ROEPER COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
KIT
ROEPER COMMUNITY MAGAZINE
Through the latest school news, achievements, and stories, Keeping In Touch connects the Roeper community—current members and alumni—by celebrating the unique spirit that unites us all.
VOLUME 18, ISSUE 2
PUBLISHER
KARI KRESS
EDITOR
JENNY IRVINE
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
CAROLYN BORMAN
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
JACK WILLIAMS
CONTRIBUTORS
DENITA BANKS-SIMS
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
SCOTT CARMONA
ASSISTANT TO THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
CHRISTOPHER FEDERICO
HEAD OF SCHOOL
AMY-BETH FLEISCHER
BOARD TREASURER & VP FINANCE
ALANA GLASS BOARD CHAIR
JENIFER OBEROI
RPC CO-PRESIDENT
SHANI YAPA-KIMPSON
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS & ANNUAL FUND
CONTACT US
EMAIL ADDRESS CHANGES TO paige.wilson@roeper.org
EMAIL ALUMNI NEWS TO shani.yapa-kimpson@roeper.org
Read KIT online at www.roeper.org/ community/roeper-community.
Lawrence Tech University during Interdisciplinary Week. The Roeper School @theroeperschool
Attendees had the chance to drive a racecar simulator at the 2024 Mariann Hoag Scholarship Dinner Prelude at the M1 Concourse.
Front Cover: Our Middle School visited
PUBLISHER KARI KRESS
Looking back on 2023–24, one thing stands out—the unwavering strength of the Roeper community. In moments of celebration and times of challenge, we came together, guided by our shared commitment to gifted education, inclusivity, and the pursuit of justice. We are a community that does not shy away from complexity but embraces it, believing that meaningful learning happens when we engage with diverse perspectives and work toward understanding.
Last year, the Roeper community demonstrated the power of collective learning and dialogue. When faced with global challenges, we did not retreat into silence or division. Instead, we leaned into what we do best: fostering open and informed conversations. Through partnerships with the Mill Institute, which helps schools cultivate spaces for rigorous and open dialogue, and with Wayne State University professors, who provided historical and geopolitical context, we gained a deeper understanding of how to better engage in complex topics with one other.
Now, as we face growing threats to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and as challenges mount against the very foundations of education, our unity matters more than ever. Roeper has always empowered gifted learners to think critically and act compassionately. That is why we are here—and why we must stand together.
As George Roeper said, “It is certainly tempting and comforting to look only for people who are like you… but it also is very limiting, and nurtures a closed society, a closed mind, and maybe a closed future. However, the search for the differences in the world and the effort to understand them will prepare a fertile ground for abundant creativity.”
In the spring, we came together as a team to document campus life, capturing moments that define Roeper. This footage reinforces what we already know: despite differences in opinion, we remain steadfast in our mission.
Thank you for giving back to this extraordinary school. Your dedication—whether as a teacher, student, parent, alum, or friend—ensures that our mission remains not just intact but thriving.
Cheers,
CONTENTS
MARIANN HOAG SCHOLARSHIP DINNER
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
OUR DONORS IN YOUR WORDS RPC LEADERSHIP
We empower gifted learners to be active and compassionate citizens of the world. THE ROEPER SCHOOL 10
TOUCH POINT
BUILDING OUR FUTURE
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT DENITA BANKS-SIMS
The 2023–24 academic year was marked by a deliberate and celebrated focus on equity and justice. In an explicit expression of worthiness and a foundational response to the mission, Roeper launched two capital campaigns:
The Accessible by Design campaign began with a simple idea: that Roeper students and all community members should have equal access to learning, growth, and connectedness. This $1.1 million campaign is designed to make the beloved Lower School campus a more welcoming, inclusive space for all.
This project will support our efforts to break down mobility barriers, allowing students, faculty, staff, and visitors to fully engage in our dynamic community. By removing these obstacles, we are aligning our campus with Roeper’s core values, where justice means fairness and diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just ideals but a lived reality.
Keeping Our Promise is a two-year fundraising campaign designed to significantly increase the number of full (100%) tuition scholarships available for low and middle-income gifted students throughout southeast Michigan. We aim to raise $5 million for restricted endowment, the income from which will perpetually fund such scholarships, and an additional $1 million in exhaustible funds to increase the number of scholarships immediately available.
Addressing this gap is crucial not only for the well-being of gifted children and their families but also for our school
“Nothing is more worthy of research, understanding, and improvement than the means to encourage children to achieve full development as creative, intellectual beings for the satisfaction of their own and mankind’s aspirations.”
-George Roeper
which benefits from their existential impact on our community. This effort is a continuing manifestation of George and Annemarie’s vision and earlier practices.
Counted among the critical attention given to the equity campaigns is the enormous success of our fundraising programming—from the Annual Fund Campaign, the 2024 Mariann Hoag Scholarship Dinner, Grandparents and Special Persons Day, Founders Day, Philumni Day, and the multiple collaborations that advance the school and affirm the importance of community.
The privilege of ensuring the worthiness that George and Annemarie describe is only possible with partners and allies that share the same outlook and commitment to interdependence.
We are deeply indebted to you! Your continuing confidence and notable generosity make all the difference.
Thanks for reaffirming our worthiness.
ROEPER GOLF OUTING
This annual event isn’t
just about sinking putts; it’s about lifting up our student-athletes
For over twenty-five years, the Roeper Golf Outing has been more than just a tradition— it’s been a celebration of community and a shared love for supporting Roeper Athletics.
This annual event isn’t just about sinking putts; it’s about lifting up our student-athletes, giving them the resources to excel, and ensuring they have every opportunity to thrive. The funds raised go directly into enhancing the athletics program—fueling overnight team trips, securing top-notch equipment, and creating unforgettable experiences that shape our
athletes’ journeys.
The 2024 Roeper Golf Outing, played at WestWynd G.C. for the second year in a row, continued this tradition and raised nearly $13,000. The weather was spectacular as was the play of the defending champion foursome consisting of Roeper senior and golfer Sam Salinas, Dan Salinas, Colby Cunningham, and Tim Bergsma. Led by Sam, the team captured the trophy yet again.
Roeper Athletics is grateful for the continued support from the community.
2025 ROEPER GOLF OUTING
WestWynd GC Oakland Township August 22
This scramble-style event features games for golfers of all skill levels, as well as a dinner-only option.
BY SCOTT CARMONA ATHLETIC DIRECTOR ASSISTANT
TIME
BOARD CHAIR ALANA GLASS ’97
What matters to you is what you spend your time on. At The Roeper School, we know that philanthropy extends beyond financial contributions—it is also about the time we dedicate to the people and places that shape us. Time is one of the most valuable gifts we can give, and when shared with purpose, it has the power to strengthen and sustain our community.
As the board chair and an alum, I have chosen to give back to Roeper because this school matters deeply to me. Whether engaging with students or working alongside fellow board members, each moment I invest reinforces the importance of our mission—empowering gifted learners to be active and compassionate citizens of the world. I have seen firsthand how volunteers help make Roeper a thriving, dynamic place. From mentoring students to organizing events, dedicated Roeper volunteers build connections, enrich experiences, and foster a culture of care.
Giving my time to Roeper has been incredibly rewarding. Volunteering has allowed me to stay connected to a community that has profoundly influenced who I am today while deepening my appreciation for Roeper’s inclusive and nurturing learning environment. I am honored to contribute to its continued growth, and I encourage you to reflect on what matters most to you and how you can share your time in ways that uplift our community.
Every moment given—big or small—makes a difference.
TALENT
RPC COPRESIDENT JENIFER OBEROI
When I think of talent, I think of being able to play an instrument, speak multiple languages or excel at a sport, but there are other talents that people have that aren’t so flashy. Having a willingness to join in, being organized, and making others feel welcomed are just a few talents that may not win awards, but they are fundamental to so many aspects of life, especially when it comes to making an impact on your community.
My family and I packed up and moved to Michigan 3 years ago. We had no prior connections to Michigan, so we did not know anyone in our new home. While my husband went to work and my two daughters went to school, I was at home by myself. I needed a place to meet and connect with new people. Getting involved in the Roeper Parent Community (RPC) provided me the opportunity to build my Michigan community. I was able to utilize my skills and talents I developed from my career in nursing to my roles within the RPC. I enjoyed getting involved and helping the school and found that I was the one who gained the most from my work with the RPC. I have made amazing friends, tried new things, and learned a lot about myself from my time in the RPC.
TREASURE
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS AND ANNUAL FUND
At Roeper, every day unfolds with boundless opportunities for our students to explore, innovate, and evolve— empowering them to think critically, create boldly, and lead with purpose.
As we reflect on the 2023–2024 academic year, we celebrate not only the remarkable achievements of our community but also the transformative power of collective generosity.
Thanks to our shared commitment, last year’s Annual Fund raised an extraordinary $325,000, directly supporting the programs and initiatives that make Roeper’s educational experience truly exceptional.
These funds enabled us to:
• Enrich our curriculum to foster deeper learning and exploration
• Elevate professional development for our outstanding educators
• Introduce an innovative Lower School makerspace to spark hands-on creativity
• Expand access to immersive learning opportunities, including:
SHANI YAPA-KIMPSON
• Dynamic electives
• Inspiring field trips
• A growing fine arts program
• Advance critical social-emotional learning and wellness initiatives, nurturing the whole student
As we embarked on the 2024–2025 school year, we set our sights on an even more ambitious Annual Fund goal, ensuring that Roeper continues to be a haven for intellectual curiosity, creative expression, and meaningful connection.
With your support, we can further strengthen this legacy, equipping our students with the vision, resilience, and ingenuity to shape the future.
ANNUAL FUND 2023-24
GOAL $325,000
CAMPAIGN TOTAL $326,500
PERCENTAGE OF GOAL 100.5%
AVERAGE GIFT AMOUNT $384.00
DONORS 618
GIFTS 882
The Rev Up for Roeper Mariann Hoag Scholarship Dinner, held on April 20, 2024 at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac, was a tremendous success, bringing our community together for a fun, racing-themed evening in support of a great cause. With the generosity of our attendees, along with contributions from sponsorships, donations, and silent auction proceeds, we raised an impressive $50,000 for scholarships and financial aid.
Beyond raising essential funds, the
event fostered a true sense of community, sparking new friendships and strengthening connections.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our dinner hosts, committee members, volunteers, and all those who made financial contributions. Each of you played a vital role in making this event both memorable and impactful.
BY JENNY IRVINE EVENTS COORDINATOR & COMMUNITY OUTREACH
FINANCIALOVERVIEW
BOARD TREASURER & VICE CHAIR • FINANCE AMY-BETH FLEISCHER
Roeper is dedicated to empowering its students, faculty, and staff with the resources they need to thrive. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Head of School Christopher Federico, Associate Head for Finance & Operations Dave Fluent, and members of the Finance Committee, we have strategically invested in programs that enrich and strengthen our school.
Guided by Roeper’s strategic plan, the committee focused on elements that continue to be critical for long-term sustainability:
• Recruit and Retain Exceptional Faculty/Staff
The retention of our talented teachers and staff is vital to long-term success. During the 2023–2024 school year, faculty salaries increased by an average of 8% and are consistent with other midwestern independent schools.
• Invest in Best-in-Class Facilities
Safety was improved by adding exterior access control and window safety measures. This work was partially funded by a Mental Health and Safety grant from the State of Michigan. In addition, playground improvements were made on the lower school campus.
• Invest in Academic Programs
The Lower School leadership team was strengthened with essential new staff. Student participation in class-wide trips increased and students were provided with a yearbook with that cost incorporated into tuition. These investments enable the school to deliver a more personalized education and improve student retention.
• Grow the Endowment & Annual Fund
An alumni family established The Roeper Academic Fund for Poetry with a generous $100K donation. Roeper’s endowment ended the fiscal year at $9.9M, an increase of $0.8M. The Annual Fund, a key funding source for operations, increased 9% due to greater participation and significant lead gifts. Continuing to grow the endowment and Annual Fund will provide increased funding for operations and financial aid.
• Support the Mission through Increased Financial Aid
Roeper was founded to provide education to children of all income levels. Financial strength is important to long-term viability, but it is only one element that defines success. To attract and retain talented students, Roeper provided $2.9M in aid. Financial aid is a critical element of Roeper’s financial model as more than 30% of Roeper’s net tuition revenue comes from families who receive financial aid.
Despite challenges this school year— including rising operating costs due to inflation and a slight decrease in enrollment, our summer programs saw strong growth. Through strategic financial management and collaboration between school leadership and the Finance Committee, we continue to sustain our programs, support the Roeper community, and strengthen our long-term financial foundation to benefit future students and families.
OPERATING UNRESTRICTED OPERATING FUND BUDGET 2023–2024
SOURCES
Tuition & other programs
Investment income, includes endowment draw
Gifts & grants
Other, i.e., Interest Income, Lunch Fees, Aftercare, Enrichment, misc.
Plant & equipment reserve transfer for project work
$ 16,286,000 $698,000 $388,000 $255,000 $152,000
USES
Academics & other programs
Financial aid, scholarships, & discounts
Management & general
Facility operation
Public relations & admissions
Development
Project work
Auxilary services
Operating shortfall reserve transfer
$9,567,000 $2,929,000 $1,597,000 $1,429,000 $820,000 $507,000 $393,000 $314,000 $233,000
OUR DONORS
The Cao Family
Anna Babushkina & Nick Gruber
Alexandra Dickinson 2004
Alexandra Kambouris Alberstadt 1983
Allen Lantor & Leah Raitt
Andrea & David Fluent
Arthur Luby 1971
Brent M. Kratochvil & Emily Calabrese
Brian Dietz 1983
Carolyn Borman
Christopher & Elizabeth Klee
Community Foundation of SE Michigan
Carol & Joel Appel
Daniel & Annette See
Gideon & Jaime Pfeffer
Julie & Robert Hertzberg
Amie & Michael Sweet
Amy-Beth & Mark Fleischer
Bradley Rourke 1983 & Andrea Jarrell
Jeanne & Michael Haynes
Laura Castleman & Daniel Schechter
Lawrence Kraft 1967* & Jackie Kraft
M.R. Metzger Family Foundation
Peggy & Jared Klein
Angelin Baskaran & William Vijverberg
Bessy Despotis & Clay Thomas
David Jaffe 1974 & Erica Peresman
Kristine & Jason Vazzano
Richard & Francesca Westenberg
Robert Sims & Denita Banks-Sims
Ryan Fringer & Carmen Wargel
Sarah & Kenneth Miller
Sujana Gundlapalli & Dipak Shah
Christopher Federico & Ljiljana Stanic
Curtis Bagne & Catherine Gofrank
Diana & James Elshoff
Don & Kathie Heng
Frances O’Laughlin
Gayle Kirker
Jai & Jenifer Oberoi
Javier & Lucha Arguelles
Joan Brawer
John West 1974 & Judith West
Jon & Amy Norgard
Julia & Leroy Richie
Kevin & Laurie Welsh
Laurence & Emily Wine
Leeann Konrad & Timothy Hefferon
Lisa Baker
Lori Lutz 1975 & Gregory Gamalski
Lucinda Sabino
Mark Jeffery 1971 & Debbie Jeffery
Maxine Gardner
Michael & Cindy Pettibone
Michael Cummins & Kara Brooklier
Michele Munde 1980
Nancy & Neil Sosin
Pat Roan Judd
Paul Rabe 1972* & Cheryl Gunter
Peter Roeper 1963* & Martha Harnly
Rachel Stafeil
Roger & Aimee Mali
Bold indicates donors who have given five or more consecutive years.
*Attended but did not graduate from Roeper.
Sarah North 1998
Sheri & Evan Shapiro
Simon Leopold & Sarah Winkler
Soren & Wallis Andersen
Stacey Hahn & Ryan Cockerill
Steven Shepard & Abbie Shuman
Susan Lane
Teresita S. Leyell
Thomas Kostecke & Jennifer Langowski
Vickie & Derek Teetsel
Copper Circle
Evan Law Group
The Larson Family
$500–$999
Ajit Sharma & Pratibha Chauhan
Allen & Georga Parchem
Alvaro & Maureen Martinez
Amy & Doug Hugo
Amy & Michael Margolis
Ann Steglich
Arthur Ensroth 1968*
Binh Pham & Christopher Rooks
Charlotte & Peter Gerrits
Christopher Bradley 1986 & Carolyn Bradley
Debra Meier
Elaine Fears Edwards
Elisabeth Stayer 2000 & Douglas Stayer
Eric Davies 1977 & Karole Davies
Eric Silverman 1981
Erik Burbulla 2012
Frank Crosby 1985
Harwood & Barbara Nichols
Henry McKee
Hillary Burnett 1972
James Shaffer & Jason McIntosh
Jay Must
Jeffrey Kimpson 2008 & Shani Yapa-Kimpson 2008
Joe & Liz Fallert
Joel Applebaum & Jami Statham
Jon & Jennifer Wojtala
Kendra Heger
Kristine Howard
Lara Frank & Benjamin Frank 1998
Laura Southworth Bloch 1994
Leopold Super 1996
Marc Friedman 1975 & Madalyn Friedman
Marko Slusarczuk 1970 & Norma Lynn Fox
Marlita Reddy-Hjelmfelt 1979 & Eric Hjelmfelt
Mary Ann Yamamoto
Matthew & Pamela Sims
Michael Harrison 1991
Michael Tilchin 1972
Michal McConville & Matthew Vallus
Naomi Johnson Miller 1974
Noa & Julian Ofen
Pat & Michael Lawrence
Paul & Jennifer Bonde
Richard Dennis & Anne M. Gahagan
Robert & Debbie Hansen
Robert A. Shaya & Ashley E. Lowe
Rosalie Golden
Scott & Katherine Vartanian
Shailesh Rao
Shawn Pelak & David Parent
Stephanie Diamond & Kevin Carlson
Thomas & Julie Song
Thomas Wilkinson & Marcia Ruff
Timothy Hefferon & Leeann Konrad
Tom Baker
Vicki Robinson
Benefactor Circle
Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated
$250–$499
Adam Dorfman 1990 & Melissa Moskof
Andrea Miller 1974
Andrew Amaral & Nanette Dondero-Amaral
Anita Zaleski Weinraub 1969
Barbara & Rodney Keteyian
Benjamin Shepard 2003
Brandon Petitpren & Jennifer Chang
Christopher & Amy Little
Christopher Ramirez 1980
Craig Malstrom & Sara Ann Paul Malstrom 1971
Daniel Kanter 1976
Darian Thomason 1973
David & Anessa Kramer 1989*
David Golden 2006
Donna Ancypa Holmes 1987
Donna Hart
Dr. Tom Roeper 1961* & Laura Holland
Elisabeth & Kenneth Brower
Elizabeth Kellogg Prince 1991 & Brett Prince
Fred & Shanon Stibor
George Ellenwood 1966
2024 Roeper Graduates
Gina & Christian Keller
Gretchen & Jerry Reeves
Jacqueline Cohen & Allan Warnick
Jamie & Beth Michelson
Jason & Meredith Mallory
Julie & Tyler Gibbs
Karen & Steven Ballentine
Karen May
Kathryn & Matthew Bressette
Kathryn Nance-Deakins 1981 & Richard Deakins
Kelly MacDonald
Kevin Kildea
Kristopher Gauthier 2000 & Lucinda Gauthier
Matthew Oztalay 2007
Michael Dinwiddie 1973* & Vincent Parham
Miranda Beebe 1984*
Nancy McGunn & Aaron Sheposh
Norbert Hart
Patricia & David Bostwick
Patrick Gleason 1986
Patrick White & Amy Clark
Peter Karmanos III & Laura Karmanos
Randall & Elizabeth Dunn
Richard Noel 1980
Robert Cox 1981 & Dara Kovel
Sandra Richardson-Smith
Scott Simecek & Kathrina Spyridakis
Shannon Chavez-Korell & Kevin Bastyr
Sharon Gross & Jeffrey Garvin
Sidney & Cynthia Fox
Susan & Robert Williams
Timothy & Nicole Gandee
Wendy Shanker
Werner C. Roennecke & Patricia Ignatius
Zachary & Susan Savas
Patron Circle $100–$249
Anonymous Donors
Aaron Appel 2012
Adam Derington
Adela Jaffe 2009
Alexander Pedica
Alison Lisi 2007
Alyse Belkin
Amy & Thomas Lisi
Andrea Amboyer 1999 & Dan Ambroyer, Jr. 1999
Andrew Wedepohl & Sarah Wedepohl 1988
Angie Mann-Williams & Derrick Williams
Anita & Haris Eminefendic
Ann & Alan Frank
Anna Kohn 2002
Barbara Boraks Samson 1970
Barbara Dornan & Jeremy Schemm 1992
Barbara Herman
Ben & Bethany Melitz
Bill Buckingham 1963* & Pam Buckingham
Blake Pynnonen
Bonita Yapa
Brent Collins 1998
Candis Thomas
Carlita Boyd & Joel Simmons
Carol & Michael Barnhart
Carolyn & Andrew Blechman
Carolyn Lett
Catherine Cangany & Douglas Reed, Jr
Charles McIntosh & Yvette Fails McIntosh
Charlotte Whitney Stevens
Cheryl & Craig Adams
Cheryl Blau 1980
Christie Peck & Edwin Baker
Christopher & Sona Manzo
Colleen & Scott Shelton
Coriann & Michael Gastol
Courtney Elto
Crystal Huszczo
Cullen & Crystal Worthem
Curtis Blessing 1969 & Amanda Van Dusen
Curtis Scott 1971 & Diane Wilson Scott
Cynthia Churches
Cyrus Motlagh
Dan Jacobs
Daniel & Jessica Klein
Daniel Urson & Lisa Zebarah-Shears
Danielle & Jacob Bass
David & Colleen Allen
David & Jamie Goldschmidt
David Finkel & Amy Good
Deandra Mack 2002
Deborah Hack
Derrick Harper
Diane Vanderbeke Mager
Dianne & Patrick O’Connor 1978*
Donald Hammond & Amy Cova
Donna Green Stano & James Stano
Ekima White
Elizabeth & John Turner
Elli Altman
Emery & Linda Pence
Emily & Russell Abrutyn
Emily Lardner 2006
Eric Nelsen 1992 & Nancy Nelsen
Erik & Christine Jackson
Erin Hill Brody
Gareth Fisher 1990
Gjyste & Anton Bojaj
Gloria Despard
Guangzhi Qu & Yi Qi
2024 Forensics State Champs
Harry Pianko
Hatty Ligon
Heather Henry
Herman Marable Jr 1980
James & Colleen Potocki
James & Deborah Delisle
James & Jackie Statham
James & Lynn Heiman
James & Malinda Waltz
James Balmer 1970* & Martha Balmer
Jane Marx 1973
Janice Haines
Jared Galle & Carolyn Kidney
Jarie & Mike Ruddy
Jasmin Ghuznavi
Jason Cohen
Jeffrey & Bi Linton
Jeffrey Nielson & Jessica Seim
Jennifer & Fred Cruz
Jennifer & Chad Grieco Burch
Jessica Payette & Michael Gurevich
Jim & Beth Vens
Jingjing Xie
Joan Firestone
Joan Helfman 1972
Joel Lutz
John & Katherine Hammond
John Crandell 1968 & Pia Crandell
John Luttermoser 1975 & Ann Randall
Joshua Turner 1991 & Rachael Turner
Joy Lawson Davis
Judy Failer 1982 & David Orentlicher
Julie Stitt
Karen Green
Karrie Chagnon
Katharine Whitman 1992 & Dan Trommater
Katrina & Kyle Hinton
Keith Carpenter 1968 & Mary Henry
Kevin Reissmann & Emily Malcoun
Larry Pietron
Latish Adnani & Teena Chopra
Leigh N. Odonnell 1988
Lorene Porter
Luis Mendez & Sara Mendez 1996
Mana Al-Hussaini & Hasan Humadi
Marcia Abramson & Martin Hirschman
Mariana & Brian Durst
Marie Halpin
Mark & Barbara Rogers
Mary Louise & Thomas McMillan
Mary Panzer
Matthew Nahan 2004
Megan Lewis 2026
Meghan & Philip Stott
Michael & Debbie Cook
Michael & Mary Peterson
Michael Hicks
Michael J. Granzeier & Michelle Blankenship
Michael Russell
Mykolas Rambus 1996 & Tamara Rambus
Nadine & Lenny Borrisove
Natalie Abbott
Nicky & Eric Owski
Nicole & Nicholas Weibel
Nicole Ramos 1997 & Jose Victor Ramos
Nik Trendowski 1994
Pamela Harmon
Pandora Young 1999
Patricia Hurd & Bruce Weeks
Paula Ficyk
Pavan Brahmamdam & Preetha L. Balakrishnan
Philip Hague 1987 & Susan Hague
Pierre & Debbie Fuger
Rachel Blum-Jose
Richard Fisher & Ilka Naumann
RM McConville
Rob Rahbari 1989
Robert & Alison Emerick
Robert Harner & Pamela Majchrzak
Rocio & Dennis Lewis
Ron Robinson & Leslie Hosey
Rosalie Lake
Rula Sater
Ruth & Milo Tilton
Ryan Sosin 2003 & Curran Sosin
Sara Talpos 1993
Sarah & Christopher Demercurio
Sarahlin & Andrew Smith
Severo & Marcelina Castro
Sheila Ronis
Shelley & Franklin Sollars
Sosha Haynes 1996
Stacy Renee Frase
Stephon & Kellie Bagne
Steve & Deborah Veillette
Steven Scott 1974 & Dresden Scott
Steven Yedlin 1968
Sue & Mark Mathes
Sue Kellogg-Graf 1987 & Mike Graf
Syeda MacEachern
Tanisha & Marshall Bostic
Ted & Rita Golden
Tessa Stein & Bob Simon
Thomas & Juliette Olejnik
Thomas & Michelle McEvoy
Tracee Miller & Dan John Miller
Troopk Khansarinia
Tunesia & Khary Turner
Vivek & Venee Natarajan
Werner Roennecke 2011
William Ritter
Zoe Fleischer 2024
Friendship Circle Up to $99
Anonymous Donors
Aaron & Sarah Smith
Adam & Kathrine Killeen
Ahlem & Arnaud Diomande
Alan & Sarah Guseilo
Alankar Mehta & Heather Gruszczynski
Alexa Miller 2020
Alison Kissinger
Ally Edgerton
Amy Barron & Eric Raphael
Amy Turner 2013
Andrea Eis & Steven Rost
Andrea Hernandez Troya & Francisco Davila
Andree Bell
Angela McClain 2005* & Corey McClain
Annmarie Grace
Arlynda & Chuck Koerber
Ashley & Rob Sanmartin
Aurora Thomas-Hagerman 2018
Benjamin Fisher 2017
Beth Fienman
Brian & Andrea Akkashian
Brian Genoa 1990
Brian Kloc 2001 & Kristin Kloc
Bridghette Parker
Bruce Fleischer 1978
Caitlin Doyle 1995
Caleb Gross
Carlos Villafane 2008
Carmen Flora
Carol & Jason Kolk
Carter Kimpson 2030
Chloe Kimpson 2036
Christina & Bert Calderwood
Christine Curry 2005 & Alfred Asante
Colleen Dolan-Greene & Walter Greene
Corinne Vens 2014
Craig Hicks 1982
Craig McMichael
Crystal A. Hunter
David & Amber Webb
David Best 1990 & Lindsay Best
David Billings & Jolene Innis
David Egan & Manjula Egan
David Lauer 2008
David Twist & Faye Stevenson
Deborah King
Deborah Lipson Feldman 1974 & Steven Feldman
Deirdre Wade 1987
Delia & Michael Chavarria
Derek & Vanessa Samuelson
Donivan Abraham 2008
Dr. Julius M. Gardin 1966
Edwin Baker 2008
Elise & Steve Lind
Elizabeth Stevenson
Emily & Brian Rassel
Emma Wine 2020
Eric & Erica McEvoy
Eric Peterson 1995
Evan & Sarah Bockhausen
Gloria Chandler
Grandmother Rassel
Gretchen Osgood & Peter Henninger-Osgood
H. George & Stacie & George Levy
Hannah Lawrence 2006
Heather & Scott Carmona
Hope Williams
Ian Buttermore 2000
Ilene Lisak
Irene Wellman
Jake Mickley 2008 & Lyz Mickley
Jameel & Dialllo Smith
James & Kimberly Dunne
Janea Wilson 2018
Jared Safran 1999
Jean Goddard
Jeff Bird & Eulalia Ferrer
Jen & Chris Ziemann
Jenn Dory
Jennifer & Jonathan Irvine
Jennifer Carlson
Jennifer Clarkson & Christopher Olson
John & Amy Emmert
John Jessmon
John Petrycia & Julie Chappell-Petrycia
Johnathan Dinneweth 2024
Jonathan Parker 2008 & Brittany Hamilton 2010
Judy Catlin
JuliAnne Diesch
Julie Fracasso
Julie James
Karen Doyle & Fletcher Liverance
Kari Kress
Kate Schelhaas
Katelyn Teetsel 2023
Michael & Carole Van Hoef
Kathryn & Shawn Claypool
Kathy Sube
Katja Biesanz 1971 & Coby
Keisha & Paul Allen
Kimberly & Troy Wyman
Kristen Carr 2008 & Lonell Carr
Kristine & Chris Ahn
Kristy Firchau
Kyla Robison
Lance Sigler & Kristen Hine
Laura Sobieralski
Linda Vernon & Rob Gotshall
Lisa & Jay Fisher
Lisa Vihos 1977
Lori & Donald Migdal
Lysa Postula
Maddy Harner 2018
Mahmooda Hafeez
Mary & Peter Ballard
Meagan Konst 2018
Megan Lassere
Melissa & Daniel Salinas
Michael Gendelman
Michelle Resnick 2008
Mignon Hayes 1967
Mite & Darren Post
Molly & Seth Kimball
Morris & Rychee Brown
Nanette & Stephen Newman
Neil & Amy Kane
Nicholas Skardarasy 2008
Noa A. Gellner 2008
Olacoy Lawyer 1995
Paige Wilson 2008
Patrick Harris
Peter Karmanos 2017
Ray & Robin Lillibridge
Rebekah & Joseph Gruber
Renee Mannix Jordan 1996 & Robert Jordan
Rick McKenzie
Robert & Jaclyn Standring
Robert MacDougall & Kendra McKenzie
Ronald & Diana Pryor
Roshan Shah 2025
Roz Larson
Sandra L. Shoshani
Sara & Jared Amaral
Sarah Witten
Shannon & Jason Johnson
Shannon Spisak Mehalik
Shant Saroukhanian & Erica Bokatzian
Shawn & Ronald Stringer
Shelley Rische
Shirley & Pat Olney
Shoshanna Utchenik
Sonia Just
Sophia Karmanos 2019
Sue Garrett
Sue Womack
Teresa Schafer Sullivan 1969 & John Sullivan
Terri & Griffin Hoover
The Elia Family
The Kasper Family
Thomas & Laura Panek
Tim Strom 1987
Tyler Cox 2008
Victoria Moore 2008
Wendy Mayer
William & Tari McGrane
Xan Armstrong
Zuzanna & Aaron Parchem
Special Gifts
Community Foundation of SE Michigan
Benevity Community Impact Fund
Red’s Pontiac & Bloomfield Hills Youth Soccer Club
The Frank L. & Helen Gofrank Foundation
Brian Dietz 1983
Carolyn Lett
Richard & Francesca Westenberg
Robert Sims & Denita Banks-Sims
Stephen Larson
Yvette Fails McIntosh & Charles McIntosh
Gift-in-Kind Gifts 2023
M1 Concourse
Elisabeth Stayer 2000 & Douglas Stayer
Michael & Amie Sweet
Tom & Jeanne Petzel
MHSD Donor & Supporters
2023
Classroom Auction Item Donors
Birmingham Campus Makerspace Creations
Amber & Karen’s Stage I, Smiles by the Mile
Andi & Angela’s Stage II, A Lot of Love
Ciaran & Danielle’s Stage III, Rev Up - Roeper style!
Elise & Paula’s Stage IV, Mushroom Mansion
Ellen & Blake’s Stage IV, Roeper Collection honoring the school philosophy Stage I Domes “Dots”
Jennifer & Mara’s Stage I, Tic tac toe art and game creation
Jennifer’s Stage I, Love Makes the World Go Round
Kendra & Cor’s Stage I, Traveling the World
Laura & Scott’s Stage IV, Detroit Mural Coasters
Rachel & Grace’s Stage III, A Celebration of Spring
Sarah & Jesi’s Stage II, Roeper Woods Created Art
Elisabeth & Sarah’s Stage III, Dream Box
Venee & Jeannie’s Stage III, Just Smile
Mariann’s Dinner Supporters
Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
Fifth Third Bank
PURVIS & FOSTER
Schwab Charitable
The Bank of America Charitable Foundation
Anonymous Donors
Aaron Sheposh and Nancy McGunn
Ajit Sharma & Pratibha Chauhan
Alana Glass 1997
Alyse Belkin
Amie & Michael Sweet
Andrew & Sarahlin Smith
Arthur Ensroth 1968
Ashley Lowe & Robert Shaya
Benjamin Frank 1998 & Lara Frank
Beth & Jim Vens
Betty Davis
Bill Booth 1971 & Susan Booth
Catherine Gofrank & Curtis Bagne
Cheryl Blau 1980
Christopher & Elizabeth Klee
Christopher Federico & Ljiljana Stanic
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT
2024 Teacher of the Year
Michigan Association for Gifted Children
Sarah Smith, LS Teacher
2024 Middle Level Coach of the Year
Michigan Speech Coaches Inc.
Dan Jacobs, M/US Communications Teacher and Forensics Coach
Distinguished Teacher Honor for outstanding dedication to a student’s education
Nominated by Will Hoover ’21
Rochester Institute of Technology
Andrew Blechman, US Physics Teacher
Clay Thomas & Bessy Despotis
Colleen & Scott Shelton
Curtis Bagne & Catherine Gofrank
David & Andrea Fluent
Diallo & Jameel Montgomery Smith
Don & Kathie Heng
Doug & Amy Hugo
Elisabeth Stayer 2000 & Douglas Stayer
Eric Peterson 1995
Harry Pianko
Ingrid Willenz-Isaacs 1968
Jacob & Natalie Price
Jeffrey Kimpson 2008 & Shani Yapa-Kimpson 2008
Joel & Carol Appel
Joi Patrick
Joseph & Michelle Santos
Kenneth & Sarah Miller
Kyle & Sarah Hermann
Lance & Kineret Gable
Laurence & Emily Wine
Leonard & Bonnie Schemm
Linda & Emery Pence
Linda Vernon & Rob Gotshall
Lori Lutz 1975 & Gregory Gamalski
Marcia Ruff & Thomas Wilkinson
Marie Halpin
Mark & Amy-Beth Fleischer
Mary Ann Yamamoto
Meghan & Philip Stott
Melissa & Daniel Salinas
Miranda Beebe 1984*
Nicole & Nicholas Weibel
Noa & Julian Ofen
Paula Romano & Glynda Krantz
Pierre & Debbie Fuger
Richard & Francesca Westenberg
Robert & Julie Hertzberg
Robert Sims & Denita Banks-Sims
Stacy-Renee Frase
Steven Scott 1974
Veronica Farley-Seybert & Aaron Seybert
Special Thanks to Host Families
Dipak Shah & Sujana Gundlapalli
Jason & Erin Field
Jason McIntosh & Jim Shaffer
Kevin Carlson & Stephanie Diamond
Mykolas Rambus 1996 & Tamara Rambus
Peter & Charlotte Gerrits
Robert & Julie Hertzberg
Scott & Katy Vartanian
Scott Simecek & Kathrina Spyridakis
Stephon & Kellie Bagne
IN YOUR WORDS
JULIE SONG US PARENT
This is our thirteenth year at Roeper. I remember being asked to contribute to the Annual Fund at my first Back-to-School Night. This was our first experience with private school, and we had just made a huge tuition payment, so we were pretty surprised that we were being asked to contribute even more money. But we listened. Three things stood out to us.
1. Roeper understands that gifted children exist across all economic situations; and we agree with the core belief that all gifted children deserve access to a Roeper education and that children from all economic situations have gifts to share.
2. Roeper teachers were committed to making sure our children were engaged, enriched, and loving learning. But if I could do something to make their job just a little bit easier, I wanted to help.
3. The most important thing we learned that night is something that I think a lot of families don’t understand. The amount of money that Roeper can get from outside grants and investments is dependent on whether or not we can show that our own families and staff are invested in Roeper.
So, when I hear every year “it doesn’t matter how much, it just matters that you give,” I know that whether it’s $5 or $5000, the outcome is equally important. I am helping to increase the percentage of families who have invested in our school, and I am doing my part to help show outside investors that I am one of the many families who believe that Roeper is worth investing in.
SARAH DEVRIES STAGE III TEACHER
Donating to the Annual Fund is my way of supporting my beliefs in Roeper and the positive impact it has on the community. The Annual Fund supports me as an educator. Roeper invests in its teachers with world class professional development opportunities both in-house (University of Toronto iThink training) and through courses offered off campus (Harvard Graduate School of Education). Teachers are given the opportunity to learn and implement new curriculum that is relevant to their gifted learners.
DIANA ELSHOFF ALUM TEACHER
Even though I am retired from teaching at Roeper, I still hold dear George and Annemarie Roeper’s unique vision for educating young people. I remember fondly what being part of the Roeper community means. Giving to the Annual Fund is a way that I can honor George and Annemarie’s memory, while helping the school flourish for the new generation of young people.
MARGARET LINKOUS LS PARENT
Ten minutes after setting foot on Roeper’s campus for the first time, I knew I had to find a way to make it work for our family.
Fifteen months later, our three kids are thriving. The individualized magic they experience in their classrooms puts light in their eyes. The safety of an educational and emotional home for our gifted kids puts joy in our hearts.
When we give to the Annual Fund, we support ingenious classroom projects, we help other kids who need a Roeper education get a Roeper education, and we encourage the dynamic innovation and thoughtfulness behind each teacher and staff member’s work to meet our kids where they are and keep them moving forward.
When we give to the Annual Fund, we thank Roeper for all it has given to us.
THANK YOU
Roeper Parent Community
2023-24 LEADERSHIP VOLUNTEERS
Co-Presidents: Jen Oberoi & Annie Yamamoto
Vice President of New Families & Communications: June Cohen
LS Co-Vice Presidents: Stacy Frase & Beth Fienman
MS Vice President: Kristine Vazzano
US Vice President: Julie Gibbs
LS Diversity & Inclusion Chair: Marinelli Brown
M/US Diversity & Inclusion Chair: Adanna Smith
Co-Vice Presidents of Education: Betty Davis & Rebekah Gruber
LS Appreciation Chair: Sarah Guseilo
M/US Appreciation Chair: Emily Abrutyn
M/US Random Acts of Appreciation Chair: Leisl Must
Stage I New Family Liaison: June Cohen
Stage II New Family Liaison: Lindsay Archer
Stage III New Family Liaison: Stephanie Diamond
Stage IV New Family Liaison: Karen Ballentine
6th Grade Family Vice President: Ahlem Diomande
7th Grade Family Co-Vice Presidents: Kennikki and Edmund Jones
8th Grade Family Vice President: Debbie Fuger
9th Grade Family Co-Vice Presidents: Natosha and James Tolbert
10th Grade Family Vice President: Katie Axelarris
11th Grade Family Vice President: Sharon White
12th Grade Family Vice President: Rachel Stafeil
TOUCH POINT “
The annual report edition of Keeping in Touch affords us a great opportunity to look back on the incredible things that Roeper has achieved over the past 12 months, and to recognize the great contributions of time, talent, and treasure from our community that have made those achievements possible.
Our immediate thoughts, of course, go to the financial resources that fuel the school. While as an independent school, our number one source of revenue is the tuition that families pay for their children to attend, that typically represents only about 85% of the funding Roeper requires to operate. Camp also contributes a significant amount, but so too do the generous voluntary contributions made by the community to things like the Annual Fund, the Mariann Hoag Scholarship Dinner, and the MOSAIC Auction, or the proceeds of endowments, themselves the result of contributions made by community members in the past.
To turn that treasure into results, however,
So much of our school’s success is also reliant on the work of volunteers
requires the application of time and talent. While some of that certainly comes in the form of the efforts of Roeper faculty and staff, so much of our school’s success is also reliant on the work of volunteers—parents, alumni, board members—who help to organize and execute everything from Roeperfest to faculty and staff appreciation lunches to the development events themselves.
The content of this report shows just how much can be attained within this community when that all comes together.
BY CHRISTOPHER FEDERICO HEAD OF SCHOOL
