Tiffany Alrefae Head of School
Brittany Allen-Albright Assistant Head of School
Mitchell Cox Dean of Faculty
Florida DeVaul-Dudley Learning Specialist
Lauryn Ewing Social Work Intern
Christopher Gloetzel Asst. Director of Development
Bret Greene Director of Finance & Operations
Spencer Hubbard Development Intern
QuRita Hunter Director of Graduate Support
Jim Baker, Chairman CEO/Founder, Sumus Inc
Manal El-Ramly Community Volunteer
Mike Enright CFO, Atlantic Research Group
Polly Hardie The Alliance for Neighborhood Prosperity New Orleans, LA
Mark Higgins President Emeritus, Hall-Wyne Funeral Service
Sabion Kelley Fifth Grade Teacher
India Little STEAM Teacher
Kevin Mahoney Asst. Head of School: Admissions & Advancement
Linda Mitchell Humanities Teacher
Ryann Mitchell Math Teacher
Tyme Nunn School Social Worker
Jeanetta Powell Music Teacher
Orin Robinson Dean of Students
Jasmyne Thomas Office Manager
Brendan Moylan COO, Sports Endeavors
Deven Patel Principal, Narsi Properties
Harrison Shannon Consultant, Public Housing
Ruby Thompkins Information Manager, Duke University Police Department
Stephfon Walton Executive Advocate, IBM
As we reflect on another year of growth and achievement at Durham Nativity School, I am inspired by the profound impact our twelve-year journey has on the young men at our school The twelve-year journey, from fifth grade through college graduation, is a testament to the power of education to create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the classroom.
Your generous contributions have been instrumental in fueling this ripple effect. Your support empowers us to amplify, uplift, celebrate, and empower our young men to dream big, strive to excel, and never give up Our rigorous academic program, coupled with our learner-centered and whole-child approach to education, fosters wellrounded young men who are prepared to succeed in high school, college, and beyond.
This Annual Impact Report highlights the remarkable achievements of our students and the unwavering dedication of our faculty and staff It is a celebration of the ripple effect of our collective work, as our graduates continue to make their mark on the world, inspiring their families and communities. Through their successes, they demonstrate the transformative power of education and the enduring impact of the Durham Nativity experience.
Tiffany E Alrefae Head of School
Durham Nativity School provides an excellent education for young men, empowering them to make a difference in the world.
Dear Durham Nativity Community,
Another year has gone by, and we are so proud of what we have accomplished as a school In June, we ended our school year with a joyous graduation where we honored the eighth-grade class with pride and gratitude knowing they are embarking on the next step of their journey where they will do wonderful things in their new schools. Our mission continues to equip our students with confidence, humility, gratitude, and intelligence as they go off into their next phase of education. As we are a small school with all the benefits of a great education, we recognize our young men are going off into an environment that is much bigger and more diverse Today, we cannot simply rely on a good education to ensure our students are prepared for high school, college, and beyond.
We continue to meet the needs of our students by providing unparalleled resources, as you will note from our financials, but every year presents a challenge. As a result, we have staffed our advancement office led by Kevin Mahoney and over time we are confident Durham Nativity will be able to offer additional resources to our graduates as they move through high school, college, or trade schools. In parallel, we have added more resources to recruiting for us to educate and equip more students to go out and do remarkable things.
Every year our head of school, Tiffany Alrefae, and our devoted staff overcome obstacles to deliver a high-quality well-rounded education to our young men It has been a pleasure serving our young men and our community. As always, we thank you for your support and look forward the enhancing our relationship with every one of you.
Sincerely,
Jim Baker Board Chair
GIVING AT A GLANCE
$1,159,443
$1,939
Giving Revenue 494 Gifts
Average Gift
$ 241,000 Grant Revenue $1,811,212
Total Revenue*
We are grateful for the following organizations whose grants enhanced our programming:
Oak Foundation
Thomas Kenan Charitable Trust
The Durham Sports Club
The Forest at Duke
Westminster Presbyterian Church of Durham
Chairman’s Circle
($25,000+)
Anonymous (2)
Jim & Colleen Baker
Mark Higgins
Jenny Lillian Semans
Koortbojian Trust
The McMichael
Family Foundation
The Mychal Paul Foundation
Randleigh Foundation
Yeargan Foundation
Ambassador Circle
($10,000-$24,999)
Alpha Tau Boule
Roger G. Brooks
The Mary Duke
Biddle Foundation
Marcia Carpenter
Stephen & Kathi Eason
Sarah K Fish
Thomas S Kenan, III Foundation
Robert King
Carolyn W London
Eugene Oddone & Grace Couchman
Todd Webster
Blue and Gold Circle
($5,000-$9,999)
Anonymous
Durham Sports Club
Thomas S. Kenan, III
Rick & Jan Helfer
Evelyn D Schmidt Charitable Trust
Helen Harris
Camille Blommer
Erik Paulson & Kathi Merritt
Dan Hill
Mike & Allison Lappin
Marvin Barnes
Charles, Jr & Jean Wilson
John & Bernadette Page
Maria Evans
Peter Fioretti
Trey Daniels
Tiger Circle
($1,000-$4,999)
John & Sally Bugg
Linda Cendales
Earl and Margaret Chesson
Croasdaile Village
Resident Association
Mark Fekaris
S&C Harvest Foundation
Bernard H Frei
Wade & Kay Gresham
Helen Harris
Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church
Doug & Stefanie Kahn
William “Terry” & Noreen Kane
Doug & Carol Kelly
John & Peggy Murray
James & Elise Nunley
Timothy & Lori Rowe
Jeffrey W Scales
Amie Schwartz
Maura Sullivan
Charles Viles
Jeff & Leigh Vittert
Kirk & Jana Wagenseller
Stephfon & Debra Walton
Suzanne Wasiolek
David Wright
Peggy Wynn
Friendship Circle (Up to $1,000)
Anonymous (7)
Manal Abdelmalek
Obinna Adibe
Tiffany Alrefae
Kathryn M. Andolsek
Araneda and Stroud
Immigration Law Group
Maria Arias
David & Claudia Attarian
W Baker III
Bes & Stephen Baldwin
Gary & Nell Ban
Jerry & Sandy Barker
John Bell & Judy Whisnant
Friendship Circle (Up to $1,000)
Austin & Lola Bennett
Ellen Bennett
Michael Berkoben
William Bernard
Karen R Berutti
Jim & Martha Bick
Carolyn Blake
John Blake
David & Nancy Blevins
James & Maria Bowie
William & Anne Bradford
Martha B Brame
Adrian & Donna Brooks
Karen Brown
Robert Buchanan
Jeff Burch
Andrew Burke
Stone Bros & Byrd
Amy and Ray Cabot
Lydia Califf
Bernie Cameron
Nell B. Cant
Chris Cecil
Susan Chandler
Brant Chesson
Anthony Clay
Thomas & Janet Clegg
Harvey & Sandra Cohen
Virginia Cole
The Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro
Joseph B Conahan
Summer Covington
Mitchell Cox
Robert Crabill
Dottie Craige
Michael D'Ercole
Carolyn Davidson
Ellen Davis
George M. Davis
Peter & Desiree Denton
Gloria K. Dewey
Marilyn Disco
Derek Duin
Harrison's early days on the board coincided with a difficult period for DNS, when it was housed in a small church on Angier Avenue and faced significant financial challenges “We were figuring out how to keep the doors open, ” Harrison says, remembering how making payroll was a constant worry. Yet, he remained committed, understanding that the school was in its infancy and would require patience and perseverance. In time, Harrison witnessed the school's rise from those tough beginnings to a well-established institution with a strong foundation, evident in the success stories of its graduates. “Seeing those boys come back after they’ve graduated, giving back to the school it’s a full-circle moment,” he notes with pride For him, this is what defines DNS’s legacy: “It’s not just about getting a diploma, it’s about fostering a lifelong sense of service.”
Thoughtful Leadership and Enduring Legacy
Friendship Circle (Up to $1,000)
Andrea Dunk
Sid DuPont
Richard J Dwane
Howard Eisenson
Margery Enberg
Claren & Wes Englebreth
Michael Enright
Tomeico Faison
John Falletta
Michael Feiler
Fisher Wealth Management
Nancy Fontes
Julie Fowler
Janet Gable
Christine Gendron
Greg Georgiade
Marco & Lucia Giancroce
Louis Grabarek
John R. Graham
Augustus Grant
Kay Gresham
Melinda Grier
Stephen Griffin
Christy and Jim Gudaitis
Elieen M Guse
Carl Hamill
Robert Harrison
Bruce N Harrod
Donna Hatcher
Judith Hawkes
Fancy Hogan
Susan Hulka
Richard & Sally Keener
Andrew Kelly
Jeffrey Kiesel
Leigh Ann Klee
Michael R Knowles
William Kodros
William Lalor
Deborah Lane
Steve Lang
Libby Lang
Jennifer Lawson
Howard Lee
Shelly Leyner
David Lindquist
Patrick Long
Jarvis I. Martin
Joseph Maxwell
Eleanor K. McCann
Wendy McCorkle
Varnell D McDonald-Fletcher
Janet McGough-Csarny
Dolores McGurkin
Paul McGurkin
Dennis McHugh
James McNamara
Dermot McQuarrie
Peter Meehan
Charlotte Merriweather
Leon Meyers
Dennis Milko
Robyn Miller
Kevin Montgomery
Carol Morrissey
Paul Mosca
Lois Oliver
John Paat
Swing Pals
John Perry
Robert Peter
Kaola Phoenix
Mary Pickard
Charles Pitman
Jennifer Player
Sims Preston
Rich Preyer
Timothy Price
Sara-Jane Raines
Maggie Ramsey
The Reason Research LLC
Charles and Katherine Register
Margaret Rich
Arthur Rogers
Susan K. Rohde
E.T. Rollins, Jr and Frances P.
Rollins Foundation
Susan Ross
Mary Ruegg
John Scanlin
Henry Scherich
Lloyd Schmeidler
Harrison Shannon, Jr
Jill Sharp
Andrew Short
The Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro
The National Christian Foundation
The Network for Good
The Ruby Family Fund
Emily Hull
Lisa Humphreys Jack Hunnell
Gretchen and John Hyde
Frederick Hyer, Jr.
John Inman Deborah
Jakubs Brian Jenkins
John David Jewelers
Marilyn H. Johns
Lee Johnson, Jr
Mary & Rob Kaler Christopher Kane
Jeanne Murray
Nancy H. Myers
Carl Nassib
Roberto Nava
Francis Neelon
John Nelson
Susan Norman
Nufarm Americas Inc
J.M. O'Sullivan
Kenneth Olden
The Silverback Foundation
Michael Sketch
Linda Skuns
Julie Srodes
Ellen C. Stanley
Geoffrey B. Stearns
Rosalie Steele
Beril Steiner
Harrison's early days on the board coincided with a difficult period for DNS, when it was housed in a small church on Angier Avenue and faced significant financial challenges “We were figuring out how to keep the doors open, ” Harrison says, remembering how making payroll was a constant worry. Yet, he remained committed, understanding that the school was in its infancy and would require patience and perseverance. In time, Harrison witnessed the school's rise from those tough beginnings to a well-established institution with a strong foundation, evident in the success stories of its graduates. “Seeing those boys come back after they’ve graduated, giving back to the school it’s a full-circle moment,” he notes with pride For him, this is what defines DNS’s legacy: “It’s not just about getting a diploma, it’s about fostering a lifelong sense of service.”
Thoughtful Leadership and Enduring Legacy
Robert Stevens
Phyllis Supple
Edward Sutton
John Swinney
Ann Taylor
Mary Temo
Laura Thomas
Ruby Thompkins
Jitendra Trivedi
Gina Upchurch
Martha Urbaniak
Elizabeth B. Vannelle
Ricci Vernon
Drayton Virkler
Samuel Warburton
Ben Weaver
West Queen Studio
Marianne White
William Wilcox
Anne Williams
Elaine Williamson
Will Willimon
James/Carole Wilson Rachael Wilson
Lori Winters
Kristin K. Wohlfert Christopher
Woods Will Yancy Yield Giving
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our friends, family, and community partners who have generously supported Durham Nativity School through their annual contributions. These donations have made a significant impact between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024 We strive to acknowledge all contributions here; however, should there be any oversight, please reach out to our Advancement Office at kmahoney@durhamnativity.org or call 919-597-7794.
We honor the cherished memories of our esteemed donors and long-standing staff members who have passed. We remember them not only for their contributions but also for their profound impact on the lives of our students, shaping a legacy of education and opportunity that endures beyond their time with us. Their memory continues to inspire and guide us as we uphold the values they so ardently supported.
JOHN BLAKE
VOLUNTEER & DONOR
NOVEMBER 11, 1954-MARCH 23, 2024
KATHRYN DUPREE
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
MAY 21, 1945- NOVEMBER 6, 2023
DAN HILL, III
FOUNDING BOARD MEMBER, DONOR, COMMUNITY ADOVOCATE, & FUNDRAISER
SEPTEMBER 3, 1944-JUNE 14, 2024
FORMER BOARD MEMBER & DONOR
JULY 30 1943-MAY 21, 2024
FORMER BOARD MEMBER & DONOR
APRIL 3, 1942-OCTOBER 28, 2023
Every investment in Durham Nativity School empowers our educators with the resources to transform the lives of our young men. Families choose DNS because they believe their son will thrive in our small, supportive classrooms, guided by our dedicated faculty who are committed to accelerating academic growth, celebrating individuality, and inspiring a life of service. Fifth-grader Jace and his family sought a school where he could flourish academically and emerge as a leader. Elia Fuentes, mother of eighth-grader Dennis, is grateful that DNS has given her son the opportunity to dream big and become the first in their family to pursue
Jace
Dennis
DNS has made me more excited about learning. I hope to go to boarding school and someday become a lawyer.
-Dennis
Charles Cook (Class of 2017), a senior at North Carolina A&T State University, embodies the spirit of service and paying it forward that Durham Nativity fosters. His experience at DNS inspired him to return as a lead reading teacher at our Jenny Koortbojian Summer Reading Program. Cook’s friendly personality and calm demeanor created a positive atmosphere for both campers and counselors As he reflects on his experience, he shares, “I learned the importance of effective communication when it came to leading the campers and co-workers.” After graduating, Cook plans to pursue a second degree in Atmospheric Science. His dedication to giving back and making a difference is a testament to the lasting impact of his time at Durham Nativity
During high school, a second wave of support propels our students toward their dreams. 96% of our graduates initially attend private college preparatory high schools, thanks to merit and need-based scholarships. QuRita Hunter, our Director of Graduate Support, guides students through the college application process, from essay writing to financial aid. Miguel, is a sophomore at Woodberry Forest, a boarding school in Virginia, and he is on the wrestling and football teams. Kamauri is a senior at Hillside High School and he recently enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. They are just two examples of Durham Nativity alumni who have found their own path and are thriving in high school
Everything that I’ve accomplished today, I credit a lot of that to Durham
-Kamauri
High School Scholarships 2020-2024
$2,972,209 $2,102,397 (local) $869,812 (boarding)
Private High Schools
Blair Academy (post grad)
Cardinal Gibbons School
Carolina Friends School
Cary Academy
Cristo Rey of RTP
Durham Academy
Ravenscroft School
Trinity School
Colleges
Woodberry Forest School 99% High School Graduation
Appalachian State University
Delaware State
Duke University
Durham Technical
Community College
East Carolina University
Emory University
Hyles Anderson College
Morehouse College
NC A&T State University
This year, Harrison Shannon, completed an impressive seventeen-year tenure as a dedicated Durham Nativity (DNS) board member His unwavering commitment and thoughtful leadership have been instrumental in the school's growth and evolution, leaving an indelible mark on the institution and the young men it serves.
Harrison's early days on the board coincided with the period when DNS was housed in a small church on Angier Avenue and faced significant financial challenges. “We were figuring out how to keep the doors open, ” Harrison says, remembering how making payroll was a constant worry. Yet, he remained committed, understanding that the school was in its infancy and would require patience and perseverance
In time, Harrison witnessed the school's rise from a start-up to a well-established institution with a strong foundation, evident in the success stories of its graduates. “Seeing those boys come back after they’ve graduated, giving back to the school it’s a full-circle moment,” he notes with pride. For him, this is what defines Durham Nativity’s legacy: “It’s not just about getting a diploma, it’s about fostering a lifelong sense of service.”
Throughout his years of service, Harrison became known for his solid, thoughtful approach. He helped steer key decisions, always grounding discussions in what was best for the students. His influence was significant often bringing clarity and wisdom to boardroom discussions
As he steps down, Harrison reflects on the school’s future with optimism “The groundwork has been laid,” he says. “Now, it's about expanding that vision and finding new ways to lift up even more young men in Durham. I have every confidence in where the school is headed.”
In closing, Harrison offered a favorite quotation: "If you dwell on the past, you lose an eye. But if you forget the past, you lose both." For him, this balance between reflection and forward momentum is key to the school’s continued success He hopes the school will keep moving strategically and thoughtfully, always growing, and never standing still
Harrison's early days on the board coincided with a difficult period for DNS, when it was housed in a small church on Angier Avenue and faced significant financial challenges “We were figuring out how to keep the doors open, ” Harrison says, remembering how making payroll was a constant worry. Yet, he remained committed, understanding that the school was in its infancy and would require patience and perseverance.
Harrison’s departure marks the end of an era at DNS, but his legacy will endure. His leadership has shaped the school’s policies and, more importantly, the lives of countless students. As he steps down, he leaves an indelible mark on DNS, a testament to his unwavering dedication to its mission and the transformative power of education
In time, Harrison witnessed the school's rise from those tough beginnings to a well-established institution with a strong foundation, evident in the success stories of its graduates. “Seeing those boys come back after they’ve graduated, giving back to the school it’s a full-circle moment,” he notes with pride For him, this is what defines DNS’s legacy: “It’s not just about getting a diploma, it’s about fostering a lifelong sense of service.”
Thoughtful Leadership and Enduring Legacy
Durham Nativity School could not exist without the generosity of those who believe in our mission. Help sustain our efforts by contributing in the following ways:
Donate online at www.durhamnativity.org/giving
Mail a check to: Development Office, P.O. Box 3537, Durham, NC 27702
Rayze App; visit www.durhamnativity.org/giving on how to donate through Rayze App
Volunteer: email qhunter@durhamnativity.org to learn more and get started.
For additional ways to give, contact Kevin Mahoney 919-597-7794; email kmahoney@durhamnativity.org
Carry on the rich tradition of community service and engagement at Durham Nativity School while supporting our students’ educational journeys.
Community Breakfast (November 22 at 8 am): Learn more about Durham Nativity School. Join our student-led Morning Assembly, breakfast, and other activities.
Christmas Concert (December 12 at 6 pm): A festive holiday program followed by refreshments and commemoration of Dan Hill.
Women’s Luncheon (February 14th at 11 am): A perfect way to celebrate your Valentine’s Day. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/DNSluncheon2025
Founder’s Day Spring Event (April 2025)
Tel. 919-680-3790
www.durhamnativity.org “I
Mother Teresa
