2022 - 2023 Report of Giving

Saying Thanks | P.32 Feeling Friendzy | P. 34

2022 - 2023 REPORT OF GIVING

COOKING UP SOMETHING SPECIAL PRAIRIE CONTINUES GROWING CLOSER THANKS TO COMMUNITY BUILDERS LIKE MULTICULTURAL FAIR [P.20]

FALL 2023

Contents —

03 from the head of school 04 leadership 05 from the board chair 18 the fast track 20 this place rocks 32 saying thanks 34 feeling friendzy 43 the last word

DONOR RECOGNITION 06 donor honor roll 11 endowment 12 the prairie fund 17 faculty 23 the jack mitchell society 25 alumni 26 parents 28 grandparents 30 golf classic & dinner 38 2022-2023 financials 39 prairie premiere

CONTRIBUTORS Editor: Brendan J. O’Brien Designer: Austin Gundlach Photographers: Austin Gundlach, Meghan Benson Authors: Callie Atanasoff, Nat Coffman, Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74, Brendan O’Brien

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Is There Anything Better Than a Carnival?

Carnivals are indeed pretty awesome, especially when they revolve around science. In May, the Science Museum of Minnesota visited campus to put on a unique Carnival of Engineering, featuring different games and demonstrations. Students were able to build a frog flinger, take on the cantilever challenge, and experiment with a crane game.

Opportunities like the Carnival of Engineering are made possible by the Prairie Fund.

From the Head of School —

Dear Prairie Community, There is so much to be thankful for at Prairie. Our faculty and families are committed to creating an environment where every student can make the most of their potential both individually and as members of classrooms, ensembles, clubs, and teams.

Our shared commitment to pursuing excellence – creating both meaningful individual journeys as well as remarkable shared experiences – is something for which I am truly grateful. I admire the way we find

common ground and build a close-knit, diverse community where we celebrate our common humanity and learn from our differences. To quote this year’s Convocation speaker, Sandra Rogers ’82, “We are the same — but different.”

Over the last few years we have partnered with our peer schools nationally to study what makes us, us, and we have found that Prairie is unique in many ways.

“I admire the way we find common ground and build a close-knit, diverse community where we celebrate our common humanity and learn from our differences.”

We are committed to offering a well-rounded, renaissance education rooted in experience-based learning and collaboration. Every student is a scholar, artist, athlete, and leader, yet our advanced academic excellence is impossible to ignore. Our AP and Malone School Online Network (MSON) courses are taken by almost every Upper School student with a five year AP pass rate of 85%.

Our financial model is also unusual. Our comparatively low tuition, along with the breadth and depth of our need-based scholarship program, is an outlier made possible by the incredible generosity of our past and present donors – people like you. Last year tuition revenue covered 61% of our operating expenses.

We are arguably the most economically diverse top-tier independent day school in the country. How fortunate are we to have the kind of broad-based financial support to make this possible?

I am grateful that, together, we continue Gene Johnson’s vision of bringing a world class education to Racine County. With no families to the east and the interstate twenty-five minutes away, our location is unique. Nonetheless, this was a banner year for admissions, with enrollment for 2023-24 up by more than thirty students. That interest, generated in large part by word of mouth from happy families, has continued.

Already we are projecting wait pools for most grades in 2024-25.

All of this is possible because of you. Every gift, regardless of size, impacts our ability to accomplish great things as we continue to grow. While the majority of our students come from Racine, Kenosha, Oak Creek, and Franklin, every year families relocate to Racine County to become a part of Prairie. Because of your belief in our mission, Prairie is an escalator for the local community, with our students and families working together to build a better Racine.

I am grateful to be a part of a place where so many people are committed to accomplishing what is best for their children and our community. When we come together this way, there’s no limit to what we can do. Everyone listed in this report has helped make Prairie, Prairie. We would not be here without your generosity. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Nathaniel W. Coffman, Ed.D. Head of School & President

Leadership —

2023-24 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Darryl Babu ’88 John Batten ’83 – Vice-Chair Nathaniel W. Coffman, Ed.D. – Head of School & President Joe Fallico Amy Giles-Maurer Dave Johnson Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74 – Chair Steven Joost – Assistant Secretary/Assistant Treasurer Lyndsay Knoell, D.D.S. Shakila Manogaran Shimp ’86 Gregory Mueller Jill Osiecki Pat Penman Richard Ruffo ’83 – Secretary Christopher Ruud ’89 Austin Schultz ’04 Christine Shields Kann Joe Veranth ’80 – Treasurer Lisa Wolf, M.D.

2023-24 ADVISORS TO THE BOARD Michael Borzynski ’99 Andrea Bukacek ’03 David Clark Alyson Horton Skye Johnson Khalaf Khalaf Tom King ’78 Jim Ladwig Brian Langendorf Connor Leipold ’10 Missy Peterson Robin Polzin Roberta Puntillo-Jorgensen Tom Schaefer

2023-24 SCHOOL LEADERSHIP Nathaniel W. Coffman, Ed.D. Head of School & President Kathryn Boero Associate Head of School & Middle School Head Compass Team Director Mari Grobschmidt Upper School Head Susan Holum Primary School Head Steven Joost Assistant Head of School for Finance – CFO/COO Lisa Koleske, SHRM-CP Director of Human Resources Aliya Pitts Chief Advancement Officer

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From the Board Chair —

Dear Friends: Think about what makes your home special. Maybe it’s the way your kitchen comes alive during dinner, or a comfy chair in your favorite place to work or read.

Certainly, it’s family – the people you share the space with and the memories you have made with them.

“Home” is where we are most comfortable, our most authentic, and often, our happiest.

It gives me great joy that Prairie is considered “home” by so many of you.

“Prairie is a nurturing space, a creative place, and a catalyst for growth and development.

This is why magic happens here.”

From the very beginning, it was important to my mother that Prairie was a place where children felt comfortable and encouraged to care about each other. From initiatives like the new Friendzy curriculum (see page 34), to the Buddy Program, to the way we celebrate different cultures and heritages, I am inspired by the continued development of new and innovative programs.

Prairie is a nurturing space, a creative place, and a catalyst for growth and development. This is why magic happens here.

This unique commitment makes Prairie so special. Countless individuals invest in our school – parents, volunteers, faculty, alumni – to create a warm, nurturing environment where children can thrive.

It takes a lot of hard work – and a lot of heart work – to nurture a community, and I am deeply appreciative of you for helping Prairie continue to flourish.

Prairie will always be a place of connection, of identifying the commonalities we share with each other, and cherishing the opportunities we have to make the world a better place.

Thank you for being an integral part of our Prairie community.

Sincerely,

Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74 Chair, The Prairie School Board of Trustees

Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of the following lists. We regret any oversights or errors that may have occurred.

Donor Honor Roll

The Prairie School is deeply grateful to all of our supporters. Below is a list of donors at their cumulative giving levels across all programs and funds for the 2022-2023 school year.

— LEADERSHIP CIRCLE ($50,000 +)

Patricia Penman

John ’83 and Jane Batten

Racine Community Foundation - Richard M. and

David C. Hoogendoorn Charitable Giving

Nick and Jen Ruetz

Mr. and Mrs. Mark M. Chulew ’72 Edward and Barbara E. Chulew Private Foundation

Josephine C. Carpenter Scholarship Fund

Al and Patty Ruud

SC Johnson Giving, Inc.

The Estate of Imogene Powers Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Joe Fallico

H. Fisk Johnson, Ph.D. ’75

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE ($5,000 +)

Joseph Kann and Christine Shields Kann

Anonymous (3)

Malone Family Foundation

Dr. Manoj Babu and Dr. Sheryn Abraham

Craig Leipold and Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74 The Osiecki Family

Ruud Family Foundation

Chris Ruud ’89 and Chantil Ruud Twin Disc, Inc.

1965 CIRCLE ($25,000 +)

Mr. and Mrs. Matt L. Andis

Boston Consulting Group, Inc.

Bukacek Construction Group, Inc. Bill and Kim Butler

Mr. Rocco Castellano and Dr. Irina Ciubotaru Mr. Patrick Christensen Richard Coates ’72

Mark and Linda Eckhardt

Mrs. Dorothy MacVicar

Dr. Nichole Elcano

Richard Ruffo ’83 and Diane Ruffo

First American Bank

Specialty Underwriters LLC

Pam Johnson ’73

The Ruffo Family Foundation, Inc.

Rick and Jana Fiegel

SC Johnson

Richard C. Gorton ’78

Mr. and Mrs. J. Joseph Veranth ’80

Mrs. Winifred Johnson-Marquart ’77 and Mr. Michael Marquart

Kane Communications Group

VISIONARY CIRCLE ($10,000 +) Laura and Rob Bishop

Michael ’99 and Shay ’00 Borzynski

Andrea Bukacek ’03 and Alan Clark Dick Carpenter

CNH Industrial

Coffman Family Scholarship Fund Julie and Jim Coffman

Robert and Marilyn Fransway Jason and Karen Greenwood Johnson Family Foundation Johnson Financial Group Johnson Outdoors, Inc. Skye Johnson

Connor ’10 and Veronica Leipold Curtie Leipold ’11 Fordy Leipold ’15

Steve Maurer and Amy Giles-Maurer

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H. William Keland ’73 and Debbie Keland Brian Ketterer

Nathan Leonardelli

Lighthouse Wealth Partners Marlo, Incorporated

Greg and Sheryl Mueller

Patrick and Betsie O’Brien Lisa and Jim Popp

Dr. Rafi and Mrs. June Rafiullah

Renaissance Charitable Foundation - Kurt

Jorgensen and Roberta Puntillo Charitable Fund

Rocco Castellano Design Studio Sandra R. Rogers ’82 RSM US LLP

Brian Selmo ’96 and

Suzanne Gasiorkiewicz Selmo ’98

Mr. Douglas Shimp and

Mrs. Shakila Manogaran Shimp ’86

State Farm Companies Foundation

State Farm Insurance - Brian Ketterer

Dr. Michael Stohler ’92 and Mrs. Rachel Stohler Tabak Law, LLC

David Woodhams and Rachelle Yecke Tony and Ann Yeung

LIGHTHOUSE CIRCLE ($2,000 +) Anonymous (6)

Mr. and Mrs. Gus Antonneau Associated Bank

The Binder Family

Michael and Kathryn Boero and Family John and Constance Boticki Mr. and Mrs. Corey Brandt The Chadwick Family

David and Shawn Clark

Nat and Laura Coffman

Kevin and Noel Cookman CRB Insurance Agency

Dana Investment Advisors, Inc.

Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home Dr. Barbara Little Earnest ’74 and Mr. Royce Earnest

Educators Credit Union

Dr. Therese Fellner and Paul Fiegel Fiduciary Management, Inc. Foley & Lardner LLP

Forefront Dermatology Go Mortgage

Puntillo Camilli & Hughes, S.C. Mr. Bennett Harris ’10

Mr. and Mrs. David Hecker Bob and Sally Henzl

Ethan and Elizabeth Hoff Stephen and Jane Hogan

Matt and Alyson Horton Dave and Chris Johnson

Mr. S. Curtis Johnson ’73 Charles Jorgensen

Rick and Heather KingenSmith Knoell Family Dentistry

Dr. Lyndsay N. Knoell and Dr. Wendy M. Knoell Dennis and Sandy Kontra Brian Langendorf

Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Lawler

Andrew and Ali Wassweiler

Steve and Cindy Joost

Majic Productions

Paul and Paula Wokwicz

Mr. Khalaf M. Khalaf and

James and Jessica Lynott Sean and Brandi Mars

WisNova Innovative Dental Specialists

Shannon Massman ’01 and Ryan Massman Patrick McGuire and

Megan Rowland McGuire ’02

Michael Best & Friedrich, LLP Dottie Moll

Norco Manufacturing

Northwestern Mutual Life Foundation O & H Danish Bakery

Mr. and Mrs. Dan Oakes

Mr. and Mrs. Eric A. Olesen

Dr. Kimberly Rybicki Olesen ’05 and Mr. Peter Olesen ’05

William and Catherine Perez PNC Financial Services, Inc.

Racine Community Foundation Eric and Lisa Olesen Fund

Mr. and Mrs. Mauro Ramos Timothy Ray

Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, S.C. John S. Rowland II ’75 Dr. Ray Rybicki

Russ Darrow Group

Tom and Wendy Schaefer

Austin Schultz ’04 and Sean Radford Senior Helpers of Racine The Smith Family

Robert and Sylvia Stohler The Sullivan Family

TG3 Electronics, Inc.

Dr. Jim and Mrs. Debbie Tierney Dr. and Mrs. Vahag Vartanian Mr. Armen A. Vidian ’88

Mr. Jeffrey Wolf and Dr. Lisa Wolf Greg and Elizabeth Yagel

Zimmerman Architectural Studio

HEADMASTER’S CIRCLE ($1,000 +)

Josephine P. and John J. Louis Foundation Mrs. Hadjer K. Abdulnabi

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas King ’78 Peter and Lisa Koleske

Jim and Debbie Ladwig

The Law Office of Terry Chapko

Mr. and Mrs. Raymond C. Leffler

Anonymous (6)

Lincoln Churchill Advisors

Mr. Matthew Adamczyk ’10 and

Robert and Cheryl MacDonald

Mr. and Mrs. Akil I. Ajmeri

Kelly Mayer

7 Mile Fair, Inc.

Mrs. Abby Gaertig Adamczyk ’10

Mick and Missy Lucareli

Ken Marek and Jackie Hung

Alpine Plywood Corp.

Brian McDonough and

The Breit Family

Charles McKain

Butcher & Barrel Gastropub

Norman and Lynne Monson

Meg Rowland Daniels ’82 and John Daniels

Jim Mueller and Christine Henke Mueller

Michael and Ann Flegel

Ivan and Jennie Payes

Van and Janet Gegas

Mr. Tristan Pearson ’99 and Dr. Amy Pearson

Nils-Holger and Jessica Gutjahr

Mr. Andrew Pettibone ’10

Scott Harlan and Maureen Kennedy-Harlan

Roberta Puntillo-Jorgensen and Kurt Jorgensen

Akemi and Darryl Babu ’88

Georgia Bruch McDonough ’78

Jim and Abby Brzezinski

Mr. and Mrs. David J. McPhee

Tony Chen and Crystal Chiu

Pedro Pablo Morcillo and Diana Diaz

Carolyn Gittings Edwards ’75

Mr. and Mrs. Mark P. Pacchini

Paul and Heidi Gaylord

Seth and Andrea Pearson

Mike and Jessica Greb

Chris and Kara Peery

Ben and Jamie Hamilton

Nick and Aliya Pitts

Mr. and Mrs. Collin Hirsch

Racine Community Foundation -

The Huynh Family

Jeanne L. Rayne

Pete and Paula Jedlicka

Dr. Adrian Rivas and Dr. Jennifer Zeni

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Joost ’03

Robertson Ryan and Associates

David and Clair Holland

William and Jeanne Rayne Family Fund

Peter and Karen Jansson

Retail Fixture, LLC

Molly Lofquist Johnson and Steve Johnson

Robert W. Baird & Co.

Why i support prairie ​​ Philanthropy has the power to provide countless benefits to this community. By giving to the Prairie Fund, donors support and celebrate everything that makes this community special – the making of lasting friendships, seeing students challenge themselves, witnessing them discover their individual strengths and potential, watching as students find themselves through performance art, or by learning a new sport. All these offerings enrich the Prairie experience and the reason we are a part of it.

We are continually and positively building a community that benefits everyone – students, parents, alumni, and administrators – and a strong community is the breeding ground for leaders and innovators.

BETSY MCPHEE

Parent of Maeve Harbour ’27 and Cameron ’22, and Kate ’20 McPhee Co-Chair, Parent Prairie Fund

Thomas J. Rodgers II ’99 and Family

The Holum Family

Holly Wolf-Mattick

Braden and Cristin Rudolph

Andrew ’95 and Holly Isaacson

Mrs. Jimin Youn and Mr. Sean Youn

Melissa and Daniel Ropiak The Saenim Family

Mr. and Mrs. John Salazar

Jennifer Pichelman Sinnen ’04 and Dan Sinnen Dennis Shaw and

Elizabeth Pehlivanian Shaw ’86

Mr. and Mrs. David Horvath

Benjamin ’96 and Jenelle Isaacson Josh Johnson

The Kane Family

Mr. George Karegeannes and

Mrs. Amy Karegeannes ’94

Southport Engineered Systems

The Kelly Family

Andrew and Jennifer Twist

Gary and Mary Sue Langendorf

Specialty Finishing Inc.

Vrakas CPAs and Advisors Pat ’87 and Patty Wagner

Mr. and Mrs. Steven Waite

Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Weaver Ben and Katie White

Wintrust Private Client Wokwicz Family Fund

Fred Young and Sandra Harrisson Young ’70

PRAIRIE CIRCLE ($500 +)

Ashley and Laura LaBarber Amy S. Larsen ’73

Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Leinweber John and Jodi Lopez

Luciano Mazon and Michelle Maiochi Mazon Blaine and Mary Metzger Microsoft Corporation

Guy and Mona Milinski

Dr. Tawfiq Nadi and Mrs. Hoda Matariyeh-Nadi Thierno Ndao and Ney Ndosi Brett and Lindsie Nelson

Mike Ohmstead and Kara Ohmstead ’03

Anonymous (19)

Kevin and Heather Orth

AmazonSmile

Jeff and Missy Peterson

Dr. and Mrs. Michael E. Angeline

Mimi and Larry Platt

Graham and Jennifer Ault

Quarles & Brady LLP

Patricia Badger

Sudip and Amrita Ringwala

Michael Banco and Hope Heaster

Abigail A. Rogers ’12 and Max Rogers

Mr. and Mrs. Randy Borglin

Mr. and Mrs. David H. Saaski

Carlson Racine Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc.

Matthew and Allyson Schrader

Caterpillar

The Shepard Family

Wade De Armond ’92

Mr. Tony Stevens and Mrs. Jean Stevens

Lois Alexander

Optum

Jeramie and Shahla Anders

Matthew and Monte Peterson

Sever and Andreea Anton

The Polzin Family

Katie Axelson ’07

Philip and Eva Ray

Robert and Heather Bahillo

Rockwell Automation Matching Gift Program

Andres Baptista and Zaida Puy Arena

The Rossi Family

Dr. Michael A. Boticki

Mr. Nicholas Schneider ’14

Carpetland USA Flooring Center

Mr. and Mrs. Klay Shannon

Dr. Marshall Cushman

Mr. and Mrs. Brian E. Smith

Dr. Anthony Deuster and

Michael and Shadia Stewart

Richard and Jean Diaz

Kathryn L. Swanson

Ms. Alexandra Fiegel ’07

Patrick Tews and Elizabeth Morack

Jerry and Lynn Franke

Patty Tollaksen

Mr. Ricky John Gease ’82

Jenny Ulbricht and Greg York

Gould Dentistry, LLC

Tony Veranth ’84 and Chris Veranth

Mari and Jason Grobschmidt

Brian Warner

Ms. Jeanette A. Hoffman

Marcus and Ann White

Mrs. Sandra Brusha-Deuster

Todd and Laura Stoner

Rick and Nicole Farbo

The Tao Family

Dave and Julie Feiler

Gus and Linda Tiboris

Mateo Garcia-Novelli ’15

Mr. and Mrs. David and Sarah Turek

Alyson Gerdes

Daniel and Dawn Vaccaro

Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth L. Gould

Andrea and Thomas Ware

Kevin S. Hall ’85

Dianne Weaver

Kevin and Beth Hokanson

John and Jenifer Wietfeldt

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Jerry and Mary Wolf

Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Zlevor

HAWK CIRCLE ($250 +) Anonymous (18) AbbVie, Inc. Apple, Inc.

John Anderson ’81 and Kerry Anderson Anthony and Casie Arnone

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Atanasoff Sogyong Auh ’99

Joyce Ramos Barnes ’93 and Jonathan Barnes Mr. and Mrs. Jason L. Barrett

The Baxter International Foundation Ms. Linda Benfield

Kenneth and Susan Bergquist Nate and Mimi Boren

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Brouillard Lynn Bukacek

Shawn and Angie Burwell

Steve and Anne Callaghan The Carpenter Family

John and Terie Carpenter

The Prairie School Class of 2022 Mr. and Mrs. Terry J. Ciszewski Mr. and Mrs. John Corcoran Gregory Davis ’82 Roslyn Davis

Christopher L. Dean ’84 Jeff and Erin Decker

Sheetal and Ratnang Desai

Tom and Melissa Dreifuerst Gee Dujua

Dr. Julie A. Ericson ’83 Nate Franke ’99

John and Abigail French

Carey Harris Fry ’89 and Robert Fry Scott and Sue Gaertig

Michael and Amy Garbo

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Glines Mario and Claudia Gvuzd Josh and Erin Hareng

Mr. Christopher Adam Holterman ’03 Mr. and Mrs. Daniel E. Horton Susan Inbusch

Nick and Brooke Infusino Tom and Pat Isaacson

Majed and Reem Jandali

Jockey International, Inc.

Jason and Destiny Johnson Cymbria Jung ’98 Denise Ketterer

Dr. Elizabeth King

Joseph and Ramona Kocjan

Mr. and Mrs. John Korndoerfer

John and Victoria Albert

The Korthase Family

Steve and Elisabeth Anderson

Wolf Korndoerfer

Dr. Matthew Larsen and

Mrs. Jenny Antonneau Larsen

Ms. Diann Lebow The Lieb Family

Alfred and Kelly Longoria

Juan and Raeleah Martinez Deepak and Pooja Mehra The Miller Family

Sam and Liz Modder

Pedro Paulo Mosquim and Fabiola Goes Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Nelson

Paul Nowak and Elizabeth Spalla Brendan and Lisa O’Brien Corey and Laura Oakland

The Olson-Goldman Family

Mr. and Mrs. Sal Pappalardo Fletcher Paulsen

Mr. W. David Perez ’91 and Mrs. Nicole Perez Mr. and Mrs. Greg Peterson Paul Piaskoski and

Shana M. McCombs Piaskoski ’96

Mr. Lucas Raimondi and Mrs. Soledad Pasman Dr. Peter Rayne ’79 and Dr. Natasha Rayne Chris and Michelle Reber

Michael and Kelly Regner

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Regner Scott and Kara Reske

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Anderson

Mike and Debbie Ault

Charles and Alicia Gasser

Ken and Jan Arndt Bernoli Baello

John and Mary Baker Jr.

Dan and Ann Bankenbush Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Barth Tressa and Michael Bates Mrs. Gloria S. Batten

Mary Jane Baumgardt

Ricky and Patty Begotka

Thomas and Judith Benko

Stephanie and Steve Benner Steve and Inez Berg The Berkey Family

John and Janice Bernez William M. Black III

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Blenke

Gerhardt and Michelle Bobzien Frank and Sharon Boerner

Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Breiwick Mrs. Kathy Bremner

Mr. James Broetzmann

Mr. and Mrs. Orey R. Buzzelli David and Wallapa Carlson

Reverends Erik Carlson and

Kimberlee Tomczak Carlson

Dr. Brian Schwartz and Rachael Randolph

Susan and Ferdinand Chiappetta

Randy and Debi Schlicht Vicki and Ted Schmitz Chirag Shah

Bill and Ali Sluis

Ms. Mary Ann Smith

Chad and Heather Solodio The Stahl Family

Jenni and Rich Chiapete

Kyong Chong and Ahreum Jung Kevin and Kelly Christensen Torben Christensen

Brad and Kathy Cooper Ms. Carmen Decot Steven DeLorenzo

Zachary DeVillers and

Norissa Miller DeVillers ’03

Robert and Dawn Stepien

Rhonda Deneka

John Stracke

Mr. Tom DiSalvo

Steve and Marsha Stoner Patti Stracke

Dean Tiboris and Mary Ballard Mr. and Mrs. Tim Ulrich Uline

Anthony Wooden and Rebecca Perry ’95

RED & BLUE CIRCLE ($100 +) Anonymous (32)

Adam Dillon and Michelle Braun William and Virginia Driscoll Dal and Jacquelyn Drummer Dave and Kathy Eberle

Bill and Renee Elworthy

Norm and Mari Erickson

Joel Espinoza and Melinda Ferg-Espinoza Mr. Zachary Ferraro

Mr. and Mrs. Massi Ferrentino Yazi and Simone Fletcher

Mr. Radhi Abdulnabi and

Mr. and Mrs. Steve Foltz

Pamela Alberico

Richard Fortune and Laura Narten & Family

Ms. Fatma-Zohra Nedjari

Sarah Friday Fredrickson ’91

Bonnie B. Friday

Christine Chapman

Joseph Schatz

Jon Fredrickson and

Mona Archibald

Norris and Judy Richardson Patricia Rojo

Kurt and Lisa Frank

Aaron Ford ’96 and Erika Ford ’95

Liz Gabriel ’86

Marianthi Gegas

Mr. Brian Glines ’08 and Mrs. Sarah Glines Dennis and Sandra Grinde Steve Grinde

Scott and Pat Grobschmidt Gundlach Graphics, LLC

Mr. Austin and Dr. Jolyn Gundlach Dave and Debbie Hamilton Stephanie Hanson Rita Harris

TJ and Amber Hearn

Mr. and Mrs. James E. Henderson Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harlan Ms. Erica Lynn Helland ’03

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hoffman Jeff and Lesli Hrouda

Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Huebsch Nancy and Warren Icke Steve and Diana Jacoby Cynthia Johnson

Pat and Katie Johnson Heather Kent

Ron and Dottie Kingen Jacki Kirt

William and Gale Knight Melanie Knoell

Bernadette and Ray Krivsky Jessica and Brian Krivsky James A. Kurz ’70

Dr. and Mrs. Robert Laing

Mr. and Mrs. David J. LaLonde Mr. and Mrs. Steve LaLonde

Ms. Hannah Lane and Dr. Peter Sattler Dennis and Leslie Lantz Stu and Julie LaRose

Richard and Tanya Larsen

Stephanie Ledvina and Lisa Luchun Becky Leffler ’11 Susan Lescher

Janice Limperis

Connie and Joseph Lipari Bree Mahone

Dolores Maki

Dave and Maggie Manley Joe and Christina Manley Mike and Alex Marz

Margaret and Mark McDonough Stuart and Mary McKie Jane and Ronald Means Lucy Mellow

Shazia Miller ’85 and Sam Miller

Barbara and Charles Vallone

Tom and Wendy Csik

Calvin and Leslie Motsch

Ryan and Jamie VanDeLoo

Mike D’Amour

William and Peggy Moore Zach and Erika Motsch Bob and Kelly Mould Leeann Naughton Sally Natchek

Diane and John Oakland Kathy Palmen

Mark and Dori Panthofer Lee and Patricia Pearson

Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Pehlivanian Rachel Pena and Ryan Chadek

Dr. Curtis A. and Susan M. Perry Amy Peterson

Mr. Francis Peterson

Jeff and Kris Philippi

Mr. and Mrs. James A. Pitts Mr. and Mrs. Brad Placzek The Posnanski Family

Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Price Naoko Puntillo

John and Carol Rezmer

Steve and Jessica Rezmer

The Roncone-Harvey Family Tom Ropiak

Wendie Rose

Lindsay Roskovensky ’02 and Mathieu Roskovensky

Jordan Rowland ’06

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ruetz Peter and Doris Saenim Helen Schaefer

Nich and Shannon Schafer Gary and Sharon Schonert

Gregg and Jennifer Schwark Sybil Shepard

Bob and Sue Siegert

David Speaks and Lynn Parys Speaks Jim and Joyce Smith Lucy Smith

Toni Alicia Jackson Smith ’84 Laverne Spang

Valerie and Andrew Sprunger Neil and Ashley Staeck Judy and Steve Stead Andrew Stelloh

Dr. Rebecca Stohler ’90 and Julianne Jamel Mr. and Mrs. Richard Stoner Mr. Nolan Stracke ’10 Kevin Stouwie ’87

Kenneth Swanson and Barbara Hoppa Swanson Drs. Tatyana Taranukha and Ryan Doyle Thrivent Financial

Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Ulrich Allan and Susan Unger

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Larry and Karen VanDeLoo Heather Vanoss

Ms. Lekshmi Venu ’93

Wilbur Warren and Mary Becker

Drs. Jean Weaver and Francis Peterson Eric and Marcia Wilks Kevin and Liz Will

Mrs. Lois G. Wilson Chao-Ying Yan

Jing Yu and Eric Chien Jason and Kayla Zeno

Mr. David Zerfoss and Mrs. Norma Wood ’72 Jim Zielinski

Mike and Linda Zolnosky

TPS CIRCLE ($1 +)

Mr. Jonathan Cushman and Ms. Jennifer Cobb Daniel and Danelle Davies Michael J. Degenhart ’80

Orlando and Jeanie Dennis Trista Deuster ’16

Kanwal Dhar and Shally Chogtu Theresa Dicello

Trisha and Andrew Dodge Lee and Bev Doyle

Dan and Raeann Eeg

Rachel S. Ehlers and Jamaal Dyess Mr. and Mrs. Brian Fenkl

Dr. Eduardo Garcia-Novelli and Dr. Maria Fiocchi

Kodakara Fletcher ’18 Tarkan Fletcher ’20

Dr. and Mrs. Robin Ford

Anonymous (41)

Kim and Dave Forsman

Sherry Allen

Lynn and Dennis Fredrickson

Laura Anderson

Geoff and Melissa Gallert

Dr. Helen Arkema ’83 and Mr. Garry Arkema

The Ginestel Family

Jane Baldassi

Ted Goad

Tony and Tanya Baumgardt

Helga and Bob Gold

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Bayer

Steven Gold

Seth Bigelow ’78 and Melva Bigelow

Martin and Dianne Gorbaty

Wendy W. Bishop

James and Jill Gottsacker

Joan Bolewski

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Grauwels

Ms. Barbara Borthwick

Anne Hann

Mark and Cheri Burwell

Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Hartig ’76

Anne Cafferty

Sonja and Doug Haske

Delores Casebolt

Jeff and Martha Hawes

James Cauley and Brenda Andrews

Therese Heller

Dennis and Kay Christensen

Ms. Emily A. Henkel

Aaron Christianson

Bernardine Hoff

Shawn and Samantha Comaris ’95

David and Virginia Holle

Craig Cortez

Sandra House

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Ahlensdorf, Sr.

Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Fredenburgh

Chris and Virginia Anderson

Mark and Kathleen Galica

Dan and Maureen Angeline

Donna and Jim Garard

Rodney and Barb Baerbock

Jenni Goad

Dennis and Kim Ballewske

Barb Gold

Robert and Denise Baus

Rachel Gold

Jennifer Betournay ’97 and Scott Betournay

Joann Goodyear

Mara Bijold ’05 and Grant Bijold

Glenn and Karen Gorsiski

Michael and Karen Bochek

Josh and Katie Gottschlich

Asewanetta Bonner

Dorothy Gutenkunst

Tom and Sally Brown

Ken Harris

Pat and Connie Byrne

Kristi Harvey

Patricia Carnevale

Steve and Kathy Hatch

Ms. Kelsey Cassidy

Jane and Tom Hearn

Cynthia Christensen

Cheryl Henkel

Kylie Christensen

Peggy Hirsch

Mark Ciotola ’80

John and Cheryl Hogan

Sandra Contardi-Rice

Ed and Jody Holle

Mrs. Arlene B. Howe

Les and Margaret Miller

Rebeccah Steffensen Schmidt ’03 and

Scott and Kathryn Huggins

Donna Nash

Marilyn and Bill Scholz

Mrs. Madisen Nitsch

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Schwalbe

George and Linda Huggins

Tim Ipsen and Elissa Richardson

Mr. Warren Kekahbah and Ms. Melissa Jahnke Neal and Amanda Johnson Mr. Nick Karegeannes

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce J. Kelly

Jim Kettinger ’06 and Emily Kettinger Sam and Sarah Kiesewetter W. Ann Kirkwood

Mr. and Mrs. Ted Knier Emma P. Knoell ’20

Joe and Rachael Kolb

Larry and Cindy Kornack Rick and Lauren Koston Ms. Sandra Krsko

The Kumar Family

Rakesh Kumar and Reena Singh Brianna Kunstman

The Family of Jolie and Lilie Larson Cecilia Leal

Dennis and JoAnn Leeder Michael and Mary Lees

Cathie and John Lehman

Mr. and Mrs Bruce Lehmkuhl Mr. and Mrs. Don Libby Jake Lipor

Elizabeth Long

Olivia Lutterman Sumana Manda Mary Manley

Ms. Izzi Marquart

Cathy and Dennis McCombs Judy and Dennis McDonald Andrew and Gail McIntosh

Mr. Everett McKinney and Dr. John Magerus Charles and Judith McManmon

Mr. Andrew Mielke and Ms. Casey Latus

Judy Mills

Bradford and Sara Nelson Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Norton Michael O’Brien Robyn O’Brien

Mike and Connie O’Neal Bonnie Ohmstead Jill Oscarson

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew R. Oscarson Keith and Melody Owsley

Matthew Schmidt

Tom and Lynda Schrader Mr. Drew Scott

Mark and Sherry Sinnen Helen and Joost Sluis Kathy Smith

Sandra Smith Herb Spalla

Dr. Elizabeth Nicole Steffensen ’04 and Mr. Ryan Mattsen

Jon and Suzanne Palmen

Warren and Sheila Straus

Tom and Millie Peck

Paul Suprak

Linda and Mark Pawlak Lukeus and Sarah Perez

Zach and Cassie Perkins

Bruce and Kathleen Pessin Pfizer

Elena Pica

Roger and Sue Placzek Ms. Karen Poppy Mrs. Tori Rader

Jessie and Linda Ramos

Robert and Carolyn Rashleger Jim and Jane Raufus Raquel Reed

Mr. David Reske ’16 Robert Rice

Nikunj and Kirti Ringwala Christine Rudolph

Mauricio and Elizabeth Salazar Bob and Sue Samer

Armando and Leticia Sanchez

Mr. and Mrs. David Santalucia Andy and Leila Schaefer Brad Schafer

Nancy Schmidt

Dr. and Mrs. Alistair Sundareson Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Svoboda Joe and Pam Tajnai Tameka Tate

Rick Taterczynski and Izzi Buikus Barbara Tigges

Jane and Joe Truka Jenny Ulbricht

Kathleen Ulbricht

Michael and Mary Vandegriffe Katherine Little Vollmer ’71 Helmut Wagner

Ken and Pamela Wagner

David and Rosemary Wait

Eileen Walter and Gregg Baumann Jo Anne Watt

John and Jodi White Ms. Alison Wojahn

Jacqueline Wojtanowski

Hannah and Rich Wosilait John and Barb Zeni Dr. Adam Ziemann

Ms. Margaret Zimmermann ’14

Endowment

Prairie’s endowment generates interest to fund the school’s annual operations as well as its scholarship program. We are grateful to all of our endowment donors, whose gifts will ensure our financial health for years to come.

— Mr. and Mrs. Mark M. Chulew ’72 Edward and Barbara E. Chulew Private Foundation

The Estate of Imogene Powers Johnson

Richard C. Gorton ’78

Timothy Ray

Dr. Rafi and Mrs. June Rafiullah

Pat ’87 and Patty Wagner

Mr. and Mrs. David Hecker Philip and Eva Ray

SC Johnson Giving, Inc.

The Prairie Fund

The Prairie Fund is our most critical fundraising endeavor, as it supports every facet of school life. Our entire community is grateful to the donors who contributed to the Prairie Fund in the 2022-2023 year.

— Anonymous (13)

The Barden Family

Andrea Bukacek ’03 and Alan Clark

AbbVie, Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Jason L. Barrett

Michelle and Anthony Burch

7 Mile Fair, Inc.

Mr. Radhi Abdulnabi and

Ms. Fatma-Zohra Nedjari

Mr. Matthew Adamczyk ’10 and

Mrs. Abby Gaertig Adamczyk ’10

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Ahlensdorf, Sr. John and Victoria Albert Lois Alexander AmazonSmile

Jeramie and Shahla Anders

Chris and Virginia Anderson

John Anderson ’81 and Kerry Anderson Laura Anderson

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Anderson

Steve and Elisabeth Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Matt L. Andis

James Cauley and Brenda Andrews Nijole and Julius Andriusis

Dan and Maureen Angeline

Dr. and Mrs. Michael E. Angeline Sever and Andreea Anton

Mr. and Mrs. Gus Antonneau Apple, Inc.

Joy and Jon Aragones Mona Archibald

Dr. Helen Arkema ’83 and Mr. Garry Arkema Ken and Jan Arndt

Anthony and Casie Arnone

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Atanasoff Sogyong Auh ’99

Graham and Jennifer Ault Mike and Debbie Ault

Mr. and Mrs. Dennis R. Axelson Katie Axelson ’07

Akemi and Darryl Babu ’88

Dr. Manoj Babu and Dr. Sheryn Abraham Patricia Badger Bernoli Baello

Rodney and Barb Baerbock John and Mary Baker Jr.

Mr. Mark Baker and Ms. Sylvie Travard Jane Baldassi

Dr. Dana Ballewske and Angela Dellise Dennis and Kim Ballewske

Michael Banco and Hope Heaster Dan and Ann Bankenbush

Andres Baptista and Zaida Puy Arena

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Joyce Ramos Barnes ’93 and Jonathan Barnes Bobbie Barrows

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Barth Tressa and Michael Bates Mrs. Gloria S. Batten

John ’83 and Jane Batten Mary Jane Baumgardt

Tony and Tanya Baumgardt Robert and Denise Baus

Nathan and Nicole Bayer Mr. and Mrs. Peter Bayer

The Baxter International Foundation Ricky and Patty Begotka

Lynn Bukacek

Mark and Cheri Burwell

Shawn and Angie Burwell

Mr. and Mrs. Orey R. Buzzelli Pat and Connie Byrne

Zach and Rebecca Byrne Anne Cafferty

Steve and Anne Callaghan

Alexandre Camanho and Viviane Cordeiro Dan and Lauren Carbajal

David and Wallapa Carlson

Reverends Erik Carlson and

Kimberlee Tomczak Carlson

Tiffany and Jon Behrends

Patricia Carnevale

Stephanie and Steve Benner

Dick Carpenter

Thomas and Judith Benko Steve and Inez Berg

Kenneth and Susan Bergquist The Berkey Family

John and Janice Bernez

Jennifer Betournay ’97 and Scott Betournay Seth Bigelow ’78 and Melva Bigelow Mara Bijold ’05 and Grant Bijold The Binder Family

Laura and Rob Bishop Wendy W. Bishop

William M. Black III

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Blenke

Gerhardt and Michelle Bobzien Michael and Karen Bochek Frank and Sharon Boerner

Michael and Kathryn Boero and Family Joan Bolewski

Asewanetta Bonner

Leandro Bordagaray and Maria Viana Nate and Mimi Boren

Ms. Barbara Borthwick

Michael ’99 and Shay ’00 Borzynski John and Constance Boticki Dr. Michael A. Boticki

Mr. and Mrs. Corey Brandt The Breit Family

Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Breiwick Mrs. Kathy Bremner

Mr. James Broetzmann Tom and Sally Brown

Jim and Abby Brzezinski

The Carpenters

John and Terie Carpenter Delores Casebolt

Ms. Kelsey Cassidy

Mr. Rocco Castellano and Dr. Irina Ciubotaru Mr. and Mrs. Tony Castellano Caterpillar

The Chadwick Family The Chairez Family

Christine Chapman

Tony Chen and Crystal Chiu Jenni and Rich Chiapete

Susan and Ferdinand Chiappetta Kyong Chong and Ahreum Jung Cynthia Christensen

Dennis and Kay Christensen Kevin and Kelly Christensen Kylie Christensen

Mr. Patrick Christensen Aaron Christianson Mark Ciotola ’80

David and Shawn Clark CNH Industrial

Richard Coates ’72

Nat and Laura Coffman

Shawn and Samantha Comaris ’95 Sandra Contardi-Rice

Brad and Kathy Cooper

Mr. and Mrs. John Corcoran Craig Cortez

Tom and Wendy Csik

Mr. Jonathan Cushman and Ms. Jennifer Cobb

Why i support prairie Philanthropy is an expression of gratitude, and asking fellow parents for philanthropic support gives them an opportunity to reflect on their own appreciation for the many ways Prairie has enriched their lives. That reflection and potential support makes our community stronger. Staff and faculty members at Prairie go above and beyond, and while I could never thank them enough, giving to the Prairie Fund is my chance to go above and beyond.

ANDREA GODSON

Parent of Finley ’30 and Kyler ’28 Co-Chair, Parent Prairie Fund Parents of Prairie (POP) Volunteer Premiere Volunteer

Dr. Marshall Cushman

Jersey Eickhorst

Carey Harris Fry ’89 and Robert Fry

Meg Rowland Daniels ’82 and John Daniels

Bill and Renee Elworthy

Scott and Sue Gaertig

Mike D’Amour

Daniel and Danelle Davies Ms. Elizabeth Davis Gregory Davis ’82 Roslyn Davis

Christopher L. Dean ’84 Jeff and Erin Decker

Michael J. Degenhart ’80 Steven DeLorenzo Rhonda Deneka

Orlando and Jeanie Dennis Sheetal and Ratnang Desai

Aniruddha and Aditi Deshpande

Dr. Anthony Deuster and Mrs. Sandra BrushaDeuster

Trista Deuster ’16

Zachary DeVillers and

Norissa Miller DeVillers ’03

Kanwal Dhar and Shally Chogtu Richard and Jean Diaz Theresa Dicello

Adam Dillon and Michelle Braun Andrew and Ally Docksey

Mr. Dhaval Doshi and Mrs. Dhruti Joshi Lee and Bev Doyle

Tom and Melissa Dreifuerst

William and Virginia Driscoll Dal and Jacquelyn Drummer Gee Dujua

Dr. Barbara Little Earnest ’74 and Mr. Royce Earnest

Dr. Nichole Elcano

Norm and Mari Erickson Dr. Julie A. Ericson ’83

Joel Espinoza and Melinda Ferg-Espinoza Mr. and Mrs. Joe Fallico Rick and Nicole Farbo

Geoff and Melissa Gallert Donna and Jim Garard

Dr. Eduardo Garcia-Novelli and Dr. Maria Fiocchi

Mateo Garcia-Novelli ’15

Dr. Therese Fellner and Paul Fiegel

Jim and Jennifer Gavigan

Amanda Felkey

Mr. and Mrs. Brian Fenkl

Mr. and Mrs. Massi Ferrentino Ty Ferrill

Ms. Alexandra Fiegel ’07 Rick and Jana Fiegel

Michael and Ann Flegel Kodakara Fletcher ’18 Rowan Fletcher ’22

Tarkan Fletcher ’20

Yazi and Simone Fletcher Mr. and Mrs. Steve Foltz

Aaron Ford ’96 and Erika Ford ’95 Dr. and Mrs. Robin Ford Kim and Dave Forsman

Richard Fortune and Laura Narten & Family Scott and Charmaine Foster Kurt and Lisa Frank

Jerry and Lynn Franke Nate Franke ’99

Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Fredenburgh Jon Fredrickson and

Sarah Friday Fredrickson ’91

Lynn and Dennis Fredrickson

Dan and Raeann Eeg

Bonnie B. Friday

Rachel S. Ehlers and Jamaal Dyess

Mark and Kathleen Galica

Mr. and Mrs. Brian Farr

Dave and Kathy Eberle

Mark and Linda Eckhardt

Liz Gabriel ’86

John and Abigail French Matthew Friedman

Charles and Alicia Gasser Paul and Heidi Gaylord Brian Geary

Mr. Ricky John Gease ’82 Marianthi Gegas

Van and Janet Gegas Alyson Gerdes Kristina Gile

The Ginestel Family

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Glines Jenni Goad Ted Goad

Adam and Andrea Godson Barb Gold

Helga and Bob Gold Steven Gold

Rachel Gold

Joann Goodyear

Martin and Dianne Gorbaty Glenn and Karen Gorsiski James and Jill Gottsacker

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Grauwels Mike and Jessica Greb

Dennis and Sandra Grinde Steve Grinde

Mari and Jason Grobschmidt Scott and Pat Grobschmidt

Gundlach Graphics, LLC

Tim Ipsen and Elissa Richardson

Joe and Rachael Kolb

Jacob and Kristin Gunia

Benjamin ’96 and Jenelle Isaacson

Dennis and Sandy Kontra

Mr. Austin and Dr. Jolyn Gundlach The Gutenkunst Family Dorothy Gutenkunst

Nils-Holger and Jessica Gutjahr Mario and Claudia Gvuzd Marie Haertel

Kevin S. Hall ’85

Ben and Jamie Hamilton

Dave and Debbie Hamilton

Dana and Michael Handrow Anne Hann

Josh and Erin Hareng

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harlan

Scott Harlan and Maureen Kennedy-Harlan Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Hartig ’76 Kristi Harvey

Sonja and Doug Haske John Hasskamp

Steve and Kathy Hatch Jeff and Martha Hawes Jane and Tom Hearn

TJ and Amber Hearn

Andrew ’95 and Holly Isaacson Tom and Pat Isaacson

Steve and Diana Jacoby

Majed and Reem Jandali Peter and Karen Jansson Pete and Paula Jedlicka

Jockey International, Inc.

Johnson Family Foundation Johnson Outdoors, Inc. Cynthia Johnson

Dave and Chris Johnson

H. Fisk Johnson, Ph.D. ’75

Jason and Destiny Johnson Josh Johnson

Molly Lofquist Johnson and Steve Johnson Neal and Amanda Johnson Pam Johnson ’73

Pat and Katie Johnson

Mr. S. Curtis Johnson ’73 Skye Johnson

Mrs. Winifred Johnson-Marquart ’77 and Mr. Michael Marquart

Ms. Erica Lynn Helland ’03

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Joost ’03

Mr. and Mrs. James E. Henderson

Charles Jorgensen

Therese Heller

Cheryl Henkel

Ms. Emily A. Henkel Bob and Sally Henzl The Heredia Family Jose Heredia

Brian Hervat and Carolyn Kirkby Mr. and Mrs. Collin Hirsch

Steve and Cindy Joost

Josephine P. and John J. Louis Foundation Cymbria Jung ’98

Kane Communications Group The Kane Family

Joseph Kann and Christine Shields Kann Mr. George Karegeannes and

Mrs. Amy Karegeannes ’94

Peggy Hirsch

Mr. Nick Karegeannes

Ethan and Elizabeth Hoff

H. William Keland ’73 and Debbie Keland

Bernardine Hoff

Ms. Jeanette A. Hoffman

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hoffman John and Cheryl Hogan

Stephen and Jane Hogan

David and Virginia Holle Ed and Jody Holle

Mr. Warren Kekahbah and Ms. Melissa Jahnke The Kelly Family

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce J. Kelly Brian Ketterer

Jim Kettinger ’06 and Emily Kettinger Mr. Khalaf M. Khalaf and

Mrs. Hadjer K. Abdulnabi

The Holum Family

Sam and Sarah Kiesewetter

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel E. Horton

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas King ’78

David C. Hoogendoorn Charitable Giving Matt and Alyson Horton

Mr. and Mrs. David Horvath Sandra House

Mrs. Arlene B. Howe

Jeff and Lesli Hrouda

Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Huebsch George and Linda Huggins

Scott and Kathryn Huggins The Huynh Family

Nancy and Warren Icke Susan Inbusch

Alysha Ingham

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Dr. Elizabeth King

Ron and Dottie Kingen

Rick and Heather KingenSmith W. Ann Kirkwood Jacki Kirt

Mr. and Mrs. Ted Knier

William and Gale Knight Knoell Family Dentistry Emma P. Knoell ’20

Dr. Lyndsay N. Knoell and Dr. Wendy M. Knoell Melanie Knoell

Joseph and Ramona Kocjan Steve and Dana Kohl

Peter and Lisa Koleske

Larry and Cindy Kornack The Korthase Family

Rick and Lauren Koston Vince and Karen Kostos

Thomas and Rebekah Kowalski Bernadette and Ray Krivsky Jessica and Brian Krivsky Ms. Sandra Krsko Megan Krueger

Mackenzie Krupp

The Kumar Family

Rakesh Kumar and Reena Singh Brianna Kunstman James A. Kurz ’70

John and Bev Kuvshinikov

Ashley and Laura LaBarber Jim and Debbie Ladwig

Dr. and Mrs. Robert Laing

Lisa Laitinen and Andrew Fellner Mr. and Mrs. David J. LaLonde Mr. and Mrs. Steve LaLonde

Ms. Hannah Lane and Dr. Peter Sattler Brian Langendorf

Gary and Mary Sue Langendorf Dennis and Leslie Lantz Amy S. Larsen ’73

The Family of Jolie and Lilie Larson Richard and Tanya Larsen Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Lawler The Leal Family Cecilia Leal

Laurine Leanna

Ms. Diann Lebow

Stephanie Ledvina and Lisa Luchun Dennis and JoAnn Leeder Michael and Mary Lees Becky Leffler ’11

Mr. and Mrs. Raymond C. Leffler Cathie and John Lehman

Mr. and Mrs Bruce Lehmkuhl

Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Leinweber

Connor ’10 and Veronica Leipold

Craig Leipold and Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74 Curtie Leipold ’11 Fordy Leipold ’15

The Lescher Family Susan Lescher

Mr. and Mrs. Don Libby The Lieb Family Janice Limperis

Connie and Joseph Lipari Jake Lipor

Jim and Rachel Lochtefeld Elizabeth Long

Alfred and Kelly Longoria

John and Jodi Lopez

Josh and Sheila Mrotek

Dr. Joshua and Mrs. Christa Pessin

The Lucht Family

Greg and Sheryl Mueller

Mr. Francis Peterson

Mick and Missy Lucareli Olivia Lutterman

James and Jessica Lynott

Robert and Cheryl MacDonald

Steve Mudroch ’06

Jim Mueller and Christine Henke Mueller Anderson Müller and

Helaine Edwiges Peixoto Müller

Mrs. Dorothy MacVicar

Dr. Tawfiq Nadi and Mrs. Hoda Matariyeh-Nadi

Bree Mahone

Sally Natchek

Mark and Becky Madsen Dolores Maki

Carol and Robert Malik

The Malone Family Foundation Dr. John and Becky Mamalakis Sumana Manda

Dave and Maggie Manley Joe and Christina Manley Mary Manley

Ken Marek and Jackie Hung Joe and Sara Marshall

Juan and Raeleah Martinez Mike and Alex Marz

Shannon Massman ’01 and Ryan Massman Joseph Mathew

Steve Maurer and Amy Giles-Maurer Kelly Mayer

Luciano Mazon and Michelle Maiochi Mazon Cathy and Dennis McCombs Judy and Dennis McDonald

Brian McDonough and Georgia Bruch McDonough ’78

Margaret and Mark McDonough The McGaughey Family Patrick McGuire and

Megan Rowland McGuire ’02

Andrew and Gail McIntosh Stuart and Mary McKie

Mr. Everett McKinney and Dr. John Magerus Charles and Judith McManmon Kristin McManmon

Mark McNeely and Nuria Ortiz Carolyn McNeil

Mr. and Mrs. David J. McPhee Jane and Ronald Means

Deepak and Pooja Mehra Lucy Mellow

Blaine and Mary Metzger

Garet and Kristin Mianecki Microsoft Corporation

Mr. Andrew Mielke and Ms. Casey Latus Guy and Mona Milinski

Les and Margaret Miller

Shazia Miller ’85 and Sam Miller Judy Mills

Sam and Liz Modder Dottie Moll

Norman and Lynne Monson William and Peggy Moore

Pedro Pablo Morcillo and Diana Diaz

Pedro Paulo Mosquim and Fabiola Goes Calvin and Leslie Motsch Zach and Erika Motsch

Donna Nash

Leeann Naughton

Bradford and Sara Nelson Brett and Lindsie Nelson

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Nelson Mrs. Madisen Nitsch The Nogueira Family

Northwestern Mutual Life Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Norton Brendan and Lisa O’Brien Michael O’Brien

Patrick and Betsie O’Brien Robyn O’Brien

Mike and Connie O’Neal

Corey and Laura Oakland Diane and John Oakland

Amy Peterson

Jeff and Missy Peterson

Matthew and Monte Peterson Mr. Andrew Pettibone ’10 Pfizer

Jeff and Kris Philippi Rick and Teri Pias Elena Pica

Mr. and Mrs. James A. Pitts Nick and Aliya Pitts

Mr. and Mrs. Brad Placzek Roger and Sue Placzek Mimi and Larry Platt The Polzin Family Ms. Karen Poppy

The Posnanski Family

Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey Price Naoko Puntillo

Roberta Puntillo-Jorgensen and Kurt Jorgensen Robert and Samantha Quam

Racine Community Foundation Eric and Lisa Olesen Fund

Bonnie Ohmstead

Racine Community Foundation - Richard M.

Mr. and Mrs. Eric A. Olesen

Racine Community Foundation -

Mike Ohmstead and Kara Ohmstead ’03 Dr. Kimberly Rybicki Olesen ’05 and Mr. Peter Olesen ’05

The Olson-Goldman Family

Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Onyon Optum

Kevin and Heather Orth Jill Oscarson

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew R. Oscarson The Osiecki Family

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Ostergaard Katie Ouradnik

Keith and Melody Owsley

Mr. and Mrs. Mark P. Pacchini Jon and Suzanne Palmen Kathy Palmen

Mark and Dori Panthofer

Mr. and Mrs. Sal Pappalardo

and Josephine C. Carpenter Scholarship Fund William and Jeanne Rayne Family Fund

Mrs. Tori Rader

Asad and Rabia Rahman

Mr. Lucas Raimondi and Mrs. Soledad Pasman Jessie and Linda Ramos

Mr. and Mrs. Mauro Ramos

Robert and Carolyn Rashleger Jim and Jane Raufus Jeanne L. Rayne

Dr. Peter Rayne ’79 and Dr. Natasha Rayne Raquel Reed

Michael and Kelly Regner

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Regner Russell and Sarah Reimann

Renaissance Charitable Foundation -

Kurt Jorgensen and Roberta Puntillo Charitable Fund

Fletcher Paulsen

Mr. David Reske ’16

Christine Pearson

John and Carol Rezmer

Linda and Mark Pawlak Lee and Patricia Pearson

Seth and Andrea Pearson

Mr. Tristan Pearson ’99 and Dr. Amy Pearson Tom and Millie Peck

Chris and Kara Peery

Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Pehlivanian Patricia Penman

Mr. W. David Perez ’91 and Mrs. Nicole Perez Lukeus and Sarah Perez

William and Catherine Perez Zach and Cassie Perkins

Dr. Curtis A. and Susan M. Perry

E. Rodney Perry and Ursula Hamilton-Perry Bruce and Kathleen Pessin

Scott and Kara Reske

Steve and Jessica Rezmer Robert Rice

Norris and Judy Richardson Nikunj and Kirti Ringwala

Sudip and Amrita Ringwala

Dr. Adrian Rivas and Dr. Jennifer Zeni Roy and Vanessa Rivera

Rocco Castellano Design Studio, Inc.

Rockwell Automation Matching Gift Program Thomas J. Rodgers II ’99 and Family

Abigail A. Rogers ’12 and Max Rogers Sandra R. Rogers ’82 Patricia Rojo

The Roncone-Harvey Family

Melissa and Daniel Ropiak

Mr. Douglas Shimp and

Gus and Linda Tiboris

Wendie Rose

Bob and Sue Siegert

Barbara Tigges

Tom Ropiak

Lindsay Roskovensky ’02 and Mathieu Roskovensky

The Rossi Family

John S. Rowland II ’75 Jordan Rowland ’06

Nicholas and Kelly Rozzoni

Braden and Cristin Rudolph Christine Rudolph

Nick and Jen Ruetz

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ruetz

The Ruffo Family Foundation, Inc.

Richard Ruffo ’83 and Diane Ruffo Melissa Ruta

Ruud Family Foundation Al and Patty Ruud

Chris Ruud ’89 and Chantil Ruud Dr. Ray Rybicki

The Saenim Family

Peter and Doris Saenim

Mauricio and Elizabeth Salazar Bob and Sue Samer

Armando and Leticia Sanchez

Edwin Sandle and Nicole D’Amour Mr. and Mrs. David Santalucia SC Johnson

SC Johnson Giving, Inc.

Mrs. Shakila Manogaran Shimp ’86

Jennifer Pichelman Sinnen ’04 and Dan Sinnen Mark and Sherry Sinnen Helen and Joost Sluis The Smith Family The Smith Family

Mr. and Mrs. Brian E. Smith Doug and Frieda Smith Jim and Joyce Smith Lucy Smith

Kathy Smith

Ms. Mary Ann Smith Sandra Smith

Toni Alicia Jackson Smith ’84 Chad and Heather Solodio Herb Spalla

Laverne Spang

Paul and Christine Spang

Specialty Underwriters LLC

Valerie and Andrew Sprunger Neil and Ashley Staeck The Stahl Family

State Farm Companies Foundation

State Farm Insurance - Brian Ketterer Judy and Steve Stead

Dr. Elizabeth Nicole Steffensen ’04 and Mr. Ryan Mattsen

Andy and Leila Schaefer

Robert and Dawn Stepien

Tom and Wendy Schaefer

Michael and Shadia Stewart

Helen Schaefer Brad Schafer

Nich and Shannon Schafer Joseph Schatz

Randy and Birute Schlecht Randy and Debi Schlicht

Bryan and Alicia Schmidt Nancy Schmidt

Rebeccah Steffensen Schmidt ’03 and Matthew Schmidt

Vicki and Ted Schmitz

Mr. and Mrs. Todd Schober Marilyn and Bill Scholz

Gary and Sharon Schonert

Matthew and Allyson Schrader Tom and Lynda Schrader

Austin Schultz ’04 and Sean Radford Mr. and Mrs. Peter Schwalbe Gregg and Jennifer Schwark

Dr. Brian Schwartz and Rachael Randolph Brian Selmo ’96 and

Suzanne Gasiorkiewicz Selmo ’98

Joel ’83 Shafer and Dan Shafer Mr. and Mrs. Klay Shannon Dennis Shaw and

Elizabeth Pehlivanian Shaw ’86

The Shepard Family Sybil Shepard

Mr. Tony Stevens and Mrs. Jean Stevens Dr. Rebecca Stohler ’90 and Julianne Jamel Robert and Sylvia Stohler

Anne and Richard Stoltenberg Mr. and Mrs. Richard Stoner Todd and Laura Stoner The Stout Family John Stracke

Patti Stracke

Warren and Sheila Straus

Robert and Andrea Styles The Sullivan Family

Dr. and Mrs. Alistair Sundareson Paul Suprak

The Svendsen Family

Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Svoboda Kathryn L. Swanson

Kenneth Swanson and Barbara Hoppa Swanson Daniel and Abby Tajnai Joe and Pam Tajnai The Tao Family

Drs. Tatyana Taranukha and Ryan Doyle Tameka Tate

Rick Taterczynski and Izzi Buikus

Patrick Tews and Elizabeth Morack

Trygve Thoreson and Connie Fletcher Thrivent Financial

Dean Tiboris and Mary Ballard

Dr. Jim and Mrs. Debbie Tierney Terry and Suzann Toll

Erin and Ryan Tollaksen Patty Tollaksen Lisa Trautman

Jane and Joe Truka

Mr. and Mrs. David and Sarah Turek Twin Disc, Inc.

Andrew and Jennifer Twist Joe and Cindy Twist

Jenny Ulbricht and Greg York Kathleen Ulbricht Uline

Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Ulrich Mr. and Mrs. Tim Ulrich Allan and Susan Unger

Darren and Debora Utley

Daniel and Dawn Vaccaro

Barbara and Charles Vallone

Michael and Mary Vandegriffe Larry and Karen VanDeLoo Ryan and Jamie VanDeLoo Heather Vanoss

Dr. and Mrs. Vahag Vartanian Ms. Lekshmi Venu ’93

Mr. and Mrs. J. Joseph Veranth ’80 Mr. Armen A. Vidian ’88

Katherine Little Vollmer ’71 Helmut Wagner

Ken and Pamela Wagner

David and Rosemary Wait

Eileen Walter and Gregg Baumann Brian Warner

Wilbur Warren and Mary Becker Allan and Katie Wassil

Andrew and Ali Wassweiler Jo Anne Watt

Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Weaver Dianne Weaver

Drs. Jean Weaver and Francis Peterson AJ and Shawn Weis

Rebecca L. Wheeler

Ben and Katie White John and Jodi White

John and Jenifer Wietfeldt Eric and Marcia Wilks Tracy Williams

Elizabeth Willis

Mrs. Lois G. Wilson

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Winnen Ms. Alison Wojahn

Jacqueline Wojtanowski

Paul and Paula Wokwicz

Mr. Jeffrey Wolf and Dr. Lisa Wolf Jerry and Mary Wolf Holly Wolf-Mattick

Jeannie Wolicki-Nichols

David Woodhams and Rachelle Yecke

Fred Young and Sandra Harrisson Young ’70

Jim Zielinski

Hannah and Rich Wosilait

Casey and Lisa Yunker

Ms. Margaret Zimmermann ’14

Sammie Woodward ’16 Chao-Ying Yan

Tony and Ann Yeung

Mrs. Jimin Youn and Mr. Sean Youn

Jing Yu and Eric Chien John and Barb Zeni

Jason and Kayla Zeno

Dr. Adam Ziemann

Mike and Linda Zolnosky

Mr. David Zerfoss and Mrs. Norma Wood ’72

Faculty

For the ninth consecutive year, 100% of Prairie’s full-time faculty made a charitable gift to the Prairie Fund –– yet another reminder of their extraordinary commitment to their students.

— Joy and Jon Aragones

Charles and Alicia Gasser

Mr. and Mrs. Dennis R. Axelson

Kristina Gile

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Atanasoff Patricia Badger Bernoli Baello

Mr. Mark Baker and Ms. Sylvie Travard Dan and Ann Bankenbush

Mr. and Mrs. Jason L. Barrett Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Barth Tressa and Michael Bates Robert and Denise Baus

Nathan and Nicole Bayer The Berkey Family

Michael and Kathryn Boero and Family Michael ’99 and Shay ’00 Borzynski Dr. Michael A. Boticki

Mr. and Mrs. Corey Brandt

Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Breiwick Mr. James Broetzmann

Mr. and Mrs. Jim Brzezinski Shawn and Angie Burwell John and Terie Carpenter Ms. Kelsey Cassidy

Jenni and Rich Chiapete

Kevin and Kelly Christensen Aaron Christianson

Nat and Laura Coffman

Mr. Jonathan Cushman and Ms. Jennifer Cobb Daniel and Danelle Davies Ms. Elizabeth Davis Steven DeLorenzo Trista Deuster ’16 Jersey Eickhorst

Mr. and Mrs. Brian Fenkl Kim and Dave Forsman

John and Abigail French Matthew Friedman

Geoff and Melissa Gallert

Dr. Eduardo Garcia-Novelli and Dr. Maria Fiocchi

Brian Geary

The Ginestel Family

Mari and Jason Grobschmidt

Mr. Austin and Dr. Jolyn Gundlach Dana and Michael Handrow TJ and Amber Hearn Ms. Emily A. Henkel

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hoffman The Holum Family

Scott and Kathryn Huggins Alysha Ingham

Tim Ipsen and Elissa Richardson

Molly Lofquist Johnson and Steve Johnson Neal and Amanda Johnson

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Joost ’03 Steve and Cindy Joost

Sam and Sarah Kiesewetter Peter and Lisa Koleske

Vince and Karen Kostos Mackenzie Krupp

Brianna Kunstman

Mr. and Mrs. Steve LaLonde

Ms. Hannah Lane and Dr. Peter Sattler Cecilia Leal

Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Leinweber Jake Lipor

Elizabeth Long

Olivia Lutterman

Robert and Cheryl MacDonald Bree Mahone

Joe and Christina Manley

Margaret and Mark McDonough

Jim Mueller and Christine Henke Mueller Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Nelson Mrs. Madisen Nitsch

Brendan and Lisa O’Brien

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew R. Oscarson Katie Ouradnik

Keith and Melody Owsley Fletcher Paulsen

Seth and Andrea Pearson

Mr. Tristan Pearson ’99 and Dr. Amy Pearson Lukeus and Sarah Perez

Zach and Cassie Perkins Amy Peterson

Matthew and Monte Peterson Nick and Aliya Pitts Jim and Jane Raufus

Mr. David Reske ’16

The Roncone-Harvey Family

Mr. and Mrs. David Santalucia Nich and Shannon Schafer Joseph Schatz

Vicki and Ted Schmitz

Dr. Brian Schwartz and Rachael Randolph Mr. and Mrs. Klay Shannon

Mr. and Mrs. Brian E. Smith

Valerie and Andrew Sprunger The Stout Family

Kenneth Swanson and Barbara Hoppa Swanson Tameka Tate

Rick Taterczynski and Izzi Buikus

Mr. and Mrs. David and Sarah Turek Andrew and Jennifer Twist Darren and Debora Utley

Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Weaver

Drs. Jean Weaver and Francis Peterson Rebecca L. Wheeler

Ben and Katie White

Eric and Marcia Wilks Elizabeth Willis

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Winnen Ms. Alison Wojahn

Holly Wolf-Mattick

Sammie Woodward ’16 Chao-Ying Yan

Casey and Lisa Yunker Jason and Kayla Zeno Jim Zielinski

The

Fast Track

“Prairie students seem college-ready,” says April Lynch (right), Associate Director of Admissions at Syracuse

University. “They are comfortable speaking with adults, able to articulate questions well, know which questions to ask, and are mature. They also seem excited for that

next step of going to college. That isn’t always the case at some of the fairs I attend.”

COLLEGE COUNSELING’S ANNUAL FAIR PROVIDES A VALUABLE OPPORTUNITY FOR STUDENTS TO BEGIN THEIR SEARCH PROCESS. — By Brendan O’Brien Even on a dreary afternoon in the middle of March, the Johnson Athletic

That kind of teamwork is particularly evident each fall as the November 1st

Call it the buzz of possibility. Or perhaps the electricity of anticipation.

to student support, everyone pitching in to ensure seniors can confidently

Center is alive with color. Excitement fills the facility’s upper level track.

This is the school’s annual college fair and all 200 meters of the track are

early decision deadline looms. Faculty kick into overdrive when it comes navigate – i.e. survive – the uncompromising process.

occupied by banquet tables, each adorned with a bright, brilliant banner. The

“Reviewing essays. Writing letters of recommendation. Bringing treats.

The unmistakable orange of Syracuse. Butler, the University of Oklahoma,

faculty is unwavering as students traverse this major life moment,” says

University of Iowa’s trademark black and yellow. The velvety purple of TCU. Arizona State – over forty of the top schools in the country have flocked to Wind Point eager for the chance to talk with Prairie students.

“The fact that we had colleges from twenty-one states attend is a testament to the outstanding reputation that Prairie has in the higher education

community,” says Jim Zielinski, former Co-Director of College Counseling who retired this summer.

The reason for that reputation is, of course, the students. Across the board,

Helping to lower blood pressure with a heart to heart. The help from the Stout.

And for many Prairie students, that college search process, the one that

culminates in the writing of essays and sending of applications, begins in earnest at this annual fair in the JAC.

“It’s always a great day,” says Zielinski. “This opportunity is unique. And our students and parents really take advantage.”

Prairie students are known for being polite, prepared, confident, and curious.

This makes attending the fair an easy sell for college representatives from across the country.

“To consistently produce students this college-ready takes a village,” says

Adam Stout, Co-Director of College Counseling. “And Prairie is a pretty awesome one.”

This annual fair is only part of the college counseling equation. Each year,

Prairie welcomes over one hundred college admission officers to campus to meet with interested students. From occasional travel expenses to hospitality costs

18 | prairieschool.com

to event setup and cleanup, the Prairie Fund is instrumental in ensuring our College Counseling office can best serve our students.

DID YOU KNOW: CLASS OF 2023 Cornell College, Fordham, Howard, Marquette, Vanderbilt, Yale: these are just a few of the schools selected by graduates from the Class of 2023.

50

Graduates

$9.8M Merit Scholarships

225

Offers of Admission

120

Top Schools Accepted

CONGRATULATIONS, MR. Z.!

In May, the Wisconsin Association of College Admission Counseling

“Jim’s career has been dedicated to building

Commitment to Service Award.

ing integrity, and helping students grow up,”

(WACAC) honored Jim Zielinski with the 2023 WACAC Jim Miller

Think of it as the lifetime achievement award for college admission officers.

Prior to arriving at Prairie nearly ten years ago, Zielinski spent over two

relationships, mentoring staff, living and teachsays Stout. “He passionately defends the work

of college admissions and counseling, knowing what we do takes time and energy to learn.”

decades in the Office of Admission at Beloit College.

And now Zielinski will be playing the role of

“I am deeply grateful that I interviewed him years ago while he was still at

last summer, he’s still around from time to time to help plan this year’s

Beloit, insisted we hire him when Prairie added a second college counselor position, and worked with him ever since,” says Maggie McDonough, former Director of College Counseling and retired Head of Upper School.

When McDonough became the Upper School Head in 2020, Prairie hired Adam Stout to serve alongside Zielinski.

mentor. Although he retired from his full-time role

College Fair while Molly Lofquist Johnson takes over his role in College Counseling. (For more on Molly, visit page 43.)

THIS PLACE ROCKS WHETHER CLIMBING THE ROCK WALL AT FALL FEST OR WATCHING THE FIREWORKS AT DIWALI, THE PRAIRIE COMMUNITY IS INTENTIONAL ABOUT CREATING CHANCES TO GROW CLOSER. — By Brendan O’Brien No matter what metrics you use to judge the success of a family festival – by

gallons of custard consumed (ninety), the quality of the orange gorillas created by the balloon artist (remarkable), or the number of times sweaty, tube-socked Middle Schoolers went through the bouncy house maze (impossible to

calculate) – this year’s Fall Fest was, unequivocally, a resounding success.

It didn’t happen by accident.

The constant building and nurturing of relationships is important at Prairie.

Fall Fest, the annual Parent Social, Diwali, 12 Days, Convocation, Alumni Weekend: the list of carefully-orchestrated opportunities to grow closer is numerous by design. From students partnering across divisions to parents

gathering to enjoy a night out to alumni returning to campus to reconnect, a lot of effort goes into growing the Prairie community.

All of these opportunities are made possible because of the Prairie Fund.

This is a place of relentless, nearly constant creativity: writing and singing, sculpting and painting, idea generating and solution finding. All of these

endeavors support the evolution of Prairie’s masterwork: this community.

“Gene Johnson gave us the canvas and she gave us the frame,” says Pat Badger, Advisor to the Head of School for Arts and Equity. “But what we put on that canvas is up to us.”

20 | prairieschool.com

GRANDPARENTS’ & SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY “Grandparents” might not be a group that immediately come to mind when you think of a school community. However, at Prairie, grandmas and grandpas, nanas and papas, and special grand-friends comprise one of the school’s most engaged – and most philanthropic – constituencies.

This involvement crescendos on Grandparents’ & Special Friends’ Day, the annual celebration welcoming these individuals to campus to learn side-by-side with their grandchildren. This year’s October event was attended by over 400 smiling guests, all of them eager for a glimpse at how their loved ones are thriving.

PARENT SOCIAL Just because you’re a grownup doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a little recess. Every fall, the school – in conjunction with Parents of Prairie (POP) – hosts a special get-together for parents. The catch? No kids allowed. This year’s event was held on a crisp night in November, the hybrid indoor-outdoor greenhouse venue offering the perfect opportunity for parents to get to know one other better, all while their kids were at home (studying, of course).

DIWALI Light over darkness. Good over evil. Knowledge over ignorance. These are the victories Prairie celebrates each Diwali. Recognized by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and

some Buddhists, Diwali has become a cherished part of the Prairie School culture. Every fall, the entire school, Early School through 12th Grade, heads outside for music, reflections, dancing, and fireworks.

CONVOCATION A new school year is always an occasion worthy of celebration. Every fall, the Prairie community comes together to kick off another year of growth and learning at Convocation. This year’s keynote speaker was Sandra Rogers ’82, a successful supply chain executive who was named “One of the Most Influential Women in Corporate America” by Savvy Magazine in 2019.

Following her 2022 retirement from Hillrom, Rogers was named to Northwestern Mutual’s Board of Directors.

Prairie, Rogers told the audience, is a place where you can discover yourself while working together to accomplish great things as a community. Individuality while focusing on the importance of collaboration to achieve a greater good: it’s a balance that Prairie continues to stress.

“Pursue your dreams with curiosity, confidence, and courage,” said Rogers. “My hope is that you will strive to be the same, but different.”

ALUMNI WEEKEND Big picture goal for Prairie’s Alumni Weekend? Cram as much laughter and conversation and connection as possible into a 48-hour window. From the looks of it, things are going pretty well. Alumni Weekend has settled into a steady routine of typically family-friendly events (held both on and off campus) that offer ample opportunities to eat, drink, and be Prairie.

22 | prairieschool.com

The Jack Mitchell Society

Named for The Prairie School’s first Headmaster, the Jack Mitchell Society honors those who have supported the Prairie Fund for five or more consecutive years.

Our entire community appreciates the unwavering loyalty of these donors.

—

Anonymous (2)

Reverends Erik Carlson and

AbbVie, Inc.

The Carpenters

7 Mile Fair, Inc. Mr. Matthew Adamczyk ’10 and Mrs. Abby Gaertig Adamczyk ’10

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Ahlensdorf, Sr. Lois Alexander AmazonSmile

Chris and Virginia Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Matt L. Andis Nijole and Julius Andriusis

Dr. and Mrs. Michael E. Angeline Sever and Andreea Anton

Mr. and Mrs. Gus Antonneau Joy and Jon Aragones

Anthony and Casie Arnone

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Atanasoff

Mr. and Mrs. Dennis R. Axelson Akemi and Darryl Babu ’88

Dr. Manoj Babu and Dr. Sheryn Abraham Patricia Badger Bernoli Baello

John and Mary Baker Jr.

Michael Banco and Hope Heaster Dan and Ann Bankenbush

Andres Baptista and Zaida Puy Arena Mr. and Mrs. Jason L. Barrett Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Barth John ’83 and Jane Batten Mary Jane Baumgardt

Kimberlee Tomczak Carlson

Ms. Kelsey Cassidy

Kristina Gile

John and Terie Carpenter Mr. Rocco Castellano and Dr. Irina Ciubotaru The Chadwick Family

Tony Chen and Crystal Chiu Jenni and Rich Chiapete

Susan and Ferdinand Chiappetta Kylie Christensen

Mr. Patrick Christensen

David and Shawn Clark Richard Coates ’72

Nat and Laura Coffman Craig Cortez

Mr. Jonathan Cushman and Ms. Jennifer Cobb Dr. Marshall Cushman

Meg Rowland Daniels ’82 and John Daniels Daniel and Danelle Davies Ms. Elizabeth Davis Gregory Davis ’82 Roslyn Davis

Sheetal and Ratnang Desai

Kanwal Dhar and Shally Chogtu Tom and Melissa Dreifuerst

Dal and Jacquelyn Drummer

Dr. Barbara Little Earnest ’74 and Mr. Royce Earnest

Stephanie and Steve Benner

Dr. Nichole Elcano

Laura and Rob Bishop

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Blenke

Michael and Kathryn Boero and Family Joan Bolewski

Michael ’99 and Shay ’00 Borzynski John and Constance Boticki Dr. Michael A. Boticki

Mr. and Mrs. Corey Brandt

Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Breiwick Mr. James Broetzmann

Jim and Abby Brzezinski

Andrea Bukacek ’03 and Alan Clark Mark and Cheri Burwell

Shawn and Angie Burwell

Steve and Anne Callaghan Dan and Lauren Carbajal

David and Wallapa Carlson

Dr. Maria Fiocchi

Charles and Alicia Gasser

Dave and Kathy Eberle

The Berkey Family

Dr. Eduardo Garcia-Novelli and

Dick Carpenter

Tony and Tanya Baumgardt Tiffany and Jon Behrends

Donna and Jim Garard

Rachel S. Ehlers and Jamaal Dyess Bill and Renee Elworthy Mr. and Mrs. Joe Fallico Rick and Nicole Farbo

Dr. Therese Fellner and Paul Fiegel Mr. and Mrs. Brian Fenkl

Mr. and Mrs. Massi Ferrentino Ms. Abigail Roger ’12

Ms. Alexandra Fiegel ’07 Rick and Jana Fiegel

Aaron Ford ’96 and Erika Ford ’95 Dr. and Mrs. Robin Ford Kim and Dave Forsman Jerry and Lynn Franke Nate Franke ’99

Jon Fredrickson and

Sarah Friday Fredrickson ’91

John and Abigail French Liz Gabriel ’86

Geoff and Melissa Gallert

Van and Janet Gegas The Ginestel Family

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Glines Jenni Goad Ted Goad

Helga and Bob Gold Rachel Gold Steven Gold

Joann Goodyear

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Grauwels Mike and Jessica Greb

Mari and Jason Grobschmidt

Mr. Austin and Dr. Jolyn Gundlach Marie Haertel

Kevin S. Hall ’85

Scott Harlan and Maureen Kennedy-Harlan Sonja and Doug Haske

Mr. and Mrs. James E. Henderson Ms. Emily A. Henkel Bob and Sally Henzl

Ms. Jeanette A. Hoffman

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hoffman Stephen and Jane Hogan The Holum Family

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel E. Horton Matt and Alyson Horton

Mr. and Mrs. David Horvath

Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Huebsch The Huynh Family

Nancy and Warren Icke Susan Inbusch

Benjamin ’96 and Jenelle Isaacson Tom and Pat Isaacson

Majed and Reem Jandali Peter and Karen Jansson Cynthia Johnson

Dave and Chris Johnson

H. Fisk Johnson, Ph.D. ’75

Jason and Destiny Johnson

Molly Lofquist Johnson and Steve Johnson Pam Johnson ’73

Pat and Katie Johnson Skye Johnson

Andrew Jones

Steve and Cindy Joost

Microsoft Corporation

Tom and Wendy Schaefer

Josephine P. and John J. Louis Foundation

Dottie Moll

Nich and Shannon Schafer

Charles Jorgensen Cymbria Jung ’98

Joseph Kann and Christine Shields Kann

H. William Keland ’73 and Debbie Keland The Kelly Family

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce J. Kelly Brian Ketterer

Mr. Khalaf M. Khalaf and

Mrs. Hadjer K. Abdulnabi

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas King ’78 Jacki Kirt

Dr. Lyndsay N. Knoell and Dr. Wendy M. Knoell Steve and Dana Kohl

Peter and Lisa Koleske

Dennis and Sandy Kontra The Korthase Family

Bernadette and Ray Krivsky Jessica and Brian Krivsky Brianna Kunstman

Ashley and Laura LaBarber Jim and Debbie Ladwig

Mr. and Mrs. Steve LaLonde

Ms. Hannah Lane and Dr. Peter Sattler Brian Langendorf

Gary and Mary Sue Langendorf Amy S. Larsen ’73

The Family of Jolie and Lilie Larson Richard and Tanya Larsen Ms. Diann Lebow

Stephanie Ledvina and Lisa Luchun Mr. and Mrs. Raymond C. Leffler Cathie and John Lehman

Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Leinweber

Craig Leipold and Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74

Shazia Miller ’85 and Sam Miller Steve Mudroch ’06

Greg and Sheryl Mueller

Jim Mueller and Christine Henke Mueller

Dr. Tawfiq Nadi and Mrs. Hoda Matariyeh-Nadi Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Nelson Brendan and Lisa O’Brien

Patrick and Betsie O’Brien

Keith and Melody Owsley Jon and Suzanne Palmen Kathy Palmen

Mark and Dori Panthofer

Dr. John and Becky Mamalakis Joe and Christina Manley

Chris and Kara Peery

Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Pehlivanian Patricia Penman

Zach and Cassie Perkins

Dr. Joshua and Mrs. Christa Pessin Jeff and Missy Peterson Jeff and Kris Philippi Nick and Aliya Pitts

The Posnanski Family

Roberta Puntillo-Jorgensen and Kurt Jorgensen Racine Community Foundation Eric and Lisa Olesen Fund

and Josephine C. Carpenter Scholarship Fund Jeanne Rayne Family Fund

Jeanne L. Rayne

Steve and Jessica Rezmer

Norris and Judy Richardson

Dr. Adrian Rivas and Dr. Jennifer Zeni The Roncone-Harvey Family Melissa and Daniel Ropiak

Lindsay Roskovensky ’02 and Mathieu Roskovensky

Margaret and Mark McDonough

The Ruffo Family Foundation, Inc.

Megan Rowland McGuire ’02

Charles and Judith McManmon Jane and Ronald Means

Deepak and Pooja Mehra

Blaine and Mary Metzger

Garet and Kristin Mianecki

Valerie and Andrew Sprunger

State Farm Insurance - Brian Ketterer

Dr. Elizabeth Nicole Steffensen ’04 and Mr. Ryan Mattsen

Anne and Richard Stoltenberg

Mr. Tristan Pearson ’99 and Dr. Amy Pearson

The Rossi Family

Patrick McGuire and

Chad and Heather Solodio

Christine Pearson

Linda and Mark Pawlak

Mike and Alex Marz

Steve Maurer and Amy Giles-Maurer

Jim and Joyce Smith

Dr. Rebecca Stohler ’90 and Julianne Jamel

John and Carol Rezmer

Carol and Robert Malik

Manogaran Shimp ’86

Fletcher Paulsen

Alfred and Kelly Longoria

Mark and Becky Madsen

Elizabeth Pehlivanian Shaw ’86

Toni Alicia Jackson Smith ’84

The Osiecki Family

Jim and Jane Raufus

Mrs. Dorothy MacVicar

Dennis Shaw and

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew R. Oscarson

Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Onyon

Jake Lipor

James and Jessica Lynott

Mrs. Suzanne Gasiorkiewicz Selmo ’98

Mr. and Mrs. Klay Shannon

The Smith Family

Racine Community Foundation - William and

John and Jodi Lopez

Mr. Brian Selmo ’96 and

Mr. and Mrs. Eric A. Olesen

Diane and John Oakland

Mr. and Mrs. Don Libby

Elizabeth Long

Gary and Sharon Schonert

Mr. Douglas Shimp and Mrs. Shakila

Racine Community Foundation - Richard M.

Connie and Joseph Lipari

Vicki and Ted Schmitz

Robyn O’Brien

The Lescher Family Susan Lescher

Brad Schafer

John S. Rowland II ’75

Richard Ruffo ’83 and Diane Ruffo Al and Patty Ruud

Chris Ruud ’89 and Chantil Ruud Mr. and Mrs. David Santalucia SC Johnson Giving, Inc.

Andy and Leila Schaefer Helen Schaefer

Robert and Sylvia Stohler

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Stoner Kathryn L. Swanson

Kenneth Swanson and Barbara Hoppa Swanson The Tao Family

Rick Taterzzynski and Izzi Buikus

Patrick Tews and Elizabeth Morack Thrivent Financial

Dr. Jim and Mrs. Debbie Tierney Erin and Ryan Tollaksen Jane and Joe Truka

Mr. and Mrs. David and Sarah Turek Jenny Ulbricht

Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Ulrich Mr. and Mrs. Tim Ulrich

Dr. and Mrs. Vahag Vartanian

Mr. and Mrs. J. Joseph Veranth ’80 Mr. Armen A. Vidian ’88 Helmut Wagner

David and Rosemary Wait

Eileen Walter and Gregg Baumann Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Weaver

Drs. Jean Weaver and Francis Peterson Rebecca L. Wheeler

Ben and Katie White John and Jodi White

John and Jenifer Wietfeldt Eric and Marcia Wilks

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Winnen Ms. Alison Wojahn

Paul and Paula Wokwicz Holly Wolf-Mattick

Mr. Jeffrey Wolf and Dr. Lisa Wolf Jerry and Mary Wolf Chao-Ying Yan

Fred Young and Sandra Harrisson Young ’70 Jim Zielinski

Ms. Margaret Zimmermann ’14

Alumni

We appreciate the support of our alumni, who know firsthand the power of a Prairie education. Thank you for ensuring that today’s students continue to experience excellence both within and beyond the classroom.

—

1970 - 1979

Armen A. Vidian ’88

Jim Kettinger ’06

Chris Ruud ’89

Jordan Rowland ’06

James A. Kurz ’70

Carey Harris Fry ’89

Katherine Little Vollmer ’71

1990 - 1999

Sandra Harrisson Young ’70 Mark M. Chulew ’72 Richard Coates ’72 Norma Wood ’72 Pam Johnson ’73

S. Curtis Johnson ’73

H. William Keland ’73 Amy S. Larsen ’73

Barbara Little Earnest ’74

Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74

Carolyn Gittings Edwards ’75 H. Fisk Johnson, Ph.D. ’75 John S. Rowland II ’75 Stephen Hartig ’76

Winifred Johnson-Marquart ’77 Seth Bigelow ’78

Richard C. Gorton ’78 Thomas King ’78

Georgia Bruch McDonough ’78 Peter Rayne ’79

1980 - 1989

Anonymous (1)

Rebecca Stohler ’90

Wade De Armond ’92

Matthew Adamczyk ’10

Abby Gaertig Adamczyk ’10

Michael Stohler ’92

Bennett Harris ’10

Joyce Ramos Barnes ’93 Ms. Lekshmi Venu ’93 Amy Karegeannes ’94

Samantha Comaris ’95 Erika Ford ’95

Andrew Isaacson ’95 Rebecca Perry ’95 Aaron Ford ’96

Benjamin Isaacson ’96

Shana M. McCombs Piaskoski ’96 Brian Selmo ’96

Jennifer Betournay ’97 Cymbria Jung ’98

Suzanne Gasiorkiewicz Selmo ’98

Michael J. Degenhart ’80

Nate Franke ’99

John Anderson ’81

Thomas J. Rodgers II ’99

Michael Borzynski ’99

J. Joseph Veranth ’80

Tristan Pearson ’99

Meg Rowland Daniels ’82

2000 - 2009

Helen Arkema ’83 John Batten ’83

Julie A. Ericson ’83 Richard Ruffo ’83 Joel Shafer ’83

Christopher L. Dean ’84

Toni Alicia Jackson Smith ’84 Tony Veranth ’84 Kevin S. Hall ’85

Shazia Miller ’85 Liz Gabriel ’86

Elizabeth Pehlivanian Shaw ’86 Shakila Manogaran Shimp ’86 Kevin Stouwie ’87 Pat Wagner ’87

Darryl Babu ’88

Brian Glines ’08

2010 - 2019

Mark Ciotola ’80

Sandra R. Rogers ’82

Alexandra Fiegel ’07

W. David Perez ’91

Anonymous (1)

Mr. Ricky John Gease ’82

Katie Axelson ’07

Sarah Friday Fredrickson ’91

Sogyong Auh ’99

Gregory Davis ’82

Steve Mudroch ’06

Shay Borzynski ’00

Shannon Massman ’01

Megan Rowland McGuire ’02 Lindsay Roskovensky ’02 Andrea Bukacek ’03

Norissa Miller DeVillers ’03 Erica Lynn Helland ’03

Christopher Adam Holterman ’03 Michael S. Joost ’03 Kara Ohmstead ’03

Meg Richardson ’03

Rebeccah Steffensen Schmidt ’03 Austin Schultz ’04

Jennifer Pichelman Sinnen ’04

Elizabeth Nicole Steffensen ’04 Mara Bijold ’05

Kimberly Rybicki Olesen ’05 Peter Olesen ’05

Connor Leipold ’10

Andrew Pettibone ’10 Nolan Stracke ’10 Becky Leffler ’11

Curtie Leipold ’11 Abigail Rogers ’12

Nicholas Schneider ’14

Margaret Zimmermann ’14 Mateo Garcia-Novelli ’15 Fordy Leipold ’15

Trista Deuster ’16 David Reske ’16

Sammie Woodward ’16 Kodakara Fletcher ’18 Tarkan Fletcher ’20

Emma P. Knoell ’20 Rowan Fletcher ’22

Parents

Family partnerships are a cornerstone of the Prairie experience, and our community is grateful to the current parents who demonstrated their philanthropic commitment by making a gift to the school in 2022-2023.

— Anonymous (8)

The Chadwick Family

Jacob and Kristin Gunia

Jeramie and Shahla Anders

Tony Chen and Crystal Chiu

Nils-Holger and Jessica Gutjahr

Mr. and Mrs. Akil I. Ajmeri Chris and Virginia Anderson Nijole and Julius Andriusis

Dr. and Mrs. Michael E. Angeline Sever and Andreea Anton Joy and Jon Aragones

Anthony and Casie Arnone

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Atanasoff Graham and Jennifer Ault

Akemi and Darryl Babu ’88

Dr. Manoj Babu and Dr. Sheryn Abraham Robert and Heather Bahillo

Mr. Mark Baker and Ms. Sylvie Travard Dr. Dana Ballewske and Angela Dellise The Barden Family

Mr. and Mrs. Jason L. Barrett Bobbie Barrows

Andres Baptista and Zaida Puy Arena Tressa and Michael Bates John ’83 and Jane Batten

Tony and Tanya Baumgardt Nathan and Nicole Bayer

Tiffany and Jon Behrends The Berkey Family The Binder Family

Laura and Rob Bishop Asewanetta Bonner

Leandro Bordagaray and Maria Viana Nate and Mimi Boren

Michael ’99 and Shay ’00 Borzynski

The Chairez Family

Kevin and Kelly Christensen Kylie Christensen

Kyong Chong and Ahreum Jung David and Shawn Clark

Shawn and Samantha Comaris ’95 Brad and Kathy Cooper Craig Cortez

Daniel and Danelle Davies Jeff and Erin Decker

Sheetal and Ratnang Desai

Aniruddha and Aditi Deshpande Kanwal Dhar and Shally Chogtu

Adam Dillon and Michelle Braun Andrew and Ally Docksey

Mr. Dhaval Doshi and Mrs. Dhruti Joshi Rachel S. Ehlers and Jamaal Dyess Dr. Nichole Elcano

Joel Espinoza and Melinda Ferg-Espinoza Rick and Nicole Farbo

Mr. and Mrs. Brian Farr Amanda Felkey

Dr. Therese Fellner and Paul Fiegel Mr. and Mrs. Massi Ferrentino Ty Ferrill

Yazi and Simone Fletcher

Aaron Ford ’96 and Erika Ford ’95 Scott and Charmaine Foster Jon Fredrickson and

Sarah Friday Fredrickson ’91

The Gutenkunst Family

Mario and Claudia Gvuzd Marie Haertel

Sara Luther Hagerman and Dan Hagerman Ben and Jamie Hamilton

Dana and Michael Handrow Josh and Erin Hareng

Scott Harlan and Maureen Kennedy-Harlan TJ and Amber Hearn The Heredia Family Jose Heredia

Brian Hervat and Carolyn Kirkby Val and Alena Himin

Mr. and Mrs. Collin Hirsch Ethan and Elizabeth Hoff

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Hoffman Stephen and Jane Hogan Ed and Jody Holle

Matt and Alyson Horton

Scott and Kathryn Huggins The Huynh Family

Benjamin ’96 and Jenelle Isaacson Abby and Lee Jaramillo Pete and Paula Jedlicka

Jason and Destiny Johnson Josh Johnson

Pat and Katie Johnson Skye Johnson

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Joost ’03 The Kane Family

Dr. Michael A. Boticki

John and Abigail French

Mr. and Mrs. Jamie Breiwick

Jim and Jennifer Gavigan

Mr. Warren Kekahbah and Ms. Melissa Jahnke

Van and Janet Gegas

Mr. Khalaf M. Khalaf and

The Breit Family

Jim and Abby Brzezinski

Andrea Bukacek ’03 and Alan Clark Michelle and Anthony Burch Shawn and Angie Burwell Zach and Rebecca Byrne

Alexandre Camanho and Viviane Cordeiro Dan and Lauren Carbajal

Reverends Erik Carlson and

Kimberlee Tomczak Carlson

Patricia Carnevale The Carpenters

Mr. Rocco Castellano and Dr. Irina Ciubotaru

26 | prairieschool.com

Charles and Alicia Gasser Paul and Heidi Gaylord Alyson Gerdes

Mr. George Karegeannes and

Mrs. Amy Karegeannes ’94

The Kelly Family

Mrs. Hadjer K. Abdulnabi

The Ginestel Family

Dr. Elizabeth King

Ted Goad

Dr. Lyndsay N. Knoell and Dr. Wendy M. Knoell

Jenni Goad

Adam and Andrea Godson Mike and Jessica Greb

Jason and Karen Greenwood Steve Grinde

Mari and Jason Grobschmidt

Mr. Austin and Dr. Jolyn Gundlach

Rick and Heather KingenSmith Steve and Dana Kohl The Korthase Family

Rick and Lauren Koston

Thomas and Rebekah Kowalski Jessica and Brian Krivsky The Kumar Family

Rakesh Kumar and Reena Singh John and Bev Kuvshinikov

Ashley and Laura LaBarber

Mike Ohmstead and Kara Ohmstead ’03 Dr. Kimberly Rybicki Olesen ’05 and Mr. Peter Olesen ’05

Matthew and Allyson Schrader Gregg and Jennifer Schwark

Dr. Brian Schwartz and Rachael Randolph

Lisa Laitinen and Andrew Fellner

The Olson-Goldman Family

Brian Langendorf

Kevin and Heather Orth

The Shepard Family

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Ostergaard

Bill and Ali Sluis

Mr. and Mrs. Steve LaLonde Richard and Tanya Larsen Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Lawler The Leal Family

Stephanie Ledvina and Lisa Luchun The Lescher Family The Lieb Family

Alfred and Kelly Longoria John and Jodi Lopez

Mick and Missy Lucareli The Lucht Family

James and Jessica Lynott

Robert and Cheryl MacDonald Bree Mahone

Dr. John and Becky Mamalakis Joe and Christina Manley

Ken Marek and Jackie Hung Joe and Sara Marshall

Juan and Raeleah Martinez

Shannon Massman ’01 and Ryan Massman Joseph Mathew

Steve Maurer and Amy Giles-Maurer Kelly Mayer

Luciano Mazon and Michelle Maiochi Mazon The McGaughey Family Patrick McGuire and

Megan Rowland McGuire ’02

Kristin McManmon

Mark McNeely and Nuria Ortiz Carolyn McNeil

Mr. and Mrs. David J. McPhee Deepak and Pooja Mehra

Garet and Kristin Mianecki

Mr. Andrew Mielke and Ms. Casey Latus Guy and Mona Milinski The Miller Family

Sam and Liz Modder

Norman and Lynne Monson

Pedro Pablo Morcillo and Diana Diaz

Pedro Paulo Mosquim and Fabiola Goes Zach and Erika Motsch Josh and Sheila Mrotek Anderson Müller and

Helaine Edwiges Peixoto Müller

Dr. Tawfiq Nadi and Mrs. Hoda Matariyeh-Nadi Thierno Ndao and Ney Ndosi Brett and Lindsie Nelson The Nogueira Family

Paul Nowak and Elizabeth Spalla Brendan and Lisa O’Brien Corey and Laura Oakland

Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Onyon Mr. and Mrs. Matthew R. Oscarson Jon and Suzanne Palmen

Mr. and Mrs. Sal Pappalardo Seth and Andrea Pearson

Mr. Tristan Pearson ’99 and Dr. Amy Pearson Chris and Kara Peery

Rachel Pena and Ryan Chadek

E. Rodney Perry and Ursula Hamilton-Perry Dr. Joshua and Mrs. Christa Pessin Mr. and Mrs. Greg Peterson

Matthew and Monte Peterson Rick and Teri Pias Elena Pica

Nick and Aliya Pitts

Mr. and Mrs. Brad Placzek The Polzin Family

The Posnanski Family

Roberta Puntillo-Jorgensen and Kurt Jorgensen Robert and Samantha Quam Asad and Rabia Rahman

Mr. Lucas Raimondi and Mrs. Soledad Pasman Chris and Michelle Reber Raquel Reed

Michael and Kelly Regner

Russell and Sarah Reimann Steve and Jessica Rezmer

Sudip and Amrita Ringwala

Dr. Adrian Rivas and Dr. Jennifer Zeni Roy and Vanessa Rivera

The Roncone-Harvey Family Melissa and Daniel Ropiak The Rossi Family

Jordan Rowland ’06

Nicholas and Kelly Rozzoni

Braden and Cristin Rudolph Nick and Jen Ruetz Melissa Ruta

Mr. and Mrs. David H. Saaski The Saenim Family

Mauricio and Elizabeth Salazar

Edwin Sandle and Nicole D’Amour Mr. and Mrs. David Santalucia Andy and Leila Schaefer

Tom and Wendy Schaefer

Nich and Shannon Schafer Randy and Birute Schlecht Bryan and Alicia Schmidt Vicki and Ted Schmitz

Mr. and Mrs. Todd Schober

Dennis Shaw and

Elizabeth Pehlivanian Shaw ’86

Jennifer Pichelman Sinnen ’04 and Dan Sinnen The Smith Family

Chad and Heather Solodio Paul and Christine Spang Neil and Ashley Staeck The Stahl Family

Michael and Shadia Stewart The Smith Family

Todd and Laura Stoner The Stout Family

Robert and Andrea Styles The Sullivan Family

The Svendsen Family

Daniel and Abby Tajnai The Tao Family

Drs. Tatyana Taranukha and Ryan Doyle Tameka Tate

Patrick Tews and Elizabeth Morack Dean Tiboris and Mary Ballard Erin and Ryan Tollaksen Lisa Trautman

Mr. and Mrs. David and Sarah Turek Andrew and Jennifer Twist

Jenny Ulbricht and Greg York Mr. and Mrs. Paul T. Ulrich Mr. and Mrs. Tim Ulrich

Darren and Debora Utley

Daniel and Dawn Vaccaro

Ryan and Jamie VanDeLoo Heather Vanoss

Dr. and Mrs. Vahag Vartanian Dan and Christina Wade

Mr. and Mrs. Steven Waite Brian Warner

Allan and Katie Wassil

Andrew and Ali Wassweiler

Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Weaver

Drs. Jean Weaver and Francis Peterson AJ and Shawn Weis

Ben and Katie White

Paul and Paula Wokwicz Holly Wolf-Mattick

Anthony Wooden and Rebecca Perry ’95 David Woodhams and Rachelle Yecke Tony and Ann Yeung

Mrs. Jimin Youn and Mr. Sean Youn Jing Yu and Eric Chien Casey and Lisa Yunker Dr. Adam Ziemann

Grandparents

The Prairie community always appreciates the philanthropy of our grandparents. Those listed below made a charitable gift to our school in the 2022-2023 year.

— Anonymous (1)

Mr. Radhi Abdulnabi and

Ms. Fatma-Zohra Nedjari

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Ahlensdorf, Sr. Lois Alexander

Mr. and Mrs. Matt L. Andis

James Cauley and Brenda Andrews Dan and Maureen Angeline

Mr. and Mrs. Gus Antonneau Mona Archibald

Ken and Jan Arndt

Mike and Debbie Ault

Rodney and Barb Baerbock Jane Baldassi

Dennis and Kim Ballewske Mrs. Gloria S. Batten

Mary Jane Baumgardt

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Bayer Ricky and Patty Begotka

Thomas and Judith Benko

Stephanie and Steve Benner

Kenneth and Susan Bergquist John and Janice Bernez William M. Black III

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Blenke

Gerhardt and Michelle Bobzien Michael and Karen Bochek Frank and Sharon Boerner

Michael and Kathryn Boero and Family Ms. Barbara Borthwick

John and Constance Boticki Tom and Sally Brown Lynn Bukacek

Mark and Cheri Burwell

Mr. and Mrs. Orey R. Buzzelli Pat and Connie Byrne Anne Cafferty

Steve and Anne Callaghan

David and Wallapa Carlson Delores Casebolt

Mr. and Mrs. Tony Castellano

Susan and Ferdinand Chiappetta Cynthia Christensen

Dennis and Kay Christensen Sandra Contardi-Rice

Mr. and Mrs. John Corcoran Mike D’Amour Roslyn Davis

28 | prairieschool.com

Rhonda Deneka

Mr. and Mrs. David Horvath

Theresa Dicello

Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Huebsch

Orlando and Jeanie Dennis Lee and Bev Doyle

Dal and Jacquelyn Drummer Gee Dujua

Dave and Kathy Eberle Dan and Raeann Eeg

Bill and Renee Elworthy

Norm and Mari Erickson Mr. and Mrs. Steve Foltz

Dr. and Mrs. Robin Ford Kurt and Lisa Frank

Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Fredenburgh Lynn and Dennis Fredrickson Bonnie B. Friday

Mark and Kathleen Galica Donna and Jim Garard Marianthi Gegas

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Glines Barb Gold

Helga and Bob Gold Rachel Gold Steven Gold

Joann Goodyear

Martin and Dianne Gorbaty Glenn and Karen Gorsiski James and Jill Gottsacker

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Grauwels

Dennis and Sandra Grinde

Scott and Pat Grobschmidt Dorothy Gutenkunst

Dave and Debbie Hamilton

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harlan Kristi Harvey

Sonja and Doug Haske

Steve and Kathy Hatch Jeff and Martha Hawes Jane and Tom Hearn Therese Heller

Mr. and Mrs. James E. Henderson Cheryl Henkel Peggy Hirsch

Bernardine Hoff

Ms. Jeanette A. Hoffman John and Cheryl Hogan

David and Virginia Holle

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel E. Horton

Jeff and Lesli Hrouda

George and Linda Huggins Tom and Pat Isaacson

Steve and Diana Jacoby Cynthia Johnson Pam Johnson ’73

Mr. S. Curtis Johnson ’73 Steve and Cindy Joost Charles Jorgensen

Mr. Nick Karegeannes

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce J. Kelly Ron and Dottie Kingen W. Ann Kirkwood

Mr. and Mrs. Ted Knier

William and Gale Knight Melanie Knoell

Joseph and Ramona Kocjan Joe and Rachael Kolb

Larry and Cindy Kornack

Bernadette and Ray Krivsky Ms. Sandra Krsko Megan Krueger

Mr. and Mrs. David J. LaLonde

Gary and Mary Sue Langendorf Dennis and Leslie Lantz Laurine Leanna

Ms. Diann Lebow

Dennis and JoAnn Leeder Michael and Mary Lees

Cathie and John Lehman

Mr. and Mrs Bruce Lehmkuhl Susan Lescher

Mr. and Mrs. Don Libby Janice Limperis

Connie and Joseph Lipari Mrs. Dorothy MacVicar

Mark and Becky Madsen Dolores Maki

Carol and Robert Malik

Dave and Maggie Manley Mary Manley

Judy and Dennis McDonald Andrew and Gail McIntosh

Charles and Judith McManmon Jane and Ronald Means

Blaine and Mary Metzger

Les and Margaret Miller

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Regner

Laverne Spang

William and Peggy Moore

Norris and Judy Richardson

Mr. Tony Stevens and Mrs. Jean Stevens

Judy Mills

Calvin and Leslie Motsch Donna Nash

Sally Natchek

Bradford and Sara Nelson

Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Norton Michael O’Brien Robyn O’Brien

Mike and Connie O’Neal Diane and John Oakland Bonnie Ohmstead

Mr. and Mrs. Eric A. Olesen Jill Oscarson

Kathy Palmen

Linda and Mark Pawlak Christine Pearson

Lee and Patricia Pearson Tom and Millie Peck

Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Pehlivanian Bruce and Kathleen Pessin Mr. Francis Peterson

Jeff and Kris Philippi

Mr. and Mrs. James A. Pitts Roger and Sue Placzek Ms. Karen Poppy Naoko Puntillo

Mrs. Tori Rader

Jessie and Linda Ramos

Robert and Carolyn Rashleger

John and Carol Rezmer

Nikunj and Kirti Ringwala Patricia Rojo Tom Ropiak

Wendie Rose

John S. Rowland II ’75 Christine Rudolph

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Ruetz Dr. Ray Rybicki

Peter and Doris Saenim Bob and Sue Samer

Armando and Leticia Sanchez Helen Schaefer Brad Schafer

Nancy Schmidt

Marilyn and Bill Scholz

Gary and Sharon Schonert Tom and Lynda Schrader

Mr. and Mrs. Peter Schwalbe Sybil Shepard

Mark and Sherry Sinnen Helen and Joost Sluis

Mr. and Mrs. Brian E. Smith Doug and Frieda Smith Jim and Joyce Smith Kathy Smith Lucy Smith

Sandra Smith Herb Spalla

Judy and Steve Stead

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Stoner Steve and Marsha Stoner

Warren and Sheila Straus

Dr. and Mrs. Alistair Sundareson Paul Suprak

Joe and Pam Tajnai

Trygve Thoreson and Connie Fletcher Gus and Linda Tiboris

Dr. Jim and Mrs. Debbie Tierney Terry and Suzann Toll Patty Tollaksen

Jane and Joe Truka

Joe and Cindy Twist Kathleen Ulbricht

Allan and Susan Unger

Michael and Mary Vandegriffe Larry and Karen VanDeLoo Helmut Wagner

Ken and Pamela Wagner

David and Rosemary Wait Jo Anne Watt

Dianne Weaver

John and Jodi White Tracy Williams

Jacqueline Wojtanowski Jerry and Mary Wolf

Jeannie Wolicki-Nichols John and Barb Zeni

Why i support prairie I personally love to give to Prairie – both in time and treasure – because I know that a great school not only helps my own children develop lives that will be meaningful to them, but builds a community of individuals who are civic-minded and creative. That spills out of the walls of Prairie into Wisconsin and beyond and we will all be better for it. Volunteering helps connect me to the other great Prairie parents – as we know, it is helpful to have a village when raising children and I’m thankful the staff and families at Prairie are part of mine.

ERIN HARENG

Parent of Taryn ’30 and Tegan ’30 Premiere Volunteer Golf Classic & Dinner Volunteer

The 26th Annual Golf Classic & Dinner Prairie’s Golf Classic & Dinner is a long-standing tradition that, over the past twenty-six years, has raised over $1.6 million for the school’s scholarship

program. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers and donors, the 2022 event netted over $125,000 in support of deserving students who would otherwise be unable to afford the full cost of tuition.

—

2022 COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Kevin and Noel Cookman CRB Insurance Agency

Brian Langendorf - Chair Jason Atanasoff

Peter Olesen ’05

Brian Glines ’08

Chris Ruud ’89

Alan Clark

Krystyn Hirsch Dave Johnson

Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home

Richard Ruffo ’83

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Fallico

Brian Ketterer

Mr. Zachary Ferraro

Fiduciary Management, Inc. Rick and Jana Fiegel

4J

First American Bank

Pamela Alberico

Van and Janet Gegas

Associated Bank

Mr. Brian Glines ’08 and Mrs. Sarah Glines

Michael ’99 and Shay ’00 Borzynski

Puntillo Camilli & Hughes, S.C.

Boston Consulting Group, Inc.

Gould Dentistry, LLC

Bukacek Construction Group, Inc

Mr. Austin and Dr. Jolyn Gundlach

Butcher & Barrel Gastropub

Stephanie Hanson

Carlson Racine Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc.

Ken Harris

Carpetland USA Flooring Center

Matt and Alyson Horton

Carriage House Pedal Tours

Johnson Financial Group

David and Shawn Clark

Johnson Outdoors, Inc.

Richard Coates ’72

H. Fisk Johnson, Ph.D. ’75

Coffman Family Scholarship Fund

Mr. S. Curtis Johnson ’73

Julie and Jim Coffman

Mr. Michael Marquart

Kann Family Charitable Fund

Dave and Julie Feiler

EVENT SPONSORS & DONORS

Mrs. Winifred Johnson-Marquart ’77 and

Educators Credit Union

Carolyn Gittings Edwards ’75

Jeff Wolf

Skye Johnson

Joseph Kann and Christine Shields Kann Kenosha Kingfish

Knoell Family Dentistry

Dr. Lyndsay N. Knoell and Dr. Wendy M. Knoell Brian Langendorf

Gary and Mary Sue Langendorf

The Law Office of Terry Chapko

Connor ’10 and Veronica Leipold

Craig Leipold and Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74 Curtie Leipold ’11 Fordy Leipold ’15

Lighthouse Wealth Partners Lincoln Churchill Advisors Majic Productions

Marlo, Incorporated

Steve Maurer and Amy Giles-Maurer Patrick McGuire and

Megan Rowland McGuire ’02

Why i support prairie I am glad to be part of a community that focuses on teaching our next generation the importance of philanthropy and kindness. Prairie is providing an exceptional foundation for our children to make this world a better place and I am happy to contribute my time and money to support the dedication that each and every person at the school provides to our children.

The Prairie Fund and the Golf Classic are both very worthy causes and I am lucky to be able to dedicate time to helping our community grow stronger while teaching my own children about the importance of giving back.

KRYSTYN HIRSCH 30 | prairieschool.com

Parent of Jackson ’31, Cooper ’33, Brooklyn ’34, and Carter ’36 Primary School Co-Chair, Parent Prairie Fund Co-Chair, Golf Classic & Dinner

Why i support prairie I feel strongly about supporting Prairie philanthropically and through volunteer service because there was a time in my children’s early childhood when it was financially difficult for us.

Both our boys were in public school and we were told they had potential for growth with the right resources and staff. Unfortunately, we were also told that the school they were attending could not provide either. Although financing their Prairie education was a significant sacrifice, it became apparent early on that is was the best decision we could have made.

We greatly benefitted from the financial aid we received the first six years; by the time they were in Upper School we were able to pay the full tuition. However, I will never forget the generosity, assistance, and support that our family received from The Prairie School. Moreover, both boys thrived. In their senior years, Andrew received the Motto Award and Adam received the Weidner Award for their academic and leadership improvement.

It is for these reasons I pledge to the Prairie Fund as well as volunteer as Co-Chair for the Golf Classic. I have also instilled the importance of giving back to Prairie in both boys, regardless of their financial situation, throughout the rest of their lives.

BRIAN LANGENDORF

Parent of Andrew ’20 and Adam ’23 Advisor to the Board of Trustees Co-Chair, Golf Classic & Dinner

Pedro Pablo Morcillo and Diana Diaz

Robertson Ryan and Associates

O & H Danish Bakery

John S. Rowland II ’75

Norco Manufacturing The Osiecki Family Patricia Penman

Jeff and Missy Peterson

Mr. Andrew Pettibone ’10 Nick and Aliya Pitts

PNC Financial Services Group The Polzin Family

Roberta Puntillo-Jorgensen and Kurt Jorgensen Quarles & Brady LLP

William Reid ’73 and Nicole Reid

Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, S.C. Robert W. Baird & Co.

Rocco Castellano Design Studio

Chirag Shah

Mr. Douglas Shimp and

Mrs. Shakila Manogaran Shimp ’86

RSM US LLP

Southport Engineered Systems

Richard Ruffo ’83 and Diane Ruffo

SU Group LLC

The Ruffo Family Foundation Russ Darrow Group

Ruud Family Foundation

Chris Ruud ’89 and Chantil Ruud SC Johnson

SC Johnson Giving, Inc.

State Farm Insurance - Brian Ketterer Tom and Wendy Schaefer

Austin Schultz ’04 and Sean Radford Senior Helpers of Racine

Kevin Stouwie ’87

The Sullivan Family Tabak Law, LLC Twin Disc, Inc.

Vrakas CPAs and Advisors Kevin and Liz Will

Wintrust Private Client

WisNova Innovative Dental Specialists Mr. Jeffrey Wolf and Dr. Lisa Wolf Zimmerman Architectural Studio

SAYING THANKS

— By Brendan O’Brien

32 | prairieschool.com

For those who know Tim Ellis ’77, the gesture – while uncommonly thoughtful – did not come as a surprise.

On November 9th, Prairie held its annual Veterans Day

cclebration. Jamie Breiwick, Instrumental Music Teacher, played America the Beautiful. Middle School Head Kathy

Boero served as emcee, welcoming Prairie parents – and US

Army Majors – Maribel and Matt Ostergaard. Current seniors

Prior to his retirement in 2020, Ellis spent thirty-two years coaching, teaching, and advising at Prairie. If there was an

after-hours co-curricular on campus, particularly one involving a ball or a net, you could bet he would be there cheering.

Still is, in fact. If you were at a boys’ soccer game this fall and looked to the west, there’s a good chance you saw him there

leaning against the fence in one of his trademark track suits.

Zack Behrends and Nick Peterson, both of whom are seeking

A leader who exudes a quiet confidence, Ellis was never one

as greeters.

he was content to watch the ceremony from the periphery and

acceptance into service academies following graduation, served

It was a festive, meaningful affair, one where Prairie took

the opportunity to thank former faculty member and Prairie

to seek the spotlight. The same was true on November 9th, as

accept his applause with little more than a wave to the students in attendance.

alumnus Tim Ellis ’77 for his recent gift that allowed for the

Thank you for all you’ve done for this community,

installation of a permanent plaque honoring Prairie graduates

appreciation for those often unsung heroes who leave campus

revitalization of the area around Prairie’s flagpole, as well as the who go on to serve in the armed forces.

“Mr. Ellis remains an active member of the Prairie community, eager to support our students in any way he can,” said Boero.

“Today, we recognize his recent philanthropic efforts – this beautiful veterans’ memorial you see before you.”

Mr. Ellis. We now add to the list this gift, a sign of respect and to defend our country.

FEELING FRIE FOR PRAIRIE STUDENTS IN KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 8TH GRADE, SUBJECTS LIKE ENGLISH, MATH, AND SCIENCE AREN’T THE ONLY FOUNDATIONAL CONCEPTS WORTHY OF STUDY. — By Brendan O’Brien At the beginning of any given semester, Middle School students new to

with a plethora of data pointing to the necessity of our education system

positions behind black metal stands, and fearlessly attempt to make music

Middle School Head Kathy Boero first met with Joy and Julie in 2019

the world of percussion file into Jamie Breiwick’s band room, assume their on the horn or flute or drum of their choosing.

“Making music” in this case is somewhat of an operative term.

This is Introduction to Band and if the notes sound a bit peculiar the first

few weeks, well, that’s the point. The expectation is not that the next Charlie

incorporating social and emotional character development into classrooms.” via Zoom. On the hunt for a more intentional and expansive curriculum

to replace the Second Step programming Prairie had been using, Boero – joined on that initial call by Primary School Head Susan Holum and 1st

Grade teacher Marcia Wilks – came away from that meeting knowing she had found what she was looking for.

Parker is here getting their start – although he or she certainly could be –

“Middle School needed something to assist the kids in developing life and

– although some certainly will. One of the main goals of Introduction to

few programs and there really isn’t one better aligned with our mission here

nor that all of these new musicians will continue with band in Upper School Band is simply encouraging students to try something new – and get better.

Pick a lesson, and you’ll see this pattern repeat itself every semester all over campus. Learning how to calculate an angle or conjugate Spanish verbs.

Studying buoyancy or understanding the finer points of what makes an

leadership skills that would be taught intentionally. We looked at quite a

at Prairie,” says Boero. “Susan and Marcia sat in on that first Zoom simply because they were interested in learning more, and they left intent on bringing the program to Primary School.”

outstanding longform essay.

FROM SEEDS TO BLOSSOMS

Or when it comes to Prairie’s Friendzy curriculum, how to manage your

•

Help kids discover personal strengths

•

Help kids manage emotions

•

Teach kids how to cultivate empathy

•

Provide kids with relationship building skills

•

Support a positive well-being

emotions and how to be a good friend.

Friendzy was started in 2012 by a pair of moms and teachers, Joy Roberts and Julie Widman, who saw a need for a curriculum that helped students understand and work through what they were feeling.

“In the process of raising our own children we saw a crisis unfolding,”

they say on Friendzy’s website. “In 2012, 50% of us began packing around smartphones which has created the most technologically connected and

most socially disconnected generation that has ever existed. We got curious

on how we could equip a generation of kids to be really good friends. As we began to explore how, we realized this social deficiency is well researched

34 | prairieschool.com

Friendzy’s curriculum is rooted in these five overarching goals. While

it’s impossible to argue the importance of putting in the work required

to become a better human, that effort is amplified even further when it

happens alongside your people, the friends you sit with at lunch and the grown-ups tasked with your instruction.

“Middle School teachers are responsible for this,” says Boero. “Every F Day

we dedicate time to Friendzy. In a lot of schools this is something taught by

a counselor who goes class to class. Here, our teachers teach it. Many of them have told me how this curriculum helps them in their adult lives as well.”

NDZY A consumable journal filled with prompts and concepts is the foundation of the work. Think of it as a diary with directions. However, if the journal is Friendzy’s heart, an impressive collection of ever-

changing resources are its senses: the ways students and educators can put these lessons into practice.

“Friendzy remains fresh and current. If one resource doesn’t fit with an advisory a teacher can access an online portal and see hundreds of videos or topics that, if they have a class that might benefit from these things, provides access to hundreds of resources.”

WITH THE STRENGTH OF A SOUND FOUNDATION Gene Johnson was never shy about why she wanted to start this school: she wanted Prairie to be

atypical in its approach to community, wanted a school that welcomed any and every family hungry for an education that not only stressed the importance of exploring, questioning, and creating, but that also taught children the importance of caring, collaborating, and compassion.

“All of this is so connected with the mission that Mrs. Johnson established when she created this friendships, but more importantly it’s developing strategies for being respectful to people who aren’t

GROWING BETTER, TOGETHER

yourself ? How do you forgive yourself when you make a mistake?”

Ubuntu. It’s an ancient African word that

school,” says Boero. “We’re not looking for anyone to fit into any kind of mold. It’s developing

your friends. How do we treat others? How do you value people who are different? How do you treat

translates to humanity to others. It was

IN CONCERT WITH ONE ANOTHER

also one of the Primary School’s slogans of the month earlier this fall. Every

month, at every community meeting, a

It’s amazing the progress that is made when we put in the work. Every semester, those disparate

catchphrase rooted in Friendzy-themed

sometime around Thanksgiving. The group learns the importance of playing together, and while they

Then the students have conversations and

sounds exploding from Mr. Breiwick’s band room in August become smoother, softer, more in tune

concepts is unveiled to the students.

might not achieve perfect harmony, their progress is both pleasant and undeniable.

participate in projects designed to bring

It’s hard work to play the trumpet - and being a good friend, doing the right thing, asking the

idea. After all, as the Ubuntu translation

difficult question can be hard sometimes, too. But if you’re prepared, if you’ve put in the work, those difficult situations become just a little bit easier.

“Middle School is interesting because they’re developing their social awareness,” says Boero. “So

being around people who are like you feels good. But Friendzy pushes kids to think outside of that

and to value being together in community – it’s safe for you to be you, and it’s safe for me to be me.”

everyone together around the chosen goes – I am because we are.

SAVE THE DATE: 36 | prairieschool.com

APRIL 27, 2024

Prairie is committed to enrolling the most talented and deserving

When you attend Premiere, you are spending the evening not simply

fund allows us to support families who may not be able to consider

singular goal: supporting our students. Interested? Contact

students, regardless of their financial background. Our scholarship Prairie otherwise, and Premiere is one of two fundraising events

that directly benefits the scholarship program.

Prairie Premiere is an annual gala, typically held in the spring.

as parents, alumni, and friends, but as a community focused on a

Trista Deuster ’16, Development Events Manager, at 262-752-2596 or tdeuster@prairieschool.com.

Those who attend Premiere come to celebrate our community and

Scan here to

live auctions are highlights of the event, featuring unique packages

about Premiere

participate in an evening focused on philanthropy. Our silent and

and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

learn more

2022-2023 Financials —

REVENUE

Tuition and Fees

$11,292,250.00

Endowment Income

$2,350,000.00

Prairie Fund

$1,346,784.00

Special Events

$409,829.00

Other

$164,870.00

Total

$15,563,733.00

EXPENSES Salaries and Benefits

$9,582,400.00

Scholarships

$3,080,500.00

Instructional & Administrative

$1,117,485.00

Plant

$1,059,000.00

Capital

$497,525.00

Other

$147,290.00

Total

$15,484,200.00

2022-2023 ANNUAL FUNDRAISING SUMMARY Below shows a breakdown of Prairie's advancement income by purpose and source.

FUNDRAISING SOURCES Bigger, Better, Together

$275,000.00

Golf Classic & Dinner

$133,086.00

Prairie Fund

$1,245,909.00

Premiere

$276,743.00

Restricted

$1,431,716.00

Total

$3,362,454.00

FUNDRAISING BY CONSTITUENCY Alumni

12%

Alumni Families

10%

Companies & Foundations

10%

Current Grandparents

25%

Current Parents

31%

Faculty

5%

Friends

7%

Prairie Premiere 2023

First as a rummage sale and now as a gala auction, the Prairie Premiere has always raised significant funds for student scholarships. Forever a labor of love,

Premiere’s success has been tied to its extraordinary volunteers, donors, and all of the guests that make each event so unique. In 2023, Prairie came together once again as a community - raising over $260,000 to afford even more students access to a Prairie education.

—

2023 PREMIERE LEADERSHIP TEAM Jane Batten

Raquel Fallico

Amy Giles-Maurer

Mona Milinski Heather Smith

EVENT SPONSORS AND DONORS Anonymous (3)

3rd Street Market Hall

Mr. Matthew Adamczyk ’10 and

Mrs. Abby Gaertig Adamczyk ’10

Adventure Rock

Mr. and Mrs. Akil I. Ajmeri Sherry Allen

Alpine Plywood Corp.

Amos Los Tacos

Chris and Virginia Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Matt L. Andis Nijole and Julius Andriusis

Dr. and Mrs. Michael E. Angeline Sever and Andreea Anton Joy and Jon Aragones

Mr. and Mrs. Dennis R. Axelson Akemi and Darryl Babu ’88

Dr. Manoj Babu and Dr. Sheryn Abraham Robert and Heather Bahillo

Balkcom Hospitality, LLC /

Dustan and Betsy Balkcom

Andres Baptista and Zaida Puy Arena The Bartolottta Restaurants John ’83 and Jane Batten Ms. Linda Benfield

Kenneth and Susan Bergquist The Binder Family

Laura and Rob Bishop Blue Man Group

Michael and Kathryn Boero and Family Mr. and Mrs. Randy Borglin

Michael ’99 and Shay ’00 Borzynski John and Constance Boticki The Breit Family

The Brickyard Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Brouillard Jim and Abby Brzezinski

Bukacek Construction Group

Andrea Bukacek ’03 and Alan Clark

Scott and Sue Gaertig

Burn Boot Camp Mount Pleasant

Michael and Amy Garbo

Lynn Bukacek

Butcher & Barrel Gastropub Bill and Kim Butler

Steve and Anne Callaghan

Carriage House Pedal Tours

Mr. Rocco Castellano and Dr. Irina Ciubotaru The Chadwick Family Chay’s Tae Kwon Do Chiappetta Shoes Chicago Wolves Chit Chaat

Mr. Patrick Christensen Torben Christensen

Mr. and Mrs. Terry J. Ciszewski CNH Industrial

Coffman Family Scholarship Fund Julie and Jim Coffman

Nat and Laura Coffman CRB Insurance Agency

Dana Investment Advisors, Inc. Wade De Armond ’92 Jeff and Erin Decker Ms. Carmen Decot

Dr. Anthony Deuster and

Mrs. Sandra Brusha-Deuster

Trista Deuster ’16

Dimple’s Fine Imports Mr. Tom DiSalvo

Trisha and Andrew Dodge

Mr. Dhaval Doshi and Mrs. Dhruti Joshi Doumak Inc.

Downtown Racine Corporation Educators Credit Union Brian M. Eitel ’18

Dr. Nichole Elcano

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Fallico First American Bank

Foley & Lardner LLP

Forefront Dermatology

Scott and Charmaine Foster

Robert and Marilyn Fransway Matthew Friedman

Friends of the Domes

Garage Experts of SE Wisconsin Charles and Alicia Gasser Van and Janet Gegas

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Gelhaus The Ginestel Family Go Mortgage

Puntillo Camilli & Hughes, S.C. Adam and Andrea Godson Dick and Jane Gorton

Josh and Katie Gottschlich

Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth L. Gould Mike and Jessica Greb

Jason and Karen Greenwood

Mari and Jason Grobschmidt Gundlach Graphics, LLC

Mr. Austin and Dr. Jolyn Gundlach Nils-Holger and Jessica Gutjahr Marie Haertel

Sara Luther Hagerman and Dan Hagerman Mr. Bennett Harris ’10 Rita Harris

TJ and Amber Hearn

Brian Hervat and Carolyn Kirkby Val and Alena Himin

Mr. and Mrs. Collin Hirsch Ethan and Elizabeth Hoff

Kevin and Beth Hokanson David and Clair Holland

Mr. Christopher Adam Holterman ’03 The Holum Family

Honest Touch Wellness Spa Matt and Alyson Horton The Huynh Family

Nick and Brooke Infusino

Benjamin ’96 and Jenelle Isaacson Ives Grove Golf Links

Abby and Lee Jaramillo Pete and Paula Jedlicka Jelmar LLC

Jockey International

Johnson Financial Group Johnson Outdoors, Inc.

Dave and Chris Johnson

Molly Lofquist Johnson and Steve Johnson

The Miller Family

William Reid ’73 and Nicole Reid

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Joost ’03

Milwaukee Brewers

Retail Fixture, LLC

Skye Johnson

Kabab and Grill

Kann Family Charitable Fund

Joseph Kann and Christine Shields Kann

H. William Keland ’73 and Debbie Keland The Kelly Family Heather Kent

Denise Ketterer Brian Ketterer

Knoell Family Dentistry

Dr. Lyndsay N. Knoell and Dr. Wendy M. Knoell Steve and Dana Kohl

Peter and Lisa Koleske

Mr. and Mrs. John Korndoerfer Wolf Korndoerfer

Thomas and Rebekah Kowalski Mackenzie Krupp

John and Bev Kuvshinikov

Ashley and Laura LaBarber Jim and Debbie Ladwig

Lake Country DockHounds

Landmark Title of Racine, Inc. Brian Langendorf

Stu and Julie LaRose

Dr. Matthew Larsen and

Mrs. Jenny Antonneau Larsen

Lauren Wimmer Jewelry

Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Lawler The Leal Family

Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Leinweber

Connor ’10 and Veronica Leipold

Craig Leipold and Helen Johnson-Leipold ’74 Lenz Orthodontics

Nathan Leonardelli

Lighthouse Wealth Partners James and Jessica Lynott

Robert and Cheryl MacDonald Marlo, Incorporated Ms. Izzi Marquart

Sean and Brandi Mars

Juan and Raeleah Martinez

Shannon Massman ’01 and Ryan Massman Steve Maurer and Amy Giles-Maurer

Milwaukee Boat Line Milwaukee Bucks

Milwaukee Repertory Theater Joe and Sara Marshall

Pedro Pablo Morcillo and Diana Diaz

Pedro Paulo Mosquim and Fabiola Goes Bob and Kelly Mould

Josh and Sheila Mrotek

Greg and Sheryl Mueller

Jim Mueller and Christine Henke Mueller Mr. Zane Navratil ’14

Thierno Ndao and Ney Ndosi Brett and Lindsie Nelson

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Nelson The Nogueira Family

Northwestern University Athletics Paul Nowak and Elizabeth Spalla O & H Danish Bakery O’Brien Family Fund

Patrick and Betsie O’Brien Mr. and Mrs. Dan Oakes

Corey and Laura Oakland

Mike Ohmstead and Kara Ohmstead ’03 Dr. Kimberly Rybicki Olesen ’05 and Mr. Peter Olesen ’05

Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Onyon Kevin and Heather Orth The Osiecki Family

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Ostergaard

Amanda Cosgrove Paffrath ’85 and Mark Paffrath Fletcher Paulsen

Ivan and Jennie Payes

Seth and Andrea Pearson

Meadowbrook Country Club Deepak and Pooja Mehra

Garet and Kristin Mianecki

Michael Best & Friedrich, LLP Guy and Mona Milinski

40 | prairieschool.com

The Roncone-Harvey Family The Rossi Family

John S. Rowland II ’75

Braden and Cristin Rudolph Nick and Jen Ruetz

The Ruffo Family Foundation

Richard Ruffo ’83 and Diane Ruffo Russ Darrow Group

Chris Ruud ’89 and Chantil Ruud Senior Helpers of Racine

Mr. and Mrs. David H. Saaski Mr. and Mrs. John Salazar

The Sanctum Tabletop Gaming Emporium Edwin Sandle and Nicole D’Amour SC Johnson

SC Johnson Giving, Inc.

Tom and Wendy Schaefer Schaumburg Boomers

Randy and Birute Schlecht Mike Schmidt

Vicki and Ted Schmitz

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center Mr. Nicholas Schneider ’14

Mr. and Mrs. Todd Schober

Austin Schultz ’04 and Sean Radford Mr. Drew Scott

The Shepard Family

Mr. Douglas Shimp and

Mrs. Shakila Manogaran Shimp ’86

Bill and Ali Sluis

Patricia Penman Amy Peterson

Mr. and Mrs. Greg Peterson Jeff and Missy Peterson

Mr. Andrew Pettibone ’10 Paul Piaskoski and

Shana M. McCombs Piaskoski ’96

Lisa and Jim Popp

Mr. and Mrs. David J. McPhee

Rocco Castellano Design Studio, Inc.

Rachel Pena and Ryan Chadek

Chris and Kara Peery

Patrick McGuire and Charles McKain

Dr. Adrian Rivas and Dr. Jennifer Zeni

Jennifer Pichelman Sinnen ’04 and Dan Sinnen

Mia Pinero ’12

Megan Rowland McGuire ’02

Sudip and Amrita Ringwala

Mr. Tristan Pearson ’99 and Dr. Amy Pearson

Luciano Mazon and Michelle Maiochi Mazon Margaret and Mark McDonough

The Resonant Voice, LLC

Nick and Aliya Pitts Roberta Puntillo-Jorgensen and Kurt Jorgensen R & R Outdoor Furniture Racine Art Museum Racine Yacht Club Racine Zoo

Range Time Golf

Chris and Michelle Reber Refuel, LLC

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Siudak The Smith Family

Snap-On-Tools, Inc. Solstice Sanctuary

Paul and Christine Spang

David Speaks and Lynn Parys Speaks Specialty Finishing Inc. Spring Dental Group

Mike and Cathy Staeck Neil and Ashley Staeck

State Farm Companies Foundation

State Farm Insurance - Brian Ketterer Andrew Stelloh

Mr. Tony Stevens and Mrs. Jean Stevens Michael and Shadia Stewart Sticky Rice

Dr. Michael Stohler ’92 and Mrs. Rachel Stohler Steve and Marsha Stoner Todd and Laura Stoner

Why i support prairie I volunteered for Premiere because I have enjoyed attending and wanted to give my time to support the committees behind the event. It is enlightening how much time and effort goes into planning a hugely successful event like this. I’ve enjoyed getting to know parents I otherwise wouldn’t because our children are in different divisions. Giving my time to the committee has been not only an opportunity to help build Prairie’s scholarship program, but also a community-building experience.

When something matters to you and has an impact on your family it is our belief to invest back into that, whether with time, money, or attention. We are blessed to give our kids the opportunity to receive a Prairie education. We feel equally blessed that we can be a part of the community and support the school philanthropically. The teachers and staff at Prairie are a huge part of the village helping raise our kids, so we want to support that village as much as we can, whether it is with giving time, philanthropic giving, or beyond.

ALYSON HORTON

Parent of Charlotte ’31 and Julie ’33 Premiere Volunteer Primary School Co-Chair, Parent Prairie Fund Parents of Prairie (POP) Volunteer

Mr. Nolan Stracke ’10

Utopia Nails & Spa

Wisconsin Herd

SU Group LLC

Dr. and Mrs. Vahag Vartanian

Wokwicz Family Fund

Robert and Andrea Styles The Sullivan Family

Kenneth Swanson and Barbara Hoppa Swanson Tabak Law, LLC

Rick Taterczynski and Izzi Buikus

Patrick Tews and Elizabeth Morack TG3 Electronics, Inc.

Erin and Ryan Tollaksen

Mr. and Mrs. David and Sarah Turek

Twenty Twenty Family Vision Center Twin Disc, Inc.

Andrew and Jennifer Twist

Jenny Ulbricht and Greg York

Varitay Studios

Mr. and Mrs. J. Joseph Veranth ’80

Tony Veranth ’84 and Chris Veranth Mr. Armen A. Vidian ’88

Dan and Christina Wade

Mr. and Mrs. Steven Waite Andrea and Thomas Ware

Andrew and Ali Wassweiler

Mr. and Mrs. Brian C. Weaver Ben and Katie White

Marcus and Ann White

Wind Point Acupuncture

Wind Point Police Department

Wisconsin Maritime Museum David Woodhams and Rachelle Yecke Paul and Paula Wokwicz

Mr. Jeffrey Wolf and Dr. Lisa Wolf

Anthony Wooden and Rebecca Perry ’95 Sammie Woodward ’16

Greg and Elizabeth Yagel Yoga Roots Racine

Zimmerman Architectural Studios, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Zlevor

SAVE THE DATE:

JUNE 14 - 15, 2024 Alumni Weekend is made for memories – celebrating those from our past and creating a space for new ones to take shape. The best version of Alumni Weekend happens because of your ideas, energy and input; the weekend is the end result of collaboration across class years, and we know that this year’s event can bring even more grads together. If you want to be part of the planning, you’re willing to reach out to your classmates, or you have ideas to share, we would love your help. Contact Callie Atanasoff, Director of External Relations, at 262-752-2531 or catanasoff@prairieschool.com, to learn more about how you can be part of Alumni Weekend 2024.

Scan here for a full list of alumni events, 42 | prairieschool.com

including Alumni Weekend 2024

Speaking Volumes — Callie Atanasoff,

Director of External Relations

I watched as she wrote inside the card, not sure of the recipient but noting the imagery was somber, peaceful.

It went to the mailbox and she moved on to the next task at hand.

Weeks later, I was in conversation with a new Prairie parent and they were sharing about their experience. They mentioned the card – a note of sympathy upon the passing of a family member, the one I watched her address – and how it was received even before their child was accepted at Prairie.

In his words, it spoke volumes about the author – and about this school – to open up something so genuine and personal.

You can tell a lot from a person’s handwriting. Molly Lofquist Johnson’s is swoopy and timeless, the kind you acquire after years of grade school cursive. The flow of each loop is reflective of her personality: welcoming, connected, uncomplicated. This handwriting has been penned on countless thank you cards and encouraging notes. It has transcribed meetings and created lists. When the world calls for fast-paced and automatic, Molly’s affinity for deliberate and thoughtful is an unexpected delight.

But this is about more than just putting pencil to paper. It’s about recognizing need and stepping in. It’s about meeting someone where they are and helping them get to what’s next. It’s about listening, hearing what others may not, and responding in a way that is inherently Molly: with compassion, warmth, and a “Let’s figure it out together” mentality.

These characteristics made it bittersweet when she moved from the Admission Office to College Counseling this summer. I watched her bring all of herself to the table day in and day out, many times ending up under her wing, but more often observing her patience and encouragement as families experienced Prairie for the first time.

Molly was the soft spot to land when nerves and uncertainty about enrollment were high, and the first to celebrate when a family went from general inquiry to scheduling courses to

first-day photos. Seeing her step away from twenty-three years of literally being the Admission Office was difficult because she loves people so well. How would that translate to college counseling?

Brilliantly, it seems. Because in many ways, it’s like coming full circle. Molly built a career on creating relationships with families who were at a vulnerable place in their lives, uncertain of how Prairie fit into the narrative. The same is true with college counseling: navigating the journey to selecting a college is not easy. It’s filled with anxiety, anticipation, and eagerness, and requires the guidance of someone who wants to walk alongside you. When Upper School is bustling with deadlines and essays and letters of recommendation, Molly makes sure to slow down, create space, and remind students that she is in their corner.

On the credenza in my office sits a spiral-bound scrapbook; inside is a collection of notes I have kept over the years, some expressing gratitude or appreciation, others words of wisdom or congratulations. The majority are from her, Molly’s personality present in every brightly-formed word.

A tangible accumulation of moments at her desk with pencil in hand, creating connection one thoughtful message at a time. Whether Molly Lofquist Johnson is at the beginning of someone’s Prairie story or the finale, she makes people feel like they matter, and I am forever grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had to witness this in action.

4050 Lighthouse Drive Wind Point, WI 53402

DISCLAIMER: As always, we appreciate hearing from you and welcome your input, contributions, comments, and suggestions.

Information in this publication is presented in good faith.

Please email the school or send your feedback to us at ahearn@prairieschool.com.

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