REPORT ON PHILANTHROPY 2022–2023
LETTER FROM THE BOARD CHAIR October 2023
Dear Westmark Community, Every day, I am mindful of the lasting impact that Westmark School has had on my family. As the proud father of Nadia—a Westmark graduate who is now a teaching assistant at her alma mater—I am grateful to the School for empowering students with languagebased learning differences (LD) like Nadia and illuminating what a gift it is to think and learn differently. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I wish to thank the Westmark community for your generosity in 2022– 2023. The School could not fulfill its mission without the philanthropic support of hundreds of parents and guardians, faculty and staff, foundations, and friends. Through these gifts, you make your mark on the lives of our students, ensuring that they experience the joy of learning both in and beyond the classroom. Furthermore, the annual support is critical to sustaining and growing our financial aid program so that school life can be enriched by welcoming students from across the county, no matter the assistance they might need. We are also grateful to those who have donated hours of your time and talent. Through dedicated volunteerism throughout the year, the Westmark Parent Association energizes the School, deepening the bonds of our Westmark family. Finally, I am honored to thank and congratulate the many generous donors who have contributed to the capital campaign funding our Lower School Campus Project. All year long, it has been my privilege to collaborate with the Board, the Administration, and the architects and designers in the planning and building of this landmark facility. It is sure to transform the lives of our youngest learners—and set the pace for Westmark to achieve its vision to transform LD education. I look forward to celebrating with you at the inauguration.
James Kilcourse Chair, Board of Trustees Parent of Nadia ’17
Board of Trustees 2022–2023
James Kilcourse, Chair Nancy Branscombe, Vice-Chair Mara Hofman, Treasurer
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Cordelia Bacher Sweetland Kevin Crummy Anya Goldin Brittany Levinson
Joey Perez Judith Shore Stephen Trilling Alexandra Von Tiergarten
LETTER FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL October 2023
Dear Westmark Family and Friends, As we look forward to marking Westmark School’s 40th anniversary during the 2023–2024 school year, we take pride in how each year at Westmark impacts the lives of students with language-based learning differences (LD). Empowered to pursue and achieve their dreams, our students make their WestMARK again and again. The transformative power of a Westmark education echoed throughout the graduation speeches at the Class of 2023 Commencement Exercises. Katherine Abraham, President of Student Council, shared the various ways the School lifted her up along her academic journey: “Westmark was my life ring when I arrived here. It became my island of love and support during my years here and will be my lighthouse, lighting my way forward and my place of belonging when I look back.” Katherine’s classmate Koby Falconeri reflected on his personal growth since joining Westmark in Grade 5: “I am living proof that nothing changes on its own, and being different is not a bad thing. As a matter of fact, had I not done things differently, I would not be speaking in front of you today.” Fellow graduate Sean Crummy likewise noted how the School helped him realize his goals: “My experience at Westmark truly helped me grow up. It helped me develop my confidence. It helped me show the talent I knew I was always capable of.” The philanthropy of our community is fundamental to shaping the experiences of students like Katherine, Koby, and Sean. Gifts to the School ensure we can enhance our programs; improve our campus; use cutting-edge technology; offer professional learning opportunities that bolster our faculty’s research-based teaching practices; and increase access to the School by funding tuition assistance. Katherine, Koby, Sean, and their classmates have bright futures ahead thanks to our generous community. So too does Westmark School. I am thrilled to celebrate both Westmark’s 40th anniversary and the opening of our new Lower School—our history and our future—in the coming months. The past 40 years have laid the foundation for the possibilities of our growth as a leader in LD education. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to every individual, family, foundation, and business who has invested in Westmark in 2022–2023 and in years past. Your generosity makes a world of difference.
Claudia Koochek Head of School
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LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS PROJECT Capital Campaign
In the summer of 2022, Westmark School broke ground on a new and expanded Lower School. The promise of this long-planned capital project is bold: to create an optimal environment in which to educate and empower our youngest learners with language-based learning differences. The state-of-the-art facility will open in January 2024. Representing a major investment in early intervention, the Lower School Campus Project is the springboard for us to extend our reach and grow our impact. Coupled with strategic efforts to increase tuition assistance, Westmark looks forward to engaging many more neurodiverse children in Grades 2–5 so that they can access our highly specialized, research-based curriculum from an early age and grow in our inclusive, supportive community.
“Claudia Koochek and her team are creating a space that supports calmness, sensory differences, and true learning. If one child, devastated by a onesize-fits-all school, can come enjoy what our kids were given at Westmark, in a brand new building, our contribution to this project will be more than worth it. As St. Luke said, ‘To whom much is given, much will be expected.’” —Ann Donahue, Parent of Ava McGrail ’23 and Leo McGrail
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The following philanthropists have made gifts to the Lower School Campus Project: Veda Adams Ahmanson Foundation Cordelia Bacher Sweetland Gail Bohannon Lily Fukuda Crummy and Kevin Crummy Ann Donahue Caitlin and Christian Donohue David Clark and Sam Elias Mara and Marc Hofman Nancy Branscombe and Ken Kalopsis Sandy and James Kilcourse Sonia and Robert Kirkman Anya Goldin and Alex Klachin Claudia and Joe Koochek
Brittany and Adam Levinson Michelle Lund ’88 Krissy and Joey Perez Laura and Michael Richter Bonnie Lemon and Rod Rozanski The Sharon D. Lund Foundation Judy and David Shore Wendi and Stephen Trilling Alexandra Von Tiergarten Clinton and Dessi Wade Eric Watson Obaida and J. Scott Watt Diane and Richard Weinberg Meredith and Samuel Weiner Amy and Edgar Whitmore III
This list is accurate as of October 20, 2023. As we approach our fund raising goal for the Lower School capital campaign, we welcome the opportunity to chat with anyone who is interested in making a gift. Please contact Claudia Koochek, Head of School, to find a time to meet.
“As parents of a seventh grader who started at Westmark in Lower School, we truly value how early education sets a foundation for lifelong success. The new Lower School will have a profound impact on young learners, providing the space and resources to thrive. We are honored to contribute to this important project.” —Obaida and J. Scott Watt, Parents of Donny
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OUR YEAR IN GIVING
Westmark Fund ..............................................
$667,810
RESTRICTED GIFTS
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Professional Development ..................
$50,000
Tuition Assistance ..........................
$275,000
Other Restricted Gifts ..............
$45,829
Spring Gala .............................
$288,574
Total Number of Gifts
Total Raised ...........................
$1,327,213
862
WESTMARK FUND 2022–2023 We are incredibly grateful for everyone in our community who made their WestMARK in the 2022–2023 school year. Each gift was crucial in fulfilling our mission to transform the lives of our students. Thank you to the parents, guardians, faculty, staff, trustees, and friends who show their support year after year.
Donors by Grade or Constituency Grade 2
Beth and Steven Orsoff
Annalisa and William Clearihue Ana Escalante and Fredy Diaz
Grade 3 Lorig Mushegain
Jessica Raben
Neve Campbell and JJ Feild
Elizabeth Clemmons and Brian Smith
Jacie and Caesar Schwarz
Ben Goldstein
Grade 6
Grade 5
Candice Kominas and Brady Granier
Anonymous (2)
Tina Park-Pesoli and Dominic Pesoli
Janet and Enzo Autiero
Anonymous (2) Dena and John Beck
Cori Schnieber
Leanne Lurie and Reuven Cohen
Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton
Carrie and Matt Dalton
Lauren and Peter Altman
Orna and Ryan Pickens
Wendy and Steve Baldikoski
Sabah and Del Rahman
Jennifer and Kevin Berson
Grade 4 Glisten and Jason Cieslak Megan and Martin Haile Kimberly and Michael Harryman Jamie Prijatel and Andrew Jordan Melissa and Chad Lasdon Elkin Martinez
“Seeing the impact Westmark has made on our child’s learning reinforced our decision to give back. By contributing, Westmark will have greater access to the resources and tools needed to provide the best educational environment. Making a difference in the lives of students is not easy and the impact Westmark makes is a testament to its tremendous faculty, leadership, and contributing community.” —Chad Lasdon, Westmark Fund donor and parent of Paige
Sadie and Johnnie Novello 7
WESTMARK FUND 2022–2023 (continued) Nancy Banks and Andy Buckley Nicole and Dave Cefali Doris and Ramin Daneshgar Sarah Haskins and Geoff Edwards Kenya and Julian Green
Andrea Suchin Jennifer Thomas Obaida and J. Scott Watt Mary Carmen Torres Rodriguez and Jose Zuniga Medina
Grade 7 Anonymous (1)
Jasmine and Steve Sommars Suki and Thomas St. John Dessi and Clinton Wade
Grade 8 Anonymous (1) Natasha and Daniel Belson
Morris Elazar
Tanya and James Del Pozzo
Elise Perer and Jeffrey Kohn
Karine Rosenthal and Bob Fisher
Caitlin and Christian Donohue
Krissy and Ludo Lefebvre
Allison and Chad Geving
Danna and Kevin Gillespie
Sarah and Jeff Levitt
Michelle and Yoram Haviv
Harper and Andrew McDonald
Miura and Brian Kite
Sherry Swanson and David Grannis
Krissy and Joey Perez
Teri and Stephen Levy
Jamie Prijatel and Andrew Jordan
Marisa and Jeff Records
Ilyse and Ronen Levy
Tracy and Ben Samek
Gina and Rene Rodriguez Jr.
Margaret Hunt and Keith Sherry
Pany and Napoleon Rumteen
Dana and Dan Hadl Kim and Carl Hirsch Sonia and Robert Kirkman Catherine Bander and Susan Lindner Bander Sarah Hemphill and Jay Martel Teri Eastwood Molls and Donnie Molls Stephanie and William Murray Seth Meyers and Jonathan Neff Kevin Rex Joseph and Christopher Rice-Shepherd Yvette Silvera and Steve Schweitzer
Suzanne and Brian Watson Marina and Larry Weiss
Grade 9 Anonymous (1) Christina Aguilera Dr. Lillian R. Morris and Dr. Dinesh K. Chhetri Marc Crossman Amy Davis Sarah Lambert and John Dolan Tracy and Greg Forester Elyssa and Craig Furst Jasmine and Moy Gonzalez Nancy Branscombe and Ken Kalopsis Erika and Mike Kemmerer Brittany and Adam Levinson Ellyn and Lorraine Lewis Kate Angelo and Francois Mobasser Gina and Rene Rodriguez Jr. Yvette Silvera and Steve Schweitzer Dennis Anderson and Douglas Sturnick Kevin Swinney Megan and John Tantillo
Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton
Alexandra Von Tiergarten
Margaret Hunt and Keith Sherry
Lorey and Steven Zlotnick
Sally McDonald and Hope Smith
Eric Watson
Grade 10
Cambrien and Nate Snyder
Anonymous (2)
Susan Spencer
Anne Rana Aberle and Matthew Aberle
Dave Stohl Maggie Young and Tim Swan 8
Amanda Swift
Shani and Jeremy Amen Patricia and David Cohen
Tammy Apana-Dianda and Joey Dianda Denise and David Fleming Tracy and Greg Forester Tara and Chris Herrmann
Derek Simpson Marcie W. Simpson Jennifer and Mark Trapnell
Grade 11
Robert Herscu
Anonymous (1)
Jodi and Kurt Jacobsen
Guadalupe Jara and Roberto Cortes
Michelle Agnew and Joanna Johnson
Ann Donahue
Katherine Brown and Rene Mendoza
Jody Katz
Gara and Jason Post
Anne McGrail
Kevin Rex
Dan Pritikin
David Simon
Steffani and Nicholas Pugh
Elizabeth Kate Simpson
Mary and Randy Shrier
Wendi and Stephen Trilling
Derek Simpson
Jen and Andy Wexler
Marcie W. Simpson
Jennifer Wexler
Michele and Tony Strickland
Ellyn and Lorraine Lewis
Elizabeth and Drew Donen
Grace Clark and Andrew Lichtenstein
Leigh and Rich Flisher Elyssa and Craig Furst
Grade 12
Erica Oyama and Ken Marino
Elizabeth Morehead and Martin Hilton
Renata and Joseph Abraham
Heather and Kevin O’Connell
Kristin and Jeffrey Joseff
Eilat and Reeve Benaron
Bonnie Lemon and Roderick Rozanski
Melissa and Mark Kates David Katz
Lily Fukuda Crummy and Kevin Crummy
Amy Sackler Robert Sackler Kaley and Jason Sallade Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton
Sonia and Robert Kirkman Dr. Roberta Kung Ilyse and Ronen Levy Margarita and Michel Lim Anne McGrail
Steven Zubkoff
Bethany and Tom Martin
Kevin Swinney Stephanie and Frank Tavelman
Faculty and Staff Anonymous (2) Jesus Amador
Ann Donahue
Didi Anofienem
Alex and Riccardo Falconeri
Johnnie Arevalo
Nancy and Dan Grodnik Barbara and Robert Jesuele
Viviana and Rick Armstrong Patty Barrows Jeannine Bass 9
WESTMARK FUND 2022–2023 (continued) Evelyn Betancourth
Heather Eglash
Stacey and Marc Blackwell
Margot Fitzsimmons
Elena Bonomo
Thomas Flibotte
Jenny Boone
Doug Gardner
Ed Brady
Charlotte Gjedsted
Stephanie Braun
Ali Guerrero
Jordan Bricker
Gus Guerrero
Molly Bricker
Lisa Hanish
Erika Briks-Stafford
Cynthia Hersch
Leigh Bulkeley
Andrew Hill
David Burns
Avery Hill
Samantha Campbell
Lisa and Joshua Hunt
Jessica Cano
Jay Johnson
Julie and Cris Carpenter
Jodie and Alex Katofsky
Xiomara Lanza
Joanne Tan
Jessica Cattani
Jelani Kelly
Kevin Lara
Andrea Taylor
Juan Chavez
Elizabeth Kenah
Esther and Steve Taylor
Katharine Gibson and Albert Dayan
Sam Keslowitz
Lauren and Mary-Ellen Lavigne
Mario De Los Santos
Beverly and Barry Kurtz
Johanna Denis Paul Eamnarangkool
Claudia and Joe Koochek Jenna and Christopher Lamica
Sherry Luchette Mary Beth Ludden Valerie Mazzanti Marissa DeSiena and Kevin McDaniels
Mary Vukadinovich Tricia and Erin Xavier Haley Yamamoto Marla and Dave Yukelson
Cindy and Bret Morales
Jessica Zuñiga
Kevin North Katie O’Connor
Foundations and Corporations
Mina Park
Ahmanson Foundation
Sarah Pavsner Mael Katia Perez
The Angelo Family Charitable Foundation
Nydia Pineda
Blackrock Capital
Lael Ryan
Bank of America Charitable Gift Fund
Stephanie Salinas
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Mitzy Velez
Wende and Craig Schoof
Brad Lemons Foundation
Erin and Frank Shapiro
The Capstone Foundation
Mia Cariño and Erik Shveima
David & Judy Shore Foundation Inc.
Carrie and Matt Slatoff Danny Slavens
Disney Employee Matching Gifts Program
Emily and John Stuver
DriveWise Auto
Stephanie Sztanski
Freddie Mac
Bridges Design Group
Friends & Family Automotive Inc.
Nanette and Burt Forester
Genentech
Jackie Greene
Graham Holdings Company
Judy Angelo Hart
LOSAM Fund Medtronic Foundation National Philanthropic Trust
Gina Kelsch Nancy and Larry Levitt Pat Matsuno Lydia McCarter
Nike Inc.
Irene and Marv Perer
Point C LLC
Linda and Robert Pulsinelli
Ornest Family Foundation
Trustees
Krissy and Joey Perez
Cordelia Bacher Sweetland
Judy and David Shore
Lily Fukuda Crummy and Kevin Crummy
Wendi and Stephen Trilling
UnitedHealth Group
Doreen Braverman and Stuart Rudnick
Watson Family Foundation
Diane Seaman
Mara and Marc Hofman
Jan and Peter Shames
Grandparents and Special Friends
Justin Smith
Nancy Branscombe and Ken Kalopsis
Past Trustees
Windsong Foundation
Elaine and Jerry Braffman
Frances Trigo
Anya Goldin and Alex Klachin
Ruth and Michael Weintraub
Brittany and Adam Levinson
Schwab Charitable Fund The Sharon D. Lund Foundation
Janet Clark
Celia and Stephen Rosenthal
Justin Thompson
Sandy and James Kilcourse
Alexandra Von Tiergarten
Anonymous (1) Jody Katz Sonia Kirkman Dr. Roberta Kung Barry Kurtz Dave Stohl
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WESTMARK FUND 2022–2023 (continued) Donors by Level of Support Visionary ($100,000 and up) Nancy Branscombe and Ken Kalopsis
Innovator ($50,000–$99,999)
Sally McDonald and Hope Smith Dave Stohl
Patron ($10,000–$14,999) Patricia and David Cohen
Sonia and Robert Kirkman
Lily Fukuda Crummy and Kevin Crummy
Benefactor ($25,000–$49,999)
Robert Herscu Anya Goldin and Alex Klachin
Carrie and Matt Dalton
Brittany and Adam Levinson
Dr. Roberta Kung
Ann Donahue
Anne McGrail
Kate Angelo and Francois Mobasser
Gara and Jason Post
Caitlin and Christian Donohue
Brad Lemons Foundation
Marisa and Jeff Records
Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton
Marina and Larry Weiss
David Simon
Champion ($15,000–$24,999) Judy Hart Angelo Cordelia Bacher Sweetland Elizabeth Morehead and Martin Hilton
Wendi and Stephen Trilling Obaida and J. Scott Watt
Leadership ($5,000–$9,999) Christina Aguilera Eilat and Reeve Benaron
Leigh and Rich Flisher Sherry Swanson and David Grannis Mara and Marc Hofman Melissa and Mark Kates Sandy and James Kilcourse Miura and Brian Kite Krissy and Joey Perez Christopher and Joseph Rice-Shepherd Bonnie Lemon and Roderick Rozanski Alexandra Von Tiergarten
Stephanie and William Murray Derek Simpson Marcie W. Simpson Cambrien and Nate Snyder Dennis Anderson and Douglas Sturnick Dessi and Clinton Wade
Supporter ($1–$2,499) Anonymous (8) Renata and Joseph Abraham Jesus Amador
Suzanne and Brian Watson
Susannah and Jeremy Amen
Eric Watson
Didi Anofienem
Partner ($2,500–$4,999)
Johnnie Arevalo Viviana and Rick Armstrong
Lauren and Peter Altman
Janet and Enzo Autiero
Sarah Lambert and John Dolan
Patty Barrows
Tracy and Greg Forester Michelle Agnew and Joanna Johnson Catherine Bander and Susan Lindner Bander 12
Teri Eastwood Molls and Donnie Molls
Jeannine Bass Dena and John Beck Natasha and Daniel Belson Jennifer and Kevin Berson Evelyn Betancourth
Stacey and Marc Blackwell Elena Bonomo Jenny Boone Edward Brady Elaine and Jerry Braffman Stephanie Braun Jordan Bricker Molly Bricker Robyn and James Bridges Erika Briks-Stafford Nancy Banks and Andy Buckley Leigh Bulkeley
Guadalupe Jara and Roberto Cortes Marc Crossman Doris and Ramin Daneshgar Evan Datry Amy and Rich Davis Katharine Gibson and Albert Dayan
Radley Fleming Thomas Flibotte Nanette and Burt Forester Elyssa and Craig Furst
Mario De Los Santos
Doug Gardner
Tanya and James Del Pozzo
Allison and Chad Geving
Johanna Denis
Julie Lee and Michael Gibson
Jamie Prijatel and Andrew Jordan Kristin and Jeffrey Joseff Jodie and Alex Katofsky Amanda and Craig Katz Jody Katz Jelani Kelly Gina Kelsch
Tammy Apana-Dianda and Joey Dianda
Danna and Kevin Gillespie
Elizabeth Kenah
Charlotte Gjedsted
Samantha Keslowitz
Ben Goldstein
Jessica Cano
Ana Escalante and Fredy Diaz
Elise Perer and Jeffrey Kohn
Julie and Cris Carpenter
Elizabeth and Drew Donen
Jessica Cattani
Susan and Brian Doolittle
Nicole and David Cefali
Paul Eamnarangkool
Juan Chavez
Sarah Haskins and Geoff Edwards
David Burns Samantha Campbell
Jasmine and Moy Gonzalez Graham Holdings Company Candice Kominas and Brady Granier
Beverly and Barry Kurtz Jenna and Christopher Lamica Xiomara Lanza
Jackie Greene
Kevin Lara
Heather Eglash
Nancy and Dan Grodnik
Melissa and Chad Lasdon
Glisten and Jason Cieslak
Morris Elazar
Ali Guerrero
Janet Clark
Alex and Riccardo Falconeri
Gus Guerrero
Lauren and Mary-Ellen Lavigne
Neve Campbell and JJ Feild
Megan and Martin Haile
Dr. Lillian R. Morris and Dr. Dinesh K. Chhetri
William Clark Annalisa and William Clearihue Leanne Lurie and Reuven Cohen
Dana and Dan Hadl
Margot Fitzsimmons
Lisa Hanish
Denise and David Fleming
Kimberly and Michael Harryman Michelle and Yoram Haviv Tara and Chris Herrmann Cynthia Hersch Andrew Hill Avery Hill Kim and Carl Hirsch Lisa and Joshua Hunt
Abbey Lenzie Larry and Nancy Levitt Ilyse and Ronen Levy Teri and Stephen Levy Ellyn and Lorraine Lewis Grace Clark and Andrew Lichtenstein Margarita and Michel Lim Sherry Luchette Mary Beth Ludden Erica Oyama and Ken Marino
Jodi and Kurt Jacobsen
Sarah Hemphill and Jay Martel
Barbara and Robert Jesuele
Bethany and Tom Martin Elkin Martinez
Kristen and Jay Johnson
Pat Matsuno 13
WESTMARK FUND 2022–2023 (continued) Valerie Mazzanti
Jessica Raben
Lydia McCarter
Sabah and Del Rahman
Marissa DeSiena and Kevin McDaniels
Gina and Rene Rodriguez Jr.
Harper and Andrew McDonald
Celia and Stephen Rosenthal
Cindy and Bret Morales Lorig Mushegain
Doreen Braverman and Stuart Rudnick
Seth Meyers and Jonathan Neff
Pany and Napoleon Rumteen
Kevin North
Lael Ryan
Sadie and Johnnie Novello
Amy Sackler
Heather and Kevin O’Connell
Robert Sackler Stephanie Salinas
Mia Cariño and Erik Shveima Elizabeth Kate Simpson
Ruth and Michael Weintraub
Carrie and Matt Slatoff
Jen and Andy Wexler
Danny Slavens
Jennifer Wexler
Justin Smith
Tricia and Erin Xavier
Jasmine and Steve Sommars
Haley Yamamoto
Katie O’Connor
Wende and Craig Schoof
Mina Park
Jacie and Caesar Schwarz
Sarah Pavsner Mael Irene and Marv Perer
Yvette Silvera and Steve Schweitzer
Katia Perez
Diane Seaman
Tina Park-Pesoli and Dominic Pesoli
Donna and Rick Selby Jan and Peter Shames
Orna and Ryan Pickens
Michele and Tony Strickland
Erin and Frank Shapiro
Nydia Pineda
Emily and John Stuver
Dan Pritikin
Margaret Hunt and Keith Sherry
Andrea Suchin
Steffani and Nicholas Pugh
Judy and David Shore
Maggie Young and Tim Swan
Linda and Robert Pulsinelli
Mary and Randy Shrier
Amanda Swift
Susan Spencer Suki and Thomas St. John
Kevin Swinney
“I volunteer for the Westmark Fund because I know how important it is to share our story about how Westmark changed my son’s and our family’s life. I also enjoy hearing about other family’s experiences. Even though I feel uncomfortable asking families to make a contribution, I know these funds make a huge difference to all of our kids’ experiences at Westmark.” —Jamie Prijatel, Westmark Fund Ambassador and parent of Samantha and Luke Jordan
Stephanie Sztanski Joanne Tan Megan and John Tantillo Stephanie and Frank Tavelman
Marla and Dave Yukelson Lorey and Steven Zlotnick Steven Zubkoff Mary Carmen Torres Rodriguez and Jose Zuniga Medina Jessica Zuñiga
Westmark Fund Ambassadors Renata Abraham Nancy Branscombe Caitlin Donohue
Andrea Taylor
Jodi Jacobsen
Esther and Steve Taylor
Bonnie Lemon
Jennifer Thomas
Anne McGrail
Justin Thompson
Jamie Prijatel
Jennifer and Mark Trapnell
Steve Trilling
Frances Trigo Mitzy Velez
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Mary Vukadinovich
Alexandra Von Tiergarten
RESTRICTED GIFTS Tuition Assistance
Class of 2023 Gift
Thank you to the following donors for their years of dedication to ensuring children from across Los Angeles, regardless of their means, are able to benefit from a Westmark education.
We are grateful to the parents of the Class of 2023 for their gift of a bench, in honor of their children, for future Westmark students to enjoy. We look forward to watching the Class of 2023 as they enter the next chapter of their lives.
Nancy Branscombe and Ken Kalopsis Windsong Trust
Professional Development Our faculty and staff are able to hone their practice and implement the latest research-based methodologies thanks to the Sharon D. Lund Foundation’s commitment to supporting professional learning since 2007. The Sharon D. Lund Foundation
Renata and Joseph Abraham Eilat and Reeve Benaron Lily Fukuda Crummy and Kevin Crummy Alexandra and Riccardo Falconeri Tanya and Brent Fogel Stefania and John Greco Nancy and Dan Grodnik Barbara and Robert Jesuele Lauren and Ross Landsbaum Bethany and Thomas Martin Anne McGrail Lane Peskin Dan Pritikin Steffani and Nicholas Pugh Mary and Randy Shrier Derek Simpson Michele and Tony Strickland Kevin Swinney Stephanie and Frank Tavelman Melissa and Eric Von Hoffman
Artist-in-Residence Programming Thank you to the donors who made a heartfelt gift to celebrate the life of Middle School student Alexandra Hvolka, who tragically passed in February of 2023. Alex was a talented artist, and her family requested that gifts in her memory support Westmark’s program to bring artists into the classroom to share their expertise. Cozen & O’Connor Rita and Frank Gooch Sandra and Carl Langhammer Jr. Duane Montgomery Jeanette Rodriguez Paul Rutter
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this Report on Philanthropy is accurate and inclusive. If there is a mistake in the published information, please accept our apology and contact us at advancement@ westmarkschool.org so that we can correct it in future editions.
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SPRING GALA 2023
Like Totally Westmark! An 80s Spring Gala was a rad righteous success—all thanks to the generosity of our community. Gala Sponsors The Angelo Family Charitable Foundation Lily Fukuda Crummy and Kevin Crummy
Helena and Arash Alipour Lauren and Peter Altman Jessica and David Amron
Mara and Marc Hofman
The Angelo Family Charitable Foundation
Sandy and James Kilcourse Sonia and Robert Kirkman Brittany and Adam Levinson Kate Angelo and Frank Mobasser Laine Siklos Obaida and J. Scott Watt Marina and Larry Weiss
! K R A M T WES An 80s Spring
Gala
Paddle Raise Donors
Leigh and Rich Flisher
Nancy Branscombe and Ken Kalopsis
Like, Totally
Wendy and Steve Baldikoski
Sarah Lambert and John Dolan
Nancy Branscombe and Ken Kalopsis
Sarah Haskins and Geoffrey Edwards
The Kaplan Family Foundation
Morris Elazar
Sandy and James Kilcourse
Susan Paley Fisher and Kevin Fisher
Sonia and Robert Kirkman
Tracy and Greg Forester
Elena Bonomo
Brandi and Josh Fraser
Stephanie Braun
Megan and Julie Galles
Jordan Bricker Robyn and James Bridges Jessica Cattani Lily Fukuda Crummy and Kevin Crummy Tammy Apana-Dianda and Joseph Dianda
Monica and Mauricio Hernandez Robert Herscu Elizabeth Morehead and Martin Hilton Jay Johnson Jamie Prijatel and Andrew Jordan
Miura and Brian Kite Anya Goldin and Alex Klachin Claudia and Joe Koochek Melissa and Chad Lasdon Brittany and Adam Levinson Jonnelle and Chad Lewin Amanda and Shawn Loesser Leyla MacLean
The paddle raise helped Westmark secure a new ceramics kiln space (left), new scoreboards for our Sports Court and Field (right), and upgraded technology for our students and faculty. 16
Marta Harmon
Kate Angelo and Frank Mobasser
Michele and Tony Strickland
Emma and Gareth Bale MBE
Dionne Nosek and Michael Mulvihill
Emily and John Stuver
Natasha and Daniel Belson
Nicole Hay (Jakeez & Nicolz)
Stephanie Sztanski
Joseph Berman (Hard Rock Hotel San Diego)
Monica and Mauricio Hernandez
Brianna Berry (Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village)
Kelly Souders and John Huey
Stephanie and William Murray
Esther and Steve Taylor
Lorig Mushegain
Wendi and Stephen Trilling
Kevin North
Alexandra Von Tiergarten
Marisa and Jeff Records
Dessislava and Clinton Wade
Amanda and Lior Regenstreif
Suzanne and Brian Watson
Benjamin Rodriguez
Marla and Dave Yukelson
Toni and Derek Roeder
Mary Carmen Torres Rodriguez and Jose Zuniga Medina
Sunday and Travis Salter Tracy and Ben Samek Wende and Craig Schoof
Gifts in Kind
Jacie and Caesar Schwarz
Anne Rana Aberle and Matthew Aberle
Mia Cariño and Erik Shveima Smart & Final Charitable Foundation
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Brent’s Deli
In-N-Out Burger
The Broad
Lea Newton and Anthony Jacquet (Claudine Artisan Kitchen and Bakeshop)
Patricia and David Cohen Christian Corben Costco Wholesale Cronies Sports Grill Caitlin and Christian Donohue Layne Ergas (Omnilux)
Bianca Akbiyik (Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum)
Ana Escalante (Quetzalli Jewelry)
Aquarium of the Pacific
Robert Felde (Pali Adventures Summer Camp)
Elizabeth Clemmons and Brian Smith
Art’s Delicatessen Restaurant
Jasmine and Stephen Sommars
Jose Ascencio (The Churro Man)
Susan Spencer
Wendy and Steve Baldikoski
Suki and Thomas St. John
Michael Bickford (Miracle Springs Resort & Spa)
Four Sisters Collection William Frankenstein Gelson’s Markets Ilene Haller (BBC Studios)
Amber Jamal (Coral Tree Cafe) Susanne Jeffars (Signet Love Inspires Foundation) Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams Nancy Branscombe and Ken Kalopsis Amanda and Craig Katz Kendra Scott Kimble Center for Intimate Cosmetic Surgery William Kohne (Hugo’s Restaurants) 17
SPRING GALA 2023 (continued) Landry’s Inc.
Toni and Derek Roeder
Larsen’s Restaurants
Mandy Rogers (Richardson Portraits)
Laugh Factory Sarah and Jeff Levitt
Sarah Rose (McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams)
Brian Lin (CuboAi)
Rositas Creations
Los Angeles Philharmonic Association
Santa Barbara Zoo
Scott Mehlman (Label Daddy)
Cori Schnieber
Meri Cherry Art Studio
Jill Serup (Wood Ranch BBQ)
Ben Goldstein
Joanne Ross and Will Merrill (Majestic Tree Co.)
Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton
Jasmine Gonzalez
Elaine and Alberto Morello (Olio Cucina Inc.)
Skirball Cultural Center
Jodi Jacobsen
Carrie and Matt Slatoff
Lauren Altman Nicole Cefali Annalisa Clearihue
Kurt Jacobsen Monica Hernandez
Motif Medical
SONOS
MOXI The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation
Kirin Sundher (Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center)
Stephanie and William Murray
Ika Taft (More Than Waffles)
Oriental Trading Company
Sunday Salter
Total Wine & More
Travis Salter
Daniel Park (Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa)
Underwood Family Farms
Cori Schnieber
Gloria Pink (Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs) Carlos Rodriguez (Hair Color by Carlos)
18
mmittee
Co Spring Gala
Universal Studios Hollywood Sarah Weinstock Wheel Fun Rentals
Veronica Penn-Turner Rachel Perry Jamie Prijatel
Elizabeth Kate Simpson Andrea Suchin
PARENT LEADERSHIP 2022–2023
Westmark Parent Association (WPA) WPA Leadership Council Sherin Guirguis Jodi Jacobsen Heather O’Connell Veronica Penn-Turner Gina Rodriguez Steve Sommars WPA Volunteer Coordinator Veronica Penn-Turner
Grade Level Ambassadors Grades 2/3: Annalisa Clearihue, Ledette Gambini Grade 4:
Jessica Raben
Grade 5:
Toni Roeder, Alyssa Richardson
Grade 6:
Nicole Cefali, Tracy Samek, Jonnelle Lewin
Grade 7:
Steve and Jasmine Sommars
Grade 8:
Admission Ambassadors Renata Abraham
Stephanie Murray
Glisten Cieslak
Sadie Novello
Jason Cieslak
Heather O’Connell
Stephanie Murray, Caitlin Donohue
Ana Escalante
Veronica Penn-Turner
Ben Goldstein
Jamie Prijatel
Grade 9:
Veronica Penn-Turner
Sarah Haskins
Kaley Sallade
Grade 10:
Veronica Penn-Turner
Chad Lasdon
Cori Schnieber
Grade 11:
Elizabeth Kate Simpson
Melissa Lasdon
Grade 12:
Renata Abraham
Anne McGrail
Elizabeth Kate Simpson
“There’s an almost indescribable feeling when you receive that first report card from Westmark. The trepidation you’ve felt in the past is replaced with joy as you read that your child is a delight to have in class. You read comment after comment that makes the tears well up in your eyes because your child, who up until this point has had difficulty and been difficult in class, has now found their place. That report card, and the newly acquired smile on my son’s face when he talks about school, is why I choose to give back to the Westmark community.” —Ben Goldstein, Admission Ambassador and parent of Zach 19
OUR MISSION Westmark School is a creative and supportive college preparatory school dedicated to educating, empowering, and celebrating students with distinct learning styles, providing the tools necessary to achieve successful and fulfilling futures.
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