and classmates. Building community is imperative to helping our students in their transitions to middle and high school.
The House system offers students an immediate sense of belonging as they start their journeys at Prep. In the first week of school, they are inducted into a House; alongside their fellow House members, they are united with the common purpose of competing for their House. Together they develop unique House chants and cheers, create murals, and participate in games and activities.
A vital component of this healthy competition is the ability for every student to earn points for their House. It
...an immediate sense of
is important that everyone in our community feels they can contribute in a meaningful way. This means that House points are not just awarded for winning games, but for things like off-campus service hours, participation in assembly, and attendance at sporting and art department events. Griffin Pride points are awarded by teachers and other Prep staff members to students who go above and beyond to care for members of our community. Ultimately, Houses are rewarded for displaying the core values we work to instill in our students.
Our new Houses will not only foster camaraderie, teamwork, and accountability, but will also create an invaluable sense of belonging and purpose for each student as they begin the journey of a Prep education. Already, they are bringing an incredible energy and loads of fun to the Middle School.
— Heather Robinson, Head of Middle School
HAspen House is represented by the graceful and interconnected Aspen tree. Like this iconic tree, Aspen House embodies community, growth, and the beauty of diversity. The Aspen tree's ability to thrive in groves, where individual trees are connected by a common root system, reflects the interconnectedness of the students within Aspen House. Each student brings their own unique talents, strengths, and perspectives to the community, enriching the collective experience and creating a sense of belonging for all
Juniper, we’re the best We're gonna beat the rest! Flying high to the sky We’re gonna take you for a ride! Juniper! Juniper! Juniper!
Juniper House is represented by the sturdy and resilient juniper tree. Much like this tree, which thrives in harsh conditions and remains evergreen through the changing seasons, Juniper House embodies strength, perseverance, and growth. Moreover, the juniper tree has long been associated with protection and healing. In ancient folklore, it was believed to ward off negative energies and bring good fortune. Similarly, Juniper House serves as a safe haven for its members, offering support, encouragement, and a nurturing environment where students can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.
I wanted to become a House Captain because, when I was a new student at Prep, I experienced firsthand how challenging it can be to find a sense of belonging and connect with others. The house system presents a unique opportunity to build close-knit communities beyond the classroom, creating a supportive environment where students can form meaningful relationships. I realized that many students, like myself, might struggle to find their place or connect with peers outside their usual circles.
I also wanted to become a House Captain because, due to a prolonged injury, I’m unable to participate in sports, which has been an important part of my school life. Despite this setback, my passion for contributing to school life remains strong. I've always found joy in helping around school, whether it's supporting events, organizing activities, or fostering a sense of community. As House Captain, I saw an opportunity to channel this enthusiasm into a meaningful role that could positively impact my peers. I wanted to leverage my skills and dedication to create a supportive environment where everyone felt valued and connected. This role was a way for me to stay actively involved, make a difference, and contribute to our school community in a new and fulfilling way.
— Ziv Rosen ’29 (Aspen)
In the coming months and years, I can see the House system being a way middle schoolers can bond and make connections outside their grade—similar to advisory, but on a much larger scale. I have seen people step out of their comfort zones and befriend people they may not have otherwise talked to if not for the House system, and I think this is something that will continue to grow alongside this system. I also think it will introduce more aspects of friendly competition into the middle school, which may help with team spirit and further bring students together, uniting not necessarily against each other, but together via an aspect of competition and camaraderie. I think the house system could eventually be introduced into the Upper School, in a way that encourages more interaction between the Middle and Upper Schools, as there currently aren’t many opportunities to do so.
— Jaden Rand ’29 (Piñon)
...shaping traditions...
I wanted to be a House Captain because it meant I would get to make changes and influence my community, as well as shape traditions in the Prep Middle School. As a House Captain, you have to be a role model to your community and support not only your friends but everyone. The opportunity to get to know people on a deeper level appealed to me and encouraged me to apply to be a Captain.
—
Nicole MacDonald ’29 (Juniper)
One of the most memorable experiences for me since the House system was introduced was the House Games that took place at the beginning of the school year. It was an incredible opportunity for me to lead my group in a series of fun and engaging activities. The support and teamwork among the members of my House were truly inspiring— we all cheered for each other, and the sense of unity and positivity was even more rewarding than our victory streak in the games. Witnessing how we collaborated without any negativity was truly remarkable. For example, on our third activity, we played a rock paper scissors-based game; everybody was extremely supportive and all chanted each other's names. I firmly believe that the continuation of the House system will significantly contribute to making a more inclusive, supportive, and friendly environment in the middle school. That will make Prep a better place, if that's even possible!
— Alhiana Quintana De Andres ’29 (Ponderosa)
...unity and positivity...
A highlight of mine from the House system was getting to do our first House competitions. It was so much fun getting to play games with everyone in my House and getting to know each other better. We got some House points and enjoyed ourselves while doing that. Everybody was so enthusiastic about all the games and we all had a ton of fun. We also got to see who in our House was better at certain games, like hopping through hula hoops really fast in the roshambo showdown or getting five questions correct in Jeopardy. It was great to see everyone’s unique abilities. It’s great to see every House have great sportsmanship whether we win or lose. It’s these things that make this my highlight of the House system so far.
—
Amado McWilliams ’29 (Aspen)
Who are we? Peaceful, Including, Ñice, Original, Nutty. Who are we? Piñon!
Piñon House is symbolized by the resilient and versatile Piñon Pine tree. Like this iconic tree, Piñon House embodies adaptability, resourcefulness, and a deep connection to the rich tapestry of our school community. The Piñon Pine's ability to thrive in diverse environments reflects the inclusive and welcoming nature of Piñon House. The Pińon Pine is also known for being fruitful and providing nourishment for others in their habitat. Just as the tree's roots spread far and wide, Piñon House embraces students from all backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among its members.
Ponderosa
Strong and tall Together we’ll rise And win it all!
Ponderosa House is symbolized by the majestic and towering Ponderosa Pine tree. Like this iconic tree, Ponderosa House represents strength, resilience, and a deep-rooted connection to our school's community. The Ponderosa Pine's pine cones, with their robust structure and protective scales, symbolize growth, regeneration, and the promise of new beginnings. Likewise, Ponderosa House encourages innovation, creativity, and the pursuit of new ideas, fostering a culture of exploration and discovery among its members.
The House system allows 7th and 8th graders to help out and feel more connected to each other and Prep. A great example of this was when members of Juniper House came together during lunchtime to help out our facilities staff to set up the lunch room for the rest of the school. During House games, everyone is hyped up and excited to be a part of a team. In the future, I’d like to see the House system grow throughout the grades, maybe even into Upper School. I think there will be more games, more opportunities for community, and more participation at events like sports games. The energy is so much fun to be around and even more fun to help lead!
— Faith Rosen ’29 (Juniper)
As a new 8th or incoming 7th grader, the House system is a great way to help people feel included in the Prep Middle School community. Being placed in a House gives students an instant group of peers and older students to look up to, making it easier to connect with others and make friends. The activities and competitions provide opportunities to bond with Housemates, creating a sense of belonging and team spirit. Additionally, the sense of identity and pride associated with being part of a House makes people feel more connected to the school, helping them transition into this new environment with confidence.
— Ginger Villarubia ’29 (Piñon)
...connect, compete & cheer
We’re only a few months into the school year, but I can already say the new House system makes everything so much more fun. The Houses add an exciting dimension to Prep that really showcases what makes our school great. From the amazing House Games, to chatting with fellow members and the other captains around campus, it’s been a blast—especially watching Team Ponderosa take an early lead. One of my favorite moments was during the first House Games when my team and I worked together and got so close to winning House Jeopardy, losing by only one point. It was really cool to see how our House cheered each other on and worked together to do our best. Even though it’s only been a few months, I’m really excited to see how the House system continues to grow and how our teams will perform throughout the year. I can’t wait to cheer on all the other Houses as we compete together. Go Team Ponderosa!
— Nathan April ’29 (Ponderosa)
SANTA FE PREP IS AN AMBITIOUS AND DIVERSE LEARNING COMMUNITY DEDICATED TO ACTIVE DISCOURSE. WE VALUE OUR PLACE IN THE COMMUNITY OF SANTA FE, WHICH ENRICHES AND DEFINES US. WE CULTIVATE QUALITIES OF CHARACTER, SCHOLARSHIP, AND CITIZENSHIP IN OUR STUDENTS THAT INSPIRE THEM TO ACT RESPONSIBLY AND COMPASSIONATELY AT HOME, AT SCHOOL, AND IN THE WORLD. THROUGH THE MANY DIALOGUES THAT UNFOLD ON CAMPUS EACH DAY, OUR STUDENTS EXERCISE THEIR MINDS IN ACTIVE INQUIRY. THE DISCOURSE OF SANTA FE PREP PROMOTES THE JOY OF DISCOVERY, THE POWER OF CRITICAL THINKING AND REFLECTION, AND THE THRILL OF CREATIVITY. OUR COMMITMENT TO COLLABORATIVE LEARNING FOSTERS AN INCLUSIVE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT GROUNDED IN TRUST, WHERE STUDENTS HONOR AND RESPECT EACH OTHER AND THEMSELVES. THE WORLD IS FULL OF POSSIBILITY. EMPOWERED WITH THE VALUES AND QUALITIES INHERENT IN OUR SCHOOL, OUR STUDENTS CAN EMBRACE LIVES OF THOUGHTFUL PURPOSE.
ANNUAL REPORT 2023/24
Jenny
Sara
Guillermo
Estevan
Christine
Thao
Suzanne
Fred
Dennis
Carol
Leslie
Jenna
Warren
2024 /
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Aaron Schubach, Head of School
Ashley Satterthwaite, Associate Head of School and Head of Upper School
Heather Robinson, Head of Middle School
Kaitlyn Atencio, Director of Learning Services
Hayley Burke, Co-Director of College Counseling
Kendel Fesenmyer, Director of Studies
Anders Fristedt, Director of Experiential Education
Dieu Ho, Executive Director of Breakthrough Santa Fe
Todd Kurth ’81, Director of Athletics
Mary Little, Director of Admissions & Marketing
Catherine McKenzie, Director of Library Services
Michael McNeill, Director of Advancement
Sam Ritter, Director of Davis New Mexico Scholarship
Bruce Sachs, CFO
Carolyn Starks, Co-Director of College Counseling
Nick Stofocik, Director of Facilities
John Utsey, Director of Technology
Matt Ybarra, Program Director, ROCA NM Santa
From the Head of School
DEAR SANTA FE PREP COMMUNITY:
This has been a year of celebration. At the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, our entire faculty, staff, and student body celebrated Santa Fe Prep’s 60th birthday by forming a giant 60 together out on Brennand Field—truly a reflection of how well we all work together to make this school great! It was an exciting day for us all, and the festivities continued throughout the year.
Generosity to Prep is what made 60 years possible, and we enthusiastically present to you this annual report of the school’s finances and recognize those who have given to this year’s fundraising efforts.
What’s next? Behind the scenes last fall, I had the great pleasure of working with our Advancement team as well as members of our Board of Trustees to articulate a compelling case for support for a campaign that will lead Prep into a bold and bright future. Our “Prep Forward” campaign represents our continued dedication to providing tuition assistance to an increasingly diverse student body, our commitment to maximizing support of faculty and staff, and our
forward-thinking advances in curriculum and learning services programs will assure Prep’s continued role in the community as a model for educational excellence. Quiet phase support has been tremendous, and we look forward to including everyone in the effort as our fundraising momentum continues.
You may not know that in our Advancement office at Prep, we have a bell that we ring each time the school receives a gift. This year, in addition to our early campaign efforts, the fundraising bell has been ringing off the hook as parents (past and present), alumni, trustees,
grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends of the school have continued to give generously to support the school’s Annual Fund and endowment. A total of $518,000 was raised for our 2024 annual fund, $562,950 was added to the endowment, and a total of $850,000 was committed in multiple-year pledges to future annual giving. Finally, our alumni reached their annual goal of “funding two Griffins” and made it possible for two students to come off of the tuition assistance waitlist for 2024-2025.
Donors see the impact of their giving in each of the numbers presented here in the Annual Report.
For the first time in our school's history, more than $2,000,000 was awarded in tuition assistance. What's more, 40% of our students identify as students of color. Our salaries and benefit packages remain competitive, we generously support professional development, we have continuously made improvements to our campus, and we do all this while generating support for an ambitious future.
Aaron Schubach Head of School
PREP FORWARD
Elevating Excellence, Innovating for the Future
Our students and teachers live, work, and learn in rapidly changing and challenging times. The PREP FORWARD campaign will support and empower them and our institution in four distinct ways:
Expanding Access to a Santa Fe Prep Education.
Access
A Santa Fe Prep education opens a world of possibilities through an active education preparing students for lives of uncommon purpose. As we look to the future, we are committed to ensuring talented students across Santa Fe have access to an education that changes lives:
+ Tuition Assistance
+ Endowment
+ Impact Fund
Curricular Innovation for a Dynamic World
Program
Prep students build academic skills and develop the knowledge necessary to thrive in a complex world. With intentionality and support, we aim to build upon our traditional sources of strength and become a city and statewide leader in many programmatic areas, including learning support and applied sciences:
+ Investments in STEM
+ Prep Center for Learning Excellence
PREP FORWARD is a bold and innovative campaign that will set Prep up for a maximally impactful and purpose-driven future. Together, as we support access to a Prep education, teaching excellence, student learning, and community building, we will ensure Prep students now and in the future will engage in an active education that promotes lives of uncommon purpose.
Today and going forward, we build upon our foundation of excellence by investing in our school’s purpose, people, and programs to meet the challenges of our time and forge our school’s legacy for the present and for generations to come.
People
Talented, experienced educators lead our students. Attracting and retaining these professionals is a top priority. Investing in innovative solutions for recruitment and retention will ensure our students continue to receive an exceptional education:
+ Distinguished Faculty Chairs
+ Down Payment Assistance
+ Teaching Fellowship Program
Supporting Exceptional Educators in ‘The City Different’
Spaces
Reconfigured spaces will enhance teaching and learning as well as create a safer, more vibrant campus for our Prep community and visitors alike:
+ Makerspace and STEM Learning Expansion
+ Prep Center for Learning Excellence
+ Classroom Reconfiguration
+ Securing Student and Faculty Parking
Enhancing Spaces in Support of Learning and Teaching
PREP FORWARD will provide immediate as well as endowed support to elevate Prep as we remain true to our name by PREParing our students, educators, and community for the future.
Advancement at Santa Fe Prep
2023/2024 ADVANCEMENT COMMITTEE
Leah Swanson, Chair
Liz Bremner
Jenny Cohen Kaufman '94
Randy Dry
Estevan Gonzales
Adelma Hnasko '92
Thao Marquez
Michael McNeill
Claire Pfister
Leslie Ann Ross
Jenna Scanlan
Aaron Schubach
Advancement Committee Report
THE SCHOOL’S TUITION REVENUE does not cover the cost of operations, and therefore the purpose of this committee is to develop a plan to raise the difference – approximately $3,500/student! The Santa Fe Prep advancement committee takes a thoughtful approach to all of its fundraising efforts throughout the year, and seeks, largely, to gain the support of the Prep parent body toward the operations budget. However, in addition to raising funds from fellow parents, we make a community-wide plan each year to “balance the books” through philanthropy. We are grateful to witness so much generosity from the larger Prep family –extending to Grandparents, Alumni, Foundations, Corporations, Past Parents, and long-term friends of the school. We know that the success of this committee all depends on YOU and every donor listed in this report. As we see our own kids thriving at Prep, we are proud to ask others, in the spirit of gratitude, to join us in this important effort.
Leah Swanson Advancement Committee Chair
Santa Fe Prep Annual Fund Donor Recognition 2023-2024
FOUNDERS
$25,000+
Stephen Badger
Stephen and Karen Bershad
Edward and Maria Gale
Santa Fe Prep Booster Club
Santa Fe Prep Parents' Association
ELRINGTON BELL SOCIETY
$10,000-$24,999
Anonymous (2)
Charnes Chiu and Kathryn Chan
Jenny Cohen Kaufman '94 and Justin Kaufman
Josh Klinefelter '93 and Kelsey Klinefelter
Claire Pfister and David Paradice
Christina Price and Connor Browne
Antoinette Silvey '82
Thornburg Investment Management, Inc.
Nancy Meem Wirth
Andrew Wallerstein and Mary Sloane
HEAD OF SCHOOL’S CIRCLE
$5,000-$9,999
Sara and Daniel April
Catherine Dry and Guillermo Bleichmar
Randy Dry and Ocean Munds-Dry
Alice and Greg Dunn
Eric Enfield '77 and Kelly Sue Enfield
Ariana and William Feinberg
Dominic and Celia Garcia
Ward and Clara Hendon
Benjamin and Holly Kirby
David and Amanda Kocon
Thao and Samuel Marquez
Shobhan Porter '88 and Joel Rowland
Leslie Ross and Adriana Molina
Judy Sanchez
Pablo Sanders '95 and Rochi Cantu
Richard Sanders '94
Jenna and Wilson Scanlan
Philip and Jessica Smucker
Leah and Sloan Swanson
Owen and Katherine Van Essen
Todd Vaziri and Kearsley Higgins
Rachel and Richard White
GRIFFINS
$2,500-$4,999
Anonymous (2)
Rebecca and Brant Bair
Jamie Berg '91 and Ethan Berg
Liz Bremner and Karen Crow
J.P. Dahdah '93
Estevan and Adi-Risa Gonzales
Chris and Sally Harvey
Vivienne Harwood
Rebecca and Sean Healy
Adelma Hnasko '92 and Thomas Hnasko
Susan Kurien and Bruce Roscherr
Christine and Jonathan Lehman
Stephen and Meredith Machen
Phil and Julie Murray
Nancy Ann Mellen Foundation
Fred and Arlyn Nathan
Michael Schriber and Christina Alfieri
Peter Spier '94 and Stacey Spier
Thomas Spier '96 and Stephanie Spier
Kristin and Douglas Thal
The Walt Disney Company
SUN MOUNTAINEERS
$1,000-$2,499
Patricia and David Baker
Steven Barrett and Katie Arnold
David Blick and Suzanne Thornton
The Bodell Gubelmann Family
Eveline and Magnus Brunner
Chris Chakeres '94 and Sheena Chakeres
Nathaniel Chakeres '98 and Almea Matanock
George and Lorelei Chappell
Cudd Foundation
Jacqueline Davis and John Anderson
Josh and Mitra Devon
David and Deborah Douglas
Kate Ferlic and Christopher Stanek
Andrea Fiegel
Dylan Fuge '97 and Alexis Fuge
Philip and Amy Geier
Tim and Keri Goorley
Girish Ganesan and Sampreetha Govindankutty
THANK YOU so much to every donor who, through their annual gifts to Prep, help make so many great things happen for our students.
Jim and Donna Griffith
Noel Harvey '87
Cindy-Ann and Michael Hersom
Cory Hirsch and Martha Arnett
Miquela and Kevin Korte
Adrienne and Jack Ladd
Erik Litzenberg '90 and Melissa Litzenberg
Marcia and Bill Litzenberg
Alexander and Karen LoRusso
Los Alamos National Laboratory
Sidway McKay '69 and Bev Nelson
Michael McNeill
Natalie Meek '94 and Corbin Meek
Cameron and Adamantios Miranda
Helen Neill '84
Frances Parker and Russell Olson
Fabrice Penot
Joohee and Lee Rand
Thomas Ritter and Christine Keller
Robert Moody Foundation
Dennis Romero
William Scarborough
Gracie Schild '78
Aaron Schubach and Anna Sass
Shell Oil Company Foundation
Jay and Katherine Shelton
Karen and Tom Tiegler
Marie Wilkinson and Cyril Christo
Jeff Willis and Jerry Fairbrother
PREP FRIENDS
$5-$999
Anonymous
Audrey Abeyta and Jose Franco
Jan and Rick Adesso
Jessica Aguirre and Lidia Gutierrez
Scott Akin and Christine Ross
Mark and Martha Alexander
Radu Alexandrescu and Roxana Raicu
Rebecca Allahyari
Kristina Alley and Timothy Farrell
Karen Andersen '95 and Alex Hlavacek
Blair and Stewart Anderson
Rebecca and Chris Anderson
Christian and Maggie Andersson
Summar Aubrey '00 and Julian Garrett
Katharina and Paul Babcock
Ted Babcock and Cathy Griffith
Jennie and Maurizio Baccante
Stephanie Barks '71
Jesús Bas
Christopher and Taylor Bassett
Canton and Leah Becker
Dustin Belyeu '95 and Brooke Belyeu
Yesenia Bermejo
Alicia Bertram '09
Amalia Bertram '14
Genevieve Betts and David LeBard
Reed Bienvenu '01 and Rosalind Bienvenu
Nathaniel and Janice Biletnikoff
Brian Birk
Satara and Tai Bixby
Mark Bixby
Russ Bixby
Cynthia and Bruce Bolene
Chris Border
Lee and Libby Boyle
Juli Bray-Morris
Elizabeth and James Brockmann
Justin Brown '00
Julian Buetens '90 and Amy Buetens
Hayley Burke
Rochelle and Will Bussey
Dave Caldwell and Elizabeth Ortiz
Julie Campbell '75
Andrew Carpenter '84 and
Rebecca Carpenter
Frances and Carlos Carreon
Linnea and Courtney Carswell
Sarah Carswell '92 and Richard Stump
Ajoy Chandra
Chevron Matching Gift Program
Stewart Chritton '76 and Laura Chritton
Marissa Chrysler
Larry and Marilyn Cohen
Jocelyne Comstock
Ellee Cook '09
Matthew Cook and Sherry Kelley
Jeffrey Cooper and Nancy Klaus
Luz Corrales
Allegra Correll '11
Moffett Craig
Matt Declerck and Martha Yazdani-Declerck
Natasha Deighton and David Busby
Elisabeth and Matt Desmond
Martha and John Desmond
Cheney Doane
Erin and Charles Doerwald
Jackson Dooling '14
W. Houston Dougharty '79 and Kimberly Dougharty
Jennifer Dryfoos
Andy Dudzik
Micayla Duran and Parker Jennings
Brian Egolf Jr. '95 and Kelly Egolf
Dicki Lou Ellis-Brassington '69 and Doug Brassington
Tim Enfield '09
Zander Evans and Emily Haozous
Brad Fairbanks Karen Burbank
Jess Falkenhagen and Tiller Russell
Ambrose Ferber '93 and Rebecca Ferber '96
Patrick Firme
Kristina Fisher '98
Alexandra Fleming '01
Lucy Foma '05
Matt and Heather French
Liz Friary
Melissa and Andrew Fricek
David Friedland and Sarah Davis
Alan and Gosia Friedman
Benjamin Friedman '91 and Rocio Alvarez
Christine and Richard Furlanetto
Michael and Cynthia Furlanetto
Joaquin Garofalo and Jaclynn Castanon
Dan and Kristin Gasteazoro
Sandra and Van Gilbert
Shirley and Jim Goering
Andrea and Arthur Gonzales
Debra and Leo Gonzales
Joseph Gonzales
MacDonnell Gordon '69 and Charlene Shildmyer
Katharine Griffing
Augusta Gronquist '10
Peter Hagen and Lindsay Faulkner-Hagen
Katharine Handler '88
Matthew Harland '79 and Katie Harland
Catherine Harvey
Anna and Rob Hastings
Christine and Nathan Hathaway
Morgan and Kathryn Hees
Kris and Virginia Hendricks
Jacqueline Herrell
Tom Hill
Robb and Numi Hirsch
Dieu Ho
Gerardo Horta Jaime
Kevin and Mariana Ivens
Mauricio Jaime Andrade
Jessica and Zach James
Jessica Janney
Dina and Douglas Jansen
Dennis Jasso and Inga Hendrickson
Hadley and Madeleine Johnson
Breshaun Joyner and Ralph Bolton
Kai Sushi & Dining
Jeannette Kelly
Allyn and Brian Kennedy
Rachel Kesler
Zoe Kiklis '08
Karl Kilborn '86
Carol Kurth
Robinson Kurth '83 and Kelly Beatley
Todd Kurth '81 and Kendel Fesenmyer
John Pen La Farge '69
Alexandra Ladd and Christopher Graeser
Oscar Alfredo Loya
Byrne Larsen
Renata and Solar Law
Jessica and Earl Lawrence
Zoe Ledbetter
Morgan and Sarah Meghan Lee
Philipp Lehmann '99
Jim and Story Leonard
Sharman Leventon and Matthew Nerzig
Hanna Levin
Jesse Levin '98 and Shane Plossu
Renny and Maria Levy
Mary and Kent Little
Matthew and Tammy Logghe
Clea Lopez '96 and Edward Huyck
Nicola Lopez '93
Adam Lowenstein
Leza Lowitz and Shogo Oketani
Katie Macaulay and James Attlesey
Jennifer and Robert MacDonald
Meade Martin '72 and Robin Martin '70
Erika and Marcos Martinez
Johnna and Tony Marlow
Gabriella Masoni
Wendy McCain
Ross and Rebecca McDonald
Susan and William McIntosh
Jason McKenna '94
Catherine McKenzie
Randy McWilliams and Donaji Ramirez
Michael Meade '06
Jodi Medell
Ismael Mena
Karen Michael '69
Frances Milliken '05
Toner Mitchell '81 and Cullen Curtiss
Seth Montgomery '12
Mario and Nadine Montoya
Barry and Jo Ann Moore
Brent and Mary Ann Moore
Antonio and Kristin Mora
Sarah Mulkey Hussion '98 and Timothy Hussion
Matt and Annie Mullins
Yuki Murata and Chris Long
Raymond Newell and Adriana Reyes Newell
Chris Nordstrum and Rich Brown
Lisa Nordstrum
Cody and Tereza North
Sarah Noss '78
Dustin Offermann and Lien Shin Wang Offermann
Leah O'Shell and Sam Montoya
David Paez
Alejandra Palos Flores
Janine Pearson and Tim Blose
Aiyana and Stuart Pendleton
Larry and Rose Petry
Karen Phillips '98 and Kyle Olmon
Tony Pinkerton '91
Luis Pinon
Arina Pittman
Greg Pollak '68
Jonathan Powell '82
Katy Power
Mark Prochaska and Rebecca Sam
Aimee and Sean Putnam
Victoria Quijada '68
Brigid Quinn '14
Daniel Quinn '12
Gail and Elliot Rapoport
Jacqueline Rea '97 and Kevin Brown
Joey and Amy Reich
Bradley Reid and Katherine Herrell
Rob and Barbara Reider
Stephanie Reynolds '85
Willy Richardson '92 and Kim Richardson
Heather Rider and Romeo Portillo
Sam Ritter and Katherine Keener
James Rivera and Carla Montoya-Rivera
Jesse Roach '90
Anna and Andrew Roberts
Heather Robinson
Bonnie Rogers
Catherine Rogers '85
Louise Rogers '84
Joel and Patricia Rosen
Rennae Ross and Patrick Foy
Kaitlyn Roy
Vicente Roybal
Yadiner Sabir
Bruce Sachs and Denise DuPont
John and Paula Salazar
Lillie and John Sandoval
Sky Sartorius '04
Ashley Satterthwaite
Angélica Schepps
Jennifer Scott
Thomas Scott and Vanessa Woog
Brian and Eliza Serna
Zack Shandler and Lisa Schub
Jeremy Shelton '91
Kate and Steve Shultz
Daniela Silverstein '92 and Seth Silverstein
Quinn Simons '92 and Laura Veree Parker Simons '94
Elege Simons Harwood '94 and Kyle Harwood
Ben Sleeman
Ashley Smith
Susanna Space and Stephen Yadzinski
Andrew Stahl
Sarah Stark
Meghan and Walter Sterling
Craigie Elizabeth Succop
Aviva Sussman and Scott Broome
Norman and Sandra Swanson
Reena and Michael Szczepanski
Katja Theobald and Kevin Green
Warren Thompson '72 and Mickey Thompson
Sharon and Gene Tison
Thomas Tison and Veronica Aymacana
Jillian Tomlinson
Dechen Tsewang and Cheme Lama
UBS Employee Giving Programs
Ulrich Consulting Group, LLC
Mark and Jodi Urbanak
John and Jackie Utsey
Todd Volz and Camila Friedman-Gerlicz '06
Kathy Wagner
Drew Walker
Michael Walta '94 and Julie Silverhart
Ashley Watson
Alan Webber and Frances Diemoz
Rebecca Weiner '95
Kristin Welch
Carla Westen '94 and Michael Flores
Mary White '77
Peter White '82 and Tina White
Elizabeth Whiting '17
Jalice Wiest '67
Mary Ann and Mark Wightman
Grey Wilburn '10
Kelly Wolpert and Michael Benanav
Brian and Christy Wood
Sharon Woods
Eric and Amy Wynn
Lisa Wynne '93 and Peter Sarkisian '84
Mahvash and Bijan Yazdani
Matt Ybarra and Linda Serrato Ybarra
Fred and June Yoder
Lisa and Stephen Young
Katherine and Douglas Zang
Richard Zierman '89
Ellen Zieselman
Christine Zucker
IN HONOR
In honor of Mark Bixby
Fred and Arlyn Nathan
In honor of Liam Bussey '28
Bonnie Rogers
In honor of Andrew and Kate Davis
Wendy McCain
In honor of Liz Friary
Fred and Arlyn Nathan
In honor of Jean "Parka" Kithil
Karen Philips '98 and Kyle Olmon
In honor of Aiyana Pendleton
Seth Montgomery '12
In honor of Scott Pittman
Arina Pittman
In honor of Gandalf Gaván Riecks
Nicola Lopez '93
In honor of Lynn Robey '19
Jeannette Kelly
In honor of the Santa Fe Prep History Department
Ellen Zieselman
IN MEMORY
In memory of Penelope Elizabeth Bax
Nathaniel and Janice Biletnikoff
In memoy of Carol Bixby
Moffet Craig
In memory of Nancy Stewart Fairbanks Bond
Brad Fairbanks and Karen Burbank
In memory of V. Kirt Fiegel
Andrea Fiegel
In memory of Javier Gonzales
Estevan and Adi-Risa Gonzales
In memory of Robert Kurth
Andrea and Arthur Gonzales
In memoy of Claire Ulam Weiner
Rebecca Weiner '95
GIFTS IN KIND
Brant and Becky Bair
Randy Dry and Ocean Munds-Dry
Charlie Drysdale
Brian Egolf Jr. '95 and Kelly Egolf
Joseph Ginocchio
Patty Lewis
Rennae Ross
The Caritas Society, established by Santa Fe Preparatory School’s Board of Trustees in 2003, recognizes those who wish to remember Santa Fe Prep by testamentary provision in their will or estate plan. The Society, which is an honorary organization, recognizes those individuals who have made a deferred gift to Santa Fe Prep. Besides enabling the school to thank these donors, it encourages them to tell us of their plans and encourages others to make similar gifts to ensure Prep’s future.
Membership in the Caritas Society is open to those who have made bequest provisions or planned gifts in the form of charitable trusts, real estate, or life insurance. Membership in the society is for life.
Anonymous (4)
David and Margaret Alexander
Cathryn and Marc Bertram ’78
Julie A. Campbell ’75
Dr. and Mrs. Larry Cohen
William and Amy Conway
Anita and Joseph Ginocchio
Katie and Matthew Harland ’79
Brad and Lauren Hunt
Lawrence B. and Betsy S. Kilham
Jim and Story Leonard
Gregg and Diana Lowe
Drs. Steve and Meredith Machen
Fred and Arlyn Nathan
Karl and Lisa Ray
Jay and Katherine Shelton
Mickey and Warren Thompson ’72
Jim and Amy Weyhrauch
Alumni Funded Two Griffins, Again!
For the third year in a row, as a result of our annual fundraising efforts, giving during our all-class reunion weekend and from a challenge grant in the spring, Santa Fe Prep alumni contributed enough to fund almost two full scholarships to Prep! What could feel better than Griffins funding Griffins?
THANK YOU, ALUMNI!!
Impact Fund Donors
THE FOLLOWING DONORS CONTRIBUTED GENEROUSLY in support of student tuition assistance in 2023-2024. Thanks to donations to this effort in the past two years, 24 students received tuition assistance that made a Prep education possible. This year's impactful commitments represent close to $250,000.
Stephen and Karen Bershad
Liz Bremner and Karen Crow
Edward and Maria Gale
Josh Klinefelter '93 and Kelsey Klinefelter
Michael Lawrence
Lee and Joohee Rand
Jenna and Wilson Scanlan
Shelby Cullom Davis Charitable Fund
Pablo Sanders '95 and Richard Sanders '94
Peter A. Spier '94 and Stacey Spier
Thomas J. Spier '96 and Stephanie Spier
Steele Family Foundation
Thornburg Foundation
Thank you to everyone for their 2023/24 participation!
If you would like to make a gift or pledge please visit:
www.sfprep.org/supportprep or scan:
Community Members Share Why They Give to the Annual Fund at Prep!
I have contributed every year for the last maybe 25 years, initially as a parent, then as a faculty member, and now as a retiree. When my kids were at SFP, I wanted to assure they got the best education possible and since I knew tuition did not cover the full cost, it seemed right to contribute. At that time in my life I could not contribute much, but I always contributed something because it just felt good. Later in life I was able to give more. My 25 years of teaching at Prep were a high point in my life—I love high school kids, science, and critical thinking, and I combined all these loves while teaching at SFPrep. I am deeply grateful for that opportunity and experience, and one way I can say thank you is by continuing to support. I really really care that kids these days get the best education possible, including critical thinking—how to do the best job separating reality from fiction. I believe Prep does a great job here, and I want to support that.
JAY
SHELTON,
FORMER SCIENCE TEACHER
Parent of Jeremy ‘91 & Reed ‘95
Even 17 years into my tenure at Prep, I still love showing up for the alwaysinsightful and often-hilarious seminars that fill my days. The relationships built in the classroom endure, and I am further fed by maintaining friendships with alumni who go in so many interesting directions after graduating. Perhaps most importantly, the trajectories of my daughters were impacted in profoundly positive ways by receiving a Prep education. For all these reasons and more, my annual gift to Prep is just a small token in recognition of all that I've been gifted in return.
MARK
BIXBY,
UPPER SCHOOL DEAN AND HISTORY TEACHER
Parent of Ruby ‘22 & Cora ‘24
When I graduated from Prep in '92, my mother encouraged me to give to the Annual Fund to thank the school for providing me with tuition assistance and such a stellar education. I listened to her and donated $20. I’ve given annually for 32 years now. My family and I have increased our support for Prep over the years, just as the school has increased its commitment to supporting access, diversity, and inclusion in its community. We give to Prep because Prep gives back to us, and to so many others, generation after generation.
ADELMA HNASKO ’92, FORMER TRUSTEE
Parent of Alexander ‘21 & Cyrus ’25
Our family supports Santa Fe Prep because it opens the door to equitable opportunity for students of every background, and it opens endless opportunities to its graduates. The education and network for each Griffin lasts a lifetime. This experience comes with costs beyond tuition, and we are glad to contribute, knowing that every dollar is well spent.
ESTEVAN GONZALES, TRUSTEE
Parent of Adaiah ’27 & Asher ‘28
Diversity! We give to Prep every year because we feel that it is so important have a diverse population of students and families at Prep and a robust tuition assistance program is essential to make this work. Making Prep accessible to families from all economic backgrounds means that we have a community that is vibrant, interesting, and reflective of our local community. Generous tuition assistance through annual giving and other school fundraisers makes this possible.
KEARSLEY HIGGINS AND TODD VIZIRI
Parents of Maya ’25 & Dexter ’30
We're proud to give to Prep because we believe in the school's mission to provide an exceptional education and foster a close-knit community. We know that greatness comes at a cost —even beyond what tuition covers, and we want to help make Prep available to as many families in Santa Fe as possible. Beyond our annual contributions, as leaders of the PA, we are committed to raising additional funds through initiatives like the Rummage Sale and the gala to support tuition assistance and Breakthrough! It's our way of ensuring that every student benefits from the outstanding opportunities Prep offers.
PARENT ASSOCIATION
CO-PRESIDENTS ELEGE SIMONS-HARWOOD ’94
Parent of Steck ’26 & Meyer ’28
& HEATHER FRENCH
Parent of Isla ’27
I give to Prep because the school has made a significant positive difference in my life, and my wish is for other young people to receive that same gift. There's a gap between the cost of a Prep education and tuition, and I believe that all current families, alumni families, faculty and staff, and friends of the school have the responsibility of contributing whatever they can to bridge that gap and keep the school in strong financial standing. Giving back is integral to Prep as a school, but also helps to reinforce our role as a contributing member of the community through service programs (TAP), Breakthrough Santa Fe, Davis NM Scholars, and the EE Ford grants that allow teacher professional development and housing assistance. When everyone pitches in what they can, the lift is lighter.
CHRIS CHAKERES ‘94, MS SCIENCE TEACHER & FORMER HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL
Endowments at Santa Fe Prep
Endowment Committee Report
THE SANTA FE PREP ENDOWMENT assures the long-term stability of the school. It is to this end that, through thoughtful management and investment strategies, the endowment committee dedicates its time and expertise. In close collaboration with Ulrich Investment Consultants, this group is charged with setting investment policy, determining long and short-term courses of action, and making recommendations to the Board for strategies that adapt to market trends. As of June 30, 2023, the endowment for Santa Fe Prep reached a total of $23,403,762. The endowment is made up of nearly 40 permanently endowed funds, and the school’s 4% annual draw on those funds provides a significant amount of needand merit-based scholarships, faculty professional development opportunities, and general operating support for the school.
Dominic Garcia
Endowment Commitee Chair
2023/2024 ENDOWMENT COMMITTEE
Dominic Garcia, Chair
Sara April
Kristin Bradbury
Connor Browne
Jenny Cohen Kaufman '94
David Kocon
Christine Lehman, Emerita
Michael McNeill
Joohee Rand
Bruce Sachs
Aaron Schubach
Endowment Fund Donors
SANTA FE PREP RECOGNIZES THE IMPORTANCE OF A ROBUST ENDOWMENT to assure the school's future. We give particular thanks to the donors who have contributed to our endowed funds during the fiscal year 2023-2024.
$25,000+
The Malone Family Foundation
$10,000-$24,999
Carl Kawaja '82 and Gwendolyn Holcombe
Phil and Julie Murray
$1,000-$9,999
James Alley III '84
Kristina Alley and Timothy Farrell
Sue and Frank Cannon
Cudd Foundation
Frances Parker and Russell Olson
Linda Vincent
$5-$999
Anne Alley '82
Elisabeth Alley
Samson and Becca Benen
Dorothy Beutler
Nicholas Farrell '22
William and Louisella Frank
Holly Lynton
Carissa and Robert Schneider
Endowment Funds
AS OF JUNE 30, 2024
TOTAL ENDOWMENT
$25,270,865
Breakthrough Operating Fund
$1,062,575
Buckman Scholarship
$304,297
Davis Breakthrough Scholars
$1,640,780
Doris Bry Scholarship Fund
$868,899
EE Ford Summer Teachers Colloquium
$318,069
James and Elisabeth Alley Scholarship Fund
$144,631
Kathryn Wasserman Davis 20th Century History Chair
$913,001
Permanent Endowment Fund Trust
$3,168,654
Spirit of Santa Fe Prep Endowment
$564,831
The Arlene LewAllen Artist Outreach Endowment Fund
$28,276
The Board of Trustees Summer Fellowship Account
$100,354
The David Ginocchio Endowed Scholarship Fund
$370,071
The Edward E. Ford & Margaret P. Driscoll Endowment Fund for Upper School Faculty Summer Study
$223,612
The EE Ford/Conway Faculty Growth & Enrichment Initiative Endowment
$271,619
The Elias Farmer Memorial Scholarship Fund
$380,450
The Endowment for Faculty Compensation and Development
$911,830
The Faculty Professional Development Fund
$292,966
The Goodwin Family Scholarship
$895,310
The Griffin Chair for Inspirational Teaching
$424,608
The Headmaster’s Scholarship Fund
$893,420
The J. Burchenal Ault Library Fund
$324,311
The Jenny and Alice Lee Memorial Scholarship Fund
$140,343
The Kathryn O’Keeffe Endowment for Native American Students
$1,042,880
The Leland Thompson Founders’ Endowment Fund
$304,767
The Leonard Family Scholars Endowment
$3,169,844
The M.A. Healy Chair for Teaching Excellence
$657,037
The Malone Family Foundation Endowment
$2,541,155
The Mary and Ramsay Harris Endowment
$3,531
The Minority Scholarship Endowment Fund
$885,853
The Mordaunt Elrington Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund
$56,409
The Parents’ Association Endowment for Tuition Assistance
$214,517
The Quincy Brave Conway Scholarship Endowment
$83,992
The Robert W. Kurth Endowment
$135,544
The Sage Fund
$479,292
The Sage Endowment 50th Campaign
$121,878
The Santa Fe Preparatory Class of 1988 Scholarship Fund
$10,384
The Tamsin F. Bemis ’84 Memorial Scholarship Fund
$462,784
The William H. Borchers Fund for Teacher Professional Development
$91,938
Tuition Assistance 50th Capital Campaign
$766,150
Santa Fe Prep Report of Finances
Finance Committee Report
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE OF THE SANTA FE PREP BOARD OF TRUSTEES follows NAIS best practices in its management of the school’s resources. Working closely with the Head of School and the Director of Finance, Prep’s Finance Committee builds the annual school budget based on enrollment and fundraising revenue estimations, and addresses institutional priorities and facility needs as determined by the Board of Trustees. As part of its thoughtful fiscal management, the finance committee helps to set philanthropic goals and tuition assistance allocations based on the overall financial health of the school. The expertise of this committee assures a sustainable future for our school.
Annual decisions regarding tuition and salary increases are just part of the crucial work of this group and require a great deal of time and thought. As part of the budget for the 2024-2025 school year, Prep’s finance committee was able to propose a budget (that was approved by the Board) with a salary increase of 4.25% while keeping the tuition increase at just 3.6% -- this after having offered a 6% salary increase in the prior year with a 4.7% tuition increase. The school remains debt free, offers increasingly generous aid packages to incoming students, continues to benefit from increased enrollment, and enjoys the security of a healthy, growing endowment.
David Kocon Finance Commitee Chair
EXPENSES
2023 / 2024
FINANCE COMMITTEE
David Kocon, Chair
Sara April
Ajoy Chandra
Jenny Cohen Kaufman ‘94
Ed Gale
Dominic Garcia
Michael McNeill
Joohee Rand
Bruce Sachs
Aaron Schubach
Leah Swanson
Statement of Financial Position
73,018,999 AS OF JUNE 30, 2024
REPORTS
Associated Programming
Report from the Parents’ Association
“BUILDING COMMUNITY” was the theme for the year for Prep’s Parent Association, as volunteers continued their efforts to encourage active involvement in supporting the school. Whether through social gatherings, community-wide book reads, fundraisers, or community service, the goal is to work together to further reinforce the dynamic spirit of Prep. We are proud to have our kids attend this school, and do all we can to support the faculty and staff that we see as our partners in educating our kids. With the help of parent reps for each grade, the Parents’ Association:
• Held 9 PA meetings on campus
• Continued their buddy system to connect throughout the year with new families
• Hosted 2 potluck dinner parties during the Middle School dances
• Invited all parents on campus for both a fall and a spring social on campus
• Organized volunteer days at Pete’s Place and Food Depot
• Led 2 community-wide book read evenings
• Raised $25,000 in the Annual Rummage Sale (!)
• Raised $20,000 to offer cash bonuses to faculty and staff
• Volunteered for school events and organized grade-level gatherings
• Hosted receptions for Baccalaureate and planned Senior Dinner
• Met for weekly Wednesday morning hikes
Building community takes a great deal of time and resources above and beyond our jobs and everything else that parenting requires – but our volunteer efforts have been worth every minute.
Elege Simons Harwood '94 & Aviva Sussman, Parents' Association Co-Chairs
2023/2024
PARENT CO-CHAIRS
Elege Simons Harwood ’94
Aviva Sussman
Grade Reps
7TH Lorelei Chappell
Jacqueline Davis
Donaji Ramirez
8TH Marisa Bodell
CA Hersom
9TH Satara Bixby
Heather French
10TH Alice Dunn
Francie Parker
Beth Succop
11TH Nadine Montoya
Julie Murray
12TH Cullen Curtiss
Aimee Putnam
“Breakthrough just makes me feel like this is where I belong. The people here, the teachers, the students, classmates, they make me feel like this is where I belong and I fit right in.”
- Middle School Student, Summer 2024
“I appreciated the time we spent learning about working with the kids and ways that we could support them socially, emotionally, and academically. I felt at the end that I understood how I could be a support to in a way that aligned with Breakthrough’s values.”
- Teaching Fellow, Summer 2024
“We're extremely happy with our daughter’s progress since she joined the program. Thank you for helping her and encouraging her to continue her development as a student but more importantly, as a focused and centered individual. This has helped her tremendously. She has developed her own critical thinking skills.”
- Middle School Parent, Summer 2024
Report from Breakthrough Santa Fe
BREAKTHROUGH SANTA FE is a six-year comprehensive college preparatory program that supports motivated students academically and socially through a range of services, from summer programs to after-school tutoring, supplemental Saturday instruction, and individualized college and financial aid counseling. Our program serves over 200 students in Santa Fe from grades 7-12 who meet at least two of five need criteria correlated with high school dropout and lower college attainment. These criteria include: residing in a single-parent household, being the first in the family to attend college, being an English language learner, being a first-generation student, and being a student of color. We have been hosted by Santa Fe Prep since 2004, and we belong to a network of 25 Breakthrough sites across the U.S.
Breakthrough students enter the program the summer after 6th grade and participate in a 6-week rigorous academic program at Santa Fe Prep. Our summer program employs exceptional high school and college students to teach classes, creating a dynamic near-peer learning environment. With only 6-8 students per class, there are many opportunities for hands-on learning. Many of our summer Teaching Fellows go on to become career teachers or educational equity advocates, due in part to their experiences with us.
This last summer, we welcomed 36 new 7th-grade students to Breakthrough and completed yet another successful six weeks of intensive learning, led by our 18 Teaching Fellows from all across the country. Our middle school students wrote research and analytical essays, completed our annual cow eyeball dissection, and strengthened their math skills. Our high school students also made college visits to the University of New Mexico, New Mexico Tech, Highlands University, and St. John’s College; seniors also began many parts of their college applications. We celebrated the end of our middle school summer with our annual camping trip to Bandelier National Monument, where most students camped and hiked for the first time. At Breakthrough, students work hard and take risks in their classes and in their communities, but most importantly, they have fun!
Dieu Ho, Director
Facts and Figures:
86% of Class of 2024 attending college
11 members of Class of 2024 received the Davis NM Scholarship
5 members of Class of 2024 received the Breakthrough Scholarship
CLASS OF 2030:
99% of our students are students of color
86% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch at school
90% of students will be the first generation in their families to attend college
75% of students speak a language other than English at home
39% of students come from a single-parent household
Breakthrough
Santa Fe Donors
$25,000+
Davis New Mexico Scholarship
Las Campanas Community Grants Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
$10,000-$24,999
Anonymous City of Santa Fe
New Cycle Foundation Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
Santa Fe Hestia Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
Santa Fe Prep Parents' Association
Richard and Rachel White
$5,000-$9,999
William and Meg Feldman
New Mexico Children's Foundation
Polly O'Brien and Barrett Toan
Harry Shapiro and Peyton Young
Steele Family Foundation
$2,500-$4,999
Anonymous (2)
Celia Lipton Farris and Victor W. Farris Foundation Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
Stephen and Meredith Machen
Cynthia Onore and Stanley Karczewski
Robert Moody Foundation
Jenna and Wilson Scanlan
Andrew Wallerstein and Mary Sloane
Peter and Marianne Westen
$1,000-$2,499
ABCD Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
Avalon Trust
Jenny Cohen Kaufman '94 and Justin Kaufman
Cudd Foundation
George Duncan and Sheryl Kelsey
Robb and Numi Hirsch
Jewish Communal Fund
Kia Ora Fund,
Santa Fe Community Foundation
Thao and Samuel Marquez
Susan Matteucci and Mike Loftin
Christine and Drew McDermott
Jane Oakes
Michael and Miriam Schechter
Shaggy Peak Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
Paul and Carolyn Shapiro
Philip and Jessica Smucker
Susan and Conrad De Jong Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
Leah and Sloan Swanson
Peter and Wendy Trevisani
Owen and Katherine Van Essen
Witter Bynner Foundation for Poetry
$5-$999
Paul Abrams and Abigail Adler
Jan and Rick Adesso
Susan Angebranndt
Michelle and Jared Barliant
Jonathan Beamer and Francine Salkin
Alicia Bertram '09
Marc Bertram '78 and Cathryn Bertram
Anthony Bonanno
Breakthrough Collaborative
Carole Brito
Edison Buchanan and Sally Corning
Larry and Marilyn Cohen
Sarah Cohen '92
Mary Lee Colin
Nancy Dahl
Mark Donatelli and Anne Pedersen
Ellie Edelstein and Margie Edwards
John and Abeer Evaldson
Lisa and Richard Fisher
MacDonnell Gordon '69 and Charlene
Shildmyer
Kurt Gutjahr
Anna and Rob Hastings
David Henkel Jr. and Cleo Griffith
Adelma Hnasko '92 and Thomas Hnasko
Leslie and Hervey Juris
Rachel Kesler
Robin Kipnis and Penn Ritter
Eileen Klotz
Carol Kurth
Elizabeth Lawrence and Andrew
Montgomery
Christine and Jonathan Lehman
Jim and Story Leonard
Nicole Lim
John and Robin Lyle
Cindy and Neil Lyon
Lee and Susan MacLeod
Rob Madril and Gail MacQuesten
McHugh-Kerr Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
Michael McNeill
Fred and J.J. Milder
Janie Miller
Moore Revocable Trust
Yuki Murata and Chris Long
Gary and Kirsten Oakley
David and Susan Pulling
Daniel Quinn '12
Rabinowe Family Fund, Santa Fe Community Foundation
Sandip Rai
Marcus Randolph
Claire and James Rhotenberry
Willy Richardson '92 and Kim Richardson
John Ritter
Martha Ritter
Sam Ritter and Katherine Keener
Mitchell Rocha
Dennis Romero
Ted Samples
Aaron Schubach and Anna Sass
Ben Shulman
Elege Simons Harwood '94 and Kyle Harwood
Paul Stockton
Kathy Wagner
Gwendolyn Wells
William and Janislee Wiese
Matt Ybarra and Linda Serrato Ybarra
Ellen Zieselman
Report from Davis New Mexico Scholarship
DAVIS NM SCHOLARSHIP EMBRACES THE COMMON APP
The Common Application is an application system used by over 1100 colleges and universities that has become ubiquitous for students applying to selective colleges around the world. This year, the organization launched a “moonshot” goal to use its platform to increase access for low and middle-income students throughout the world. Capitalizing on momentum from this new initiative, the Davis New Mexico Scholarship–a program of Santa Fe Prep–chose to host its 2024 application on the Common App, enabling first-generation college students throughout New Mexico to apply to the scholarship through the same process they use to apply for colleges and universities nationwide.
Can you [Davis NM Scholarship Director, Sam Ritter] tell us a little bit about the inspiration behind the Davis New Mexico Scholarship and its history?
The Davis New Mexico Scholarship started as a part of Breakthrough Santa Fe. The founder of the scholarship, philanthropist (and former Santa Fe Prep trustee) Andrew Davis, saw the potential of first-generation college students and wanted to support them all the way to college graduation. Together with college counselors and the students themselves, we created a program that would bring the talents of students from New Mexico—a state often at the bottom of educational statistics in our country—to colleges and universities around the country.
We started ten years ago with five intrepid scholars. I literally handed many of them a plane ticket and said, “Go to this college, you’ll do well there!” We’ve grown tremendously in reach and sophistication since then. Now, thanks to a $10 million annual commitment from the Davises, we have over 200 scholars enrolled in six partner
colleges around the country. And instead of drawing students from a single college access partner, we now have scholars coming from all parts of northern New Mexico— from the Navajo Nation in the northwest part of our state to the rural prairie communities on the Texas border to the east.
Could you expand on the current challenges New Mexico students face and how the DNMS aims to address those challenges?
In many parts of New Mexico, Common App completion is virtually nonexistent. Last year, in half of New Mexico’s counties, not a single student completed the Common Application. For students and counselors, the Common App is unknown territory, and the pieces of the application—from the essay to the idea that a high school would have a “profile”—are concepts that students and schools have no familiarity with.
So, we’re starting with the basics: Helping students and counselors know that there is an application that students can use for colleges and that these colleges actually want students from New Mexico to apply to them! In every school, there are adults who want to push students to apply to colleges around the country and students who are interested in attending college outside of New Mexico. The challenge is simply that they don’t know the path forward to get there.
Note: A version of this article first appeared on the Common App blog.
Photos: Students participate in (left) college fair at Taos Public Library in November, 2023 and ROCA program (right) July, 2024.
Report from the Booster Club
THE SANTA FE PREP BOOSTER CLUB is a separate 501 (c) (3) which raises funds exclusively for the Athletic Department. The Booster Board was started by a group of Prep parents in 1983. In addition to raising money, the Booster Board donates over 150 volunteer hours annually to the school. Whatever the reason–camaraderie or competitiveness, exercise, entertainment or the pursuit of excellence–numerous Santa Fe Prep students find value in playing on one or more of the school's many sports teams.
The Booster Board raises funds through volleyball and basketball gate entry fees, Griffin Gear sales, Booster Club memberships and sponsorships and fundraising events like the “Smells Like TEAM Spirit” Fundraiser we held last Spring! Our strong Prep Booster Family comes to cheer on our student athletes at their games, purchase Booster swag and participate as a contestant and/or volunteer their time to make our Spring fundraising event a fun time and a financial success. With your help, the Booster Club raised over $80,000 over the past year!
The value of the Booster Club to the school is indisputable. Your generosity has allowed us to make a large annual gift to the athletic department for designated purposes like purchase of uniforms, equipment and supplies. In the past, we contributed $100,000 toward the purchase of Sun Mountain Field, $9,000 toward a new bus, $6,400 toward weight room renovations and $12,000 toward gymnasium upgrades. In 2020 we contributed $20,000 toward the Adesso Archives athletic boards in the gym lobby. In 2022 we purchased a new high jump pit for the Athletic Department. In 2023 we purchased a new scoreboard for the gym.
As you watch our student athletes in action, know that the Booster Club is a vital part of the Prep sports experience, and we are incredibly grateful for your ongoing support. For more information or to become a member, visit: www.sfprep.org/ parents/booster-club.
2023 / 2024
SFP BOOSTER BOARD
Ocean Munds-Dry, President
Dustin Belyeu, Vice-President
Alexandra Ladd, Treasurer
Kristin Gasteazoro, Secretary
Rebecca Bair
Connor Browne
Karen Crow
Debra Gonzales
Cathy Griffith
Sean Healy
Tom Hnasko
Justin Kaufman
Toner Mitchell
Anna Sass
Chris Stanek
Lee Rand
Booster Memberships
Many heartfelt thanks to the following fans in the stands, who purchased memberships or sponsored us for the 2023-2024 school year as well as our lifetime members, whose commitment is unparalleled.
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS
Kim and Willy Richardson '92
Jesse Roach '90
Carla Montoya-Rivera
FAMILY MEMBERS
Houston Dougherty
Amy and Evan Land
Sharman Leventon and Matt Nerzig
Raymond and Adrianna Reyes Newell
Janine Pearson
Aimee and Sean Putnam
James and Carla Rivera
Judy Sanchez
Thomas Scott
Aviva Sussman
BLUE MEMBERS
Dustin and Brooke Belyeu
Elizabeth and Jim Brockmann
Sally Harvey
Martha Arnett and Cory Hirsch
Alexandra Ladd and Chris Graeser
Anna Sass and Aaron Schubach
Kristin and Douglas Thal
EL PATRON MEMBERS
Kristina Alley and Tim Farrell
Brian and Kelly Egolf
Adi-Risa and Estevan Gonzales
Tim and Keri Goorley
SILVER SPONSORS
Enterprise Bank
Hinkle Shanor LLP
RCT
Melanie Sandoval
We Do Windows
GOLD SPONSORS
Oral Surgery and Dental Implants of Santa Fe
LIFETIME MEMBERS
Mark and Martha Alexander
Cameron and Eric Anderson
Christian and Maggie Andersson
Sara and Dan April
Brant and Rebecca Bair
Cathryn and Marc Bertram '78
Boys and Girls Club
Leigh Anne and David Brown
Connor Browne and Christina Price
Karen Crow and Liz Bremner
Ocean Munds-Dry and Randy Dry
Kate Ferlic and Chris Stanek
Kurt Gilbert and Elicia Montoya
Liz and Michael Grover
Marisa Bodell Gubelmann '98 and Wyeth Gubelmann
Sean and Rebecca Healey
Jenny Cohen Kaufman '94 and Justin Kaufman
Jeannette Kelly
Henry and Tina Lanman
Marcia and Tim Lenihan
Neil and Cindy Lyon
Lee and Susan Macloud
Samuel and Thao Marquez
Fred and Arlyn Nathan
Patrick and Stacy Quinn
Wilson and Jenna Scanlan
Jules and Devon Stokov de Jong
Mark and Jamie Stone
George Strickland and Anita Osgard
Peter and Wendy Trevisani
Owen and Kathy Van Essen
Cindi Vernold and Mark Hopkins
Mary Vickers
Michael and Debbie Whiting
Sasha Wilcoxon
Peter and Carol Wirth
Douglas and Katherine Zang
$23,422,676
Endowment Total (AS OF JUNE 30, 2024)
$35,994 33% $18,256 average tuition assistance grant awarded
6 faculty are Prep alumni
1344
SAT average for Santa Fe Prep students of students receive tuition assistance grades 7-12
560 Santa Fe Public School students served by Breakthrough Santa Fe since 2004
average financial aid award per student per year for class of 2024 in college
33 acres of campus
90% of Breakthrough atudents enroll in college each year
349 students enrolled for 2024-2025 THE SECONDHIGHEST EVER ENROLLMENT!
1:8 faculty to student ratio $107K
6 LANL scholars in class of 2024
77% of faculty and staff hold advanced degrees endowment dollars per student
10 Cum Laude Society Members in the class of 2024
$68,890 $562,950 in new gifts to the endowment
77% early decision applications accepted for the class of 2024
39 full time faculty dollars above annual fund raised toward tuition assistance
50 first-generation New Mexican students received FULL college scholarships from the Davis New Mexico scholarship program housed at Prep
$2,099,402 tuition assistance dollars granted for the 2024-2025 school year THE HIGHEST IN THE SCHOOL’S HISTORY!
71% overall acceptance rate for college applications
Alumni Class News
1960’s
Ramona Sakiestewa '66 is the last living member of the Santa Fe Prep Class of 1966. She is well and still living in Santa Fe, and continues to design architectural features for architects around the country. Ramona also makes art and shows her print works at Tai Modern Gallery in Santa Fe.
In his senior yearbook, Jay Dillon '68 said he wanted to be a philosopherartist. For Jay, that meant seeing the big picture globally while acting creatively. He volunteers at the Teen Center and sees introducing others to conversation starters with friends, strangers, and family members in alignment with his own teen goals. Learn more about Jay on his YouTube channel, youtube.com/@ moveyouremotions-fl6bu
Lou Ellis Brassington '69 teaches middle school history at an independent school in Albuquerque as well as a 400-level literature course at UNM. She loves teaching 13-year-old Gen Alphas and 23-year-old Gen Zs! Lou is also defending her PhD dissertation this fall; better late than never, right? Lou’s family includes Doug, Kate, Nigel, and schnauzers Sadie and Luna.
1970’s
Susan Hartley '73 is the proud mother of two sons, one of whom is a doctor in residency at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Her younger son is a dancer and soloist with the New York City Ballet. In May 2020, Susan received a Master of Science in Dance/Movement Therapy with Distinction from Pratt Institute. She is currently practicing in New York City and the Hudson Valley.
Many miles and years since Prep, Andrew Chritton '78 still frequently misses Santa Fe. Andrew remarried in 2020 to Marguerite Miller (Dao), a college classmate from Buffalo, NY, which is a new and fantastic adventure! They split their time between Buffalo and a place near Seeley Lake, MT, where Margie is partnering with a cousin to breed Valais Blacknose sheep. Andrew retired from the State Department in 2021 after 36 years of great assignments and increasingly tedious moves and travel. Following his retirement, he and his youngest son spent four fun and challenging months sailing up the east coast to Maine from the Chesapeake Bay. Most of Andrew’s time is currently spent in Montana, and if any classmates happen to be in the area he would love to see them. He and Margie have room, kayaks, and camping equipment!
In August, W. Houston Dougharty '79 and members of his class planned a 45th reunion weekend in Santa Fe, which included an hors d’oeuvres reception at the Meem and numerous events around town. Ten members of the class of 1979 were in attendance, along with a dozen friends from other classes. Pictured are Paul Cook ‘79, Margaret Cooper Field ‘79, Meg Bernick Stephenson ‘79, Ken Rusanowski ‘79, W. Houston Dougharty ‘79, Matt Harland ‘79, Barbara White Gorham ‘79, Sara Harland ‘79, Addison Doty ‘79, and Rachel Kelly ‘79.
1980’s
Hunter Tidmore Redman '83 has worked at Architectural Alliance for 23 years and became the Principal Architect and owner in January 2024! Lorraine Ziegler '12 has been working with Architectural Alliance on and off for the past 11 years, and started working full-time for the firm this past April. Hunter and Lorraine have had the opportunity to work on many creative and challenging projects together, and are excited for more!
Seth Cohen '89 is a collaboration and conflict resolution specialist working with diverse groups as a facilitator, mediator, and trainer.
In 2021, Seth joined the National Center for Environmental Conflict Resolution, a program of the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation. Seth works to bring different individuals and groups together to address complex multiparty natural resources challenges, including water resources management, landuse development, and controversial infrastructure projects. Recently he has worked on drought in the Colorado River Basin and issues impacting the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota. He has worked extensively with Native Nations and has served as a facilitator in Governmentto-Government Consultation meetings between Tribes and Federal agencies. Seth received his doctorate in Conflict Analysis & Resolution from George Mason University in 2013, his master’s degree in Intercultural Communication from the University of New Mexico in 2002, and his bachelor’s degree from Colorado College in 1993. Seth currently lives in Frisco, Colorado, but frequents Santa Fe where he spends time with family and many friends from the SFP community. Outside of work, Seth is an avid skier and enjoys hiking and mountain biking, feasting on NM chile, watching basketball, and still primarily listens to reggae music, an influence from spending summers in Jamaica during his years at Prep. Read more about Seth’s work at Udall.gov
1990’s
Jenny Cohen Kaufman '94 is thrilled for her law practice to have landed at The Simons Firm, where she is now practicing with three other Prep alums, Quinn Simons ‘92, Elege Simons Harwood ‘94, and Frieda Simons ‘00. The office environment is full of laughter, sarcasm, kindness, and heartfelt appreciation for one another. Jenny says it is truly a dream job to be working with her SFP peers, who in addition to being incredible lawyers, are the warmest and most loving work family a person could ever hope for.
Earlier this year, Jenny co-hosted a well-attended and joyous reunion weekend for the class of 1994, coinciding with the school's All-Alumni Weekend, May 31-June 1. The class met for drinks and appetizers at the La Posada bar on Friday, May 31, followed by a dinner party at Jenny’s home on Saturday, June 1. Many members of the Class of 1994 were also able to participate in the alumni activities at Prep on Saturday, including a "State of School" welcome from Aaron Schubach and attending classes taught by current faculty. More than half of the class of 1994 was in attendance over some portion of the weekend, including Jenny, Nicole Ault, Ryan Bailey, Ashley Brott Trujillo, Chris Chakeres, Sunny Chirieleison, Elege Simons Harwood, Hannah Hausman, Natalie Mead Meek, Mara Milicevic, Erica Peters, Cailin Pitcher, Richard Sanders, Veree Parker Simons, Peter Spier, Justine Tinkler, Tessa Tinkler, Mike Walta, Sarah Tiberi Webber, Ben West, Josh West, Maya
Williams, and Amara Zee. Many faculty and staff members from years past joined the festivities, including Jan Adesso, Dave DePolo, Anita Ginocchio, Pat Greathouse, Gene Harrell, Lorry Hausman, Jean “Parka” Kithil, Steve Machen, Rennae Ross, Jay Shelton, and Marie White, along with current Head of School Aaron Schubach and Director of Advancement Michael McNeill.
Hannah Hausman '94 is thrilled to announce that she is celebrating her 4th year as Executive Director of the Santa Fe Children's Museum. The beloved local gem of a Children's Museum is thriving and expanding, thanks to the hard-working staff and board, and with the support of the Santa Fe community.
This summer, the Museum proudly unveiled a newly-renovated acre+ of outdoor playscape in the Museum’s backyard. The master plan for this project was expertly crafted by the National Wildlife Federation ECHO (Early Childhood Health Outdoors) in collaboration with the talented local landscape architect Surroundings Studio, Prep alum Abby Feldman ‘95, and SDV Construction. And thanks to the incredible support of the Museum’s dedicated board, committee, and the State of New Mexico, they were able to raise over $1 million to promote outdoor equity and provide enriching play experiences for Santa Fe children and families. The future is bright for the Santa Fe Children's Museum, and Hannah is honored to be a part of this exciting journey!
Class News
Ben White '99 lives in the Netherlands with his wife Irene and two sons, Laurens (13) and Oscar (11). They keep busy with their local, 100+ year-old football club, Martinus, and fun weekend trips to visit Morgan Wurzburger ‘99 in Paris. Since 2003, Ben has been working to improve startup ecosystems in Africa and other emerging markets around the world. VC4A—an entrepreneur support organization he founded—now has more than 28,000 startups connected to their programs; Ben is happy to report there is an overwhelming amount of disruptive innovation coming from all corners of the globe as young entrepreneurs chart a new course for the future. Ben and his family spent the summer on a road trip across nine countries and hut-to-hut hiking in Albania. Anyone coming through Amsterdam is most welcome for a visit!
2000’s
Filmmaker Rachel Noll James '04 recently wrote, directed, and starred in the sci-fi film Ingress, which is now streaming on Amazon, Vudu, and Vimeo on Demand! Critics have called the film "a masterclass in emotional resonance and tenderness" and "indie filmmaking at its most poignant and profound." Don't miss this captivating journey through the multiverse. You can watch the trailer on YouTube, www. youtube.com/watch?v=FjyMgQwoYak.
Michael Meade '06 has been living his best life in Santa Fe, working with Positive Energy Solar, continuing to grow his Eco Hip-Hop Edutainment program All Aboard Earth, playing and adventuring with his family, and staying healthy and happy! He is pictured with the Positive Energy Solar team receiving the Chamber of Commerce Best Business in 2024 Award!
Zoe Kiklis '08 and her husband welcomed their baby boy, Claude, in November 2023. They live in Portland, Maine where Zoe works as a general dentist.
Joel Van Essen '09 lives in Austin, Texas with his girlfriend, Sophie Mata. He’s currently working as the Director of Private Investments at Santa Fe-based firm City Different Investments, leading their Small Business Acquisition strategy.
2010’s
Madeleine (Blake) Prado '10 moved back to Santa Fe with her husband Javier and son Sydney Azul in 2023. With a BA in Art History and Masters in Library & Information Science, she works as a private archivist and collections consultant.
Brian Lewis '11 and Caroline Stanley '13 connected in the summer of 2018 at a concert in the Santa Fe Railyard, and tied the knot on their fifth anniversary in June of 2023. Earlier this year, they celebrated their honeymoon in Patagonia. Brian and Caroline live in Santa Fe with their two dogs, Sage and Basil.
Rachel Sidebottom '16 is in her 3rd year of UNM’s School of Medicine MD/ PhD program. She just finished the first two years of her MD and is now pursuing a PhD in biomedical sciences, specifically in microbial genomics in Dr. Daryl Domman's laboratory. Rachel attended Occidental College after Santa Fe Prep and majored in biology with a concentration in cellular and molecular biology. She is interested in pediatric surgery and is finding ways to combine her love of the natural world with tangible ways to eventually improve patient outcomes.
2020’s
Since graduating from Prep, Mateo Perez '20 completed undergrad at Dartmouth College with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology modified with Psychology.
Following his initial exposure to Prep's Makerspace, fencing team, and elective ceramics classes, Mateo was inspired to continue all three activities in college, serving as treasurer of the robotics team, joining the club fencing team as an épée fencer, and continuing to study ceramics. He spent two summers in the Native American Research Internship (NARI) in Salt Lake City, Utah, gaining research skills and attending the SACNAS conference to present his research. Mateo has since taken a gap year to pursue his passion for medicine in the Wy'East postbac program in Portland, Oregon for acceptance to OHSU Medical School. He is interested in psychiatry as a specialty, and hopes to return home to Santa Fe to address the mental health needs of his Pueblo communities— Picuris Pueblo, Santa Clara Pueblo, and Cochiti Pueblo. Mateo is deeply grateful to his Prep teachers (shoutout to Ms. K, Spinney, Ms. Chakeres, and many others), Breakthrough family (Talia Winokur, Sam Ritter, and more), former heads of school and advisors (Suzie Matthews and Jim Leonard), and his friends who made Prep so memorable!
Former Faculty
In July, Andras Fehervary '82 celebrated the life of his mother, Deborah Cornelius, who passed away in September of 2023. Deborah joined the faculty of Prep in 1970, teaching Upper School history until 1984. She developed the school’s Model UN program and was appointed Director of Studies in 1983. Andras was joined at the memorial service by many members of the Prep community, including Houston Dougharty '79, Pete White '82, Laura LewAllen '82, Emily Talley '82, Anne Alley '82, and Marie White.
Alan Taylor—a member of Prep’s English department from 1997 to 2017— recently co-wrote the book Bridge of Stones with his brother, Charlie Fasanaro. Published by Austin Macauley Publishers earlier this year, the book is subtitled “a spiritual journey via soldiers, hippies, dogs, and landmines.” Read more and order a copy on the publisher’s website, www. austinmacauley.com/us/book/bridge-stones.
In June of 2024, Santa Fe Prep said goodbye to Walter, whose job it was to welcome students at dropoff each morning. A regular at school, board, fundraising, and alumni meetings—and best friend to everyone—Walter will be missed by students and parents alike!
"Switch"
Reflections of a retired teacher-coach on the importance of learning from our students and athletes
FROM 1981 TO 1997, ALFREDO “AL” CELEDÓN
LUJÁN was a basketball and volleyball coach at Prep, leading five boys basketball teams and three volleyball teams to district championships during his tenure. When he took over coaching responsibilities of the volleyball team in 1989, Al knew little about the sport. His mentor in his first season was the team’s 14-year-old captain, Sasha Wilcoxon ‘93. Although she graduated from Prep prior to those championship seasons, Al credits Sasha for being the catalyst of the program’s success.
In the late 80s, during the fall sports season, I’d often sit in the bleachers watching a volleyball match before coaching basketball practice. Ray Griffin was the volleyball coach at the time, and one of his teams had won a district championship. I enjoyed watching those games, witnessing talented athletes win and lose close matches. But I occasionally detected a chink in Prep’s armor. When mistakes were made on our side, team members often glared at each other or mumbled unheard, but clearly unpleasant, things accompanied by negative body lingo.
One afternoon, Athletic Director Chuck Chirieleison called my name as I walked past his office. “Hey, Al, Ray is resigning from coaching volleyball,” he said. "Let me know of anyone who you think might be interested in the job, starting next fall.” I attended a few more matches and began to consider the height and agility of the athletes on the team—traits that can’t be taught. The back-biting on the team also became more evident. Hmm, I thought, I can fix that. And given the talent on the team, I decided I’d like the challenge. I told Chuck I was interested. I told him I didn’t know a lot about volleyball, but I could fix the internal conflicts and develop a team concept. I was hired.
Before taking the court, I sought Parka Kithil’s advice on coaching girls. In the coming years, I would discover she was spot on. No surprise!
The first day of practice was in the summer. We began with a goals and expectations team meeting, then got to work. As I told Chuck, I would study volleyball and apply what I knew, and I would be willing to go to camps and clinics. Enter Sasha Wilcoxon, a 9th grade starter on the varsity team. After a couple of pre-season workouts and scrimmages, 14-year-old Sasha called me—the kinda gruff coach—into the coach’s office. She had joined the team late that summer after moving to Santa Fe from California. She was calm when she made the request, no sense of urgency. But her tone was serious, like she wanted to tell me something important. The impact of that conversation has stayed with me for 35 years.
We had scrimmaged against Santa Fe Indian School the night before. In the office, Sasha told me she’d like to talk about the rotations we’d been using in practices and scrimmages. The rotation I had been using was what I knew,
the basic “picnic” rotation you play in P.E.: everyone plays every position and rotates clockwise at every serve. Sasha had attended volleyball camps and played club ball in Santa Barbara and Malibu before coming to Prep. She may have only been a freshman in high school, but she had credentials and a skill set. I knew it would be smart for me to listen.
In the office that afternoon, Sasha taught me about switches. She drew diagrams on the white board to show me how switches work. She taught me to place players at their strength positions and have them switch at the sound of our serve or after the first return—tall players at the front line and in the middle where they could block; hitters on the outside from where they could bump, approach, hit, and block. Sure-handed setters came in from the back row and positioned themselves behind the middle and between the hitters. The defensive specialists situated themselves in the back row. Everybody on the court needed to learn to pass accurately to the setter’s spot, not to the setter; it was the setter’s responsibility to get under the ball. Sasha taught me how to align the defense to cover the diagonals—right played right and left played left, always. Everyone had to cover on the hit and block. She demonstrated the proper receiver/passer position, teaching me how to coach the lift and angle the pass.
Over the course of that first season, we made adjustments. I learned the 6-2 system; learned how to substitute the front row and back row on rotations; learned about disguised hits and fakes; learned the importance of every player covering, always alert and anticipating. I learned a lot, and still had much to learn. After that first meeting in the coach’s office, I integrated the Sasha clinic with my own coaching philosophy and I never attended another clinic.
In 1995, Alfredo and his volleyball team won their first of three consecutive District Championships, also winning backto-back Regional Championships in 1996 and 1997, his final year of coaching at Prep.
SANTA FE PREPARATORY SCHOOL MAGAZINE
Upcoming Alumni Events
Santa Fe Prep alumni of all class years are invited to join us on campus for the following celebratory occasions. Check your inbox for formal invitations and additional information. Gather your classmates and make plans to reconnect at your alma mater! Questions may be directed to jtomlinson@sfprep.org. Want to organize your own class reunion? Please let us know so we can help you!
DECEMBER 20, 2024: Alumni Holiday Party
Meet, mingle, and enjoy festive refreshments with fellow alums in the Prep Library.
MAY 31, 2025: Alumni Weekend
Join us for the fourth-annual Alumni Weekend, featuring campus tours, mini classes, reunion celebrations, and other special events. If you would like to plan a class-specific reunion during this weekend, please reach out to Elege Simons Harwood ‘94, Alumni Board President, at elege@me.com.
