Foxcroft Magazine (Fall/Winter 2025)

F OXC ROF T S CH OOL O L OO

FALL/ FA F A AL LL/WIN NTER TER TE R 20 2025 2 255

“All In” with th a Dream Come Truee A Conversation n with Dr. Lisa Kaenzig, Foxcroft's 11th Head of Schooll pg. 14

Forging Pathways to Success Journeys Through Academic Concentrationss pg. 24

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A New Member of the Pack Hounds erupt with joy and rush in for hugs after Dr. Lisa Kaenzig, our new Head of School, is chosen for the Hound Team. Setting up their own ‘friends til the end’ family rivalry, Dr. Kaenzig’s partner, Dr. Christine de Denus, was chosen a Fox. GO FOXES! GO HOUNDS!

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Foxcroft Magazine

FROM THE

Head of School It is late fall here in Middleburg, as I write my first letter for Foxcroft Magazine. Our campus is alive with colors and falling leaves, the feel of crisp autumn air, and the sounds of our girls laughing and learning at this extraordinary School. I feel such joy each day in serving as the 11th Head of Foxcroft School. Each morning, as I walk from Covert to Schoolhouse, I am enchanted by our garden of a campus. As I shared at my installation in September, we literally grow girls here at Foxcroft. We see the roots and seeds that they bring to us in early adolescence, and we foster them, carefully guiding their growth, celebrating their triumphs, and helping them learn during these critical teenage years. How lucky I feel to be a part of our community of “girl gardeners” here!

When Foxcroft’s Board of Trustees Chair Elizabeth Lester ’88 shared the charge of the Board with me at the installation ceremony, she noted that I must “devote yourself to Foxcroft School, an undertaking that endures today because of the support and care given back to the School by its community. I charge you to uphold the School’s mission and dream big dreams for the girls of Foxcroft and to always keep them at the heart of all you do.” I take that charge very seriously and feel so honored to be a member of the Foxcroft community.

Our founder, Miss Charlotte, had an extraordinary dream for a school that girls would want to come to and hate to leave." That is exactly how I feel about this special place. I have so enjoyed getting to know our girls in conversations in the hallways of Schoolhouse, in small gatherings with them in Brick House, and in class dinners at Covert.

They are all unique individuals with passions, interests, and dreams for their time at Foxcroft and for their futures.

The importance of Foxcroft’s traditions — the whimsy and lively spirit of Fox/ Hound, New Girl Runnings, and Sing Sings, among so many others — reminds us to stay true to all that has been important here for more than a century while we ensure that this special school remains a place of friendship, connection, and academic growth for every one of our students for generations to come.

I look forward to working closely with all of you in growing Foxcroft together in this next chapter.

I believe deeply in the transformative power of an all-girls' education. This belief has shaped my career, my values, and led me directly to Foxcroft.

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Fall / Winter 2025

in this issue

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Feature: “All In” with A Dream Come True: Dr. Lisa Kaenzig's Journey to Foxcroft

Notebook: Bringing a Vision to Life: The Mars STEAM Building Nears Completion

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Feature: Forging Pathways to Success

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Out and About

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Feature: Dr. Lisa Kaenzig Installed as 11th Head of School

Gone Away

Mission Statement

Dr. Lisa Kaenzig Head of School

Foxcroft’s mission is to help every girl explore her unique voice and to develop the skills, confidence, and courage to share it with the world.

Dr. Tanya Hyatt Assistant Head of School

Published twice a year by Foxcroft School Please address queries to: communications@foxcroft.org, or Foxcroft School, 22407 Foxhound Lane, Middleburg, VA 20117 This magazine is printed on FSC-certified 10% post-consumer waste recycled paper.

Bethany Stotler Director of Communications and Marketing Christine McCrehin Assistant Director of Publications and Storytelling

Trey Adams Director of Enrollment Management and Community Engagement Krystyna Martin Director of Admission, Access, and Inclusion Hayley Munroe Director of Institutional Advancement Ranata Davis Dean of Inclusive Excellence

Foxcroft School is accredited by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools.

Design by Think (think804.com)

Foxcroft School admits students of any race, color, religion, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the School. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions, or financial aid policies, loan programs, athletics, and other school-administered programs.

Additional Photos: Dr. Lindsay Anderson, Anneliese Cabral ’26, Grant Gibson, Abigail Hanson, Ginny Riley, Bethany Stotler, Bob Updegrove, Rachel Verhey ’26, Heather Whisenant, Michelle Woodruff, Shelby Youles ’26.

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Bringing a Vision to Life

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Foxcroft Magazine

Notebook 1

The Mars STEAM Building Nears Completion

By Heather Whisenant, Major Gifts Officer We are excited to be putting the final touches on the Mars STEAM Building, including landscaping, furniture deliveries, and final inspections. This marks a major milestone for our campus and the Building for Our Future campaign, which aims to create and renovate innovative spaces to support how girls learn best.

We’ve watched all of the elements come together, including but certainly not limited to 60,000 bricks, 3,500 cubic yards of excess dirt, 250 pieces of steel, 50 pieces of glulam, and 1,100 cubic yards of concrete to form the building.

Meanwhile, our students have participated in Project STEAMBuild seminars with our construction partner, Coakley & Williams Construction (CWC). A few of the girls toured the building as it neared completion and shared how STEAM intersects here at Foxcroft, and how they see the new building shaping their learning.

2 Project STEAMBuild Seminars “I find it amazing that tools like 3D modeling software and advanced engineering systems helped bring the building from an idea to reality.

It’s like the STEAM spirit was built into its walls from the very beginning.” - Raqeeqah Khan ’29 “I really liked it when we made the cement. It was a fun mix of science and engineering, and I liked experimenting with different materials and seeing how small changes could affect the strength and texture. It felt like a real hands-on challenge where we got to test and improve our own ideas.” - Cadey Peterson ’28

STEAM Intersections at Foxcroft “I currently take photography, and it is an excellent example of how science connects to the arts. For example, we used film cameras to capture photos, and through this, we learned about the chemical process film goes through in order to develop the photos. Film photography itself is an art, but it also requires some science that helps along the process.” - Nia Muhammad ’27 “I can’t wait to do more hands-on experiments in the new biology lab — it feels like the perfect space to explore living systems and real-world science.

Through classes and activities like Project STEAMBuild and robotics, I’ve realized how much I enjoy handson design and understanding how things work on both a scientific and creative level.” - Cadey Peterson ’28

Looking Ahead “Currently, my goal is to become a dermatologist, and I am taking advantage of the opportunities to explore STEAM aspects, such as a concentration or internships that can help me gain experience and knowledge.” - Nia Muhammad ’27 “As a freshman beginning my journey at Foxcroft, I’m stepping into a space filled with endless creativity, innovation, and possibility. For me, it’s not just about the projects themselves, it’s about the chance I get to discover what sparks my curiosity and challenges me to think differently.” - Raqeeqah Khan ’29 We look forward to sharing more updates from the first months in the new building! $ ELUGV H\H YLHZ RI KRZ WKH QHZ DGGLWLRQ ƓWV into campus.

2. Mars STEAM Building Project Manager Bridgett Redding of Coakley & Williams Construction (CWC) uses a building map to show the girls what room they are standing in.

Notebook

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Class Trips are a Fun and Meaningful Tradition!

Each year during our opening period of closed weeks, Foxcroft students spend a day of bonding, fun, and adventure with their classmates during class trips. These trips are intentionally planned to foster personal development, social skills, and independence, while creating bonds through these shared experiences — but most importantly, they're fun!

Whether a senior braving the ropes courses at Camp Highroad, a junior exploring the Smithsonian National Zoo, a sophomore learning to do benthic water sampling while exploring Goose Creek, or a freshman discovering hidden gems in Middleburg during a scavenger hunt, these trips are a treasured tradition that students eagerly anticipate each year.

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3. Members of the Sophomore Class work with a representative from the Goose Creek Foundation to gauge the health of the portion of Goose Creek that runs through campus.

4. We found it! Freshmen Lina Kazantzidis, Lauren Ertz, and Isabel Herstek had fun exploring Middleburg during the class scavenger hunt.

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Marine Biology Aquarium Makes Waves This hands-on project is helping students learn about the chemistry of the ocean and how fish interact with their environment and each other, while helping them build real-world skills in water quality testing and aquaculture. They’ve also done a great job staying within budget, including gathering second-hand aquarium supplies from the community to make their funds go farther. In small groups, students researched different ways to compose the tank, made a proposal, and presented it to the class, who then voted on their favorite — and are now making it come to life.

5. Seniors Priscilla Chu and Anais Piquion have some fun as they wait in line for the high ropes course at Camp Highroad.

These visitors brightened our fall schedule.

Read more on the Speaker Series & Seminars page of www.foxcroft.org.

Brenda StaufferHoffman and Ashley Hoffman

Katrina Balding Bills

Breanna Green

Local Author

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Team USA Field Hockey Olympians September 12

Audrey Bruce Currier Library Book Talk September 17

International Relations Class Speaker October 3

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(l to r) Maddie Bryson ’26, Aria Vega ’27, Christina Zhang ’26, Shelby Youles ’26, Lucia He ’27, and Anais Piquion ’26 pause for a pose while setting up the aquarium.

New to the Board of Trustees Foxcroft welcomes two experienced and enthusiastic volunteers to the Board of Trustees.

Adela Griswold '06

Lifelong Learners Foxcroft’s faculty used the summer months to deepen their knowledge and model what it is like to be a lifelong learner. From reading and scoring AP exams and completing online coursework to traveling abroad to Taiwan, Canada, and Anguilla to strengthen curriculum, programs, and partnerships, the professional development activities were vast and varied.

Highlights include: • Head of School Dr. Lisa Kaenzig attended the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Institute for New Heads in Atlanta, GA. • School Nurse Sophia Griswold graduated in June with a Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, from Purdue Global Online.

• Members of the Admissions and Athletics Departments visited the Anguilla Tennis Academy (ATA) to expand Foxcroft’s partnership with the ATA to create pathways for learning, leadership, and service.

• Director of The Innovation Lab and History and Sciences Teacher Alex Northrup was an instructor on GIS tools at the Chesapeake Bay Climate Institute, which Director of STEAM Education and STEM Department Chair Dr. Lindsay Anderson also attended. Northrup also presented at the National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE) Conference and at the Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS).

• Members of the Admission Office attended the Association of Independent School Admission Professionals (AISAP) Institute, The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) Summer Institute for Admissions, and the NAIS Institute on Intercultural Dialogue.

• Members of the Communications and Marketing Department attended Finalsite University, where Director Bethany Stotler co-presented two sessions. In the fall, Stotler also spoke on a Headways series panel hosted by the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS) and Finalsite.

• Director of Institutional Advancement Hayley Munroe co-presented with Peter Winebrenner of Hord Coplan Macht about the Mars STEAM Building and Project STEAM Build Seminars at The Association of Boarding Schools Schools (TABS) Annual Conference.

Griswold is a Certified Nurse-Midwife at the Alexandria Health Department, where she specializes in reproductive health and infectious diseases via direct patient care and population-level health promotion. She has served on the Virginia Department of Health Medical Advisory Committee and the Virginia Congenital Syphilis and Perinatal HIV Review Board. She worked previously at Planned Parenthood of Maryland and has served Foxcroft as a member of the Alumnae Council, the Campaign Advisory Committee, and as a class representative. She lives in Arlington, VA with her husband Zak and their dog.

Jeanette Davidson-Flowers '88

Davidson-Flowers is currently the Finance and Budgeting Manager at George School, a co-ed, college preparatory boarding school in Newtown, PA. Prior to this, among other professional responsibilities, she worked at Public Financial Management in municipal finance and performed federal government consulting work at Booz Allen Hamilton. She is married with three boys and resides in Delaware.

Notebook

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SPORTS Foxcroft’s fall varsity sports teams had 12 players receive All-Greater Piedmont Athletic Conference (GPAC) recognition. Highlights include:

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TENNIS Capping another spectacular season with their fourth consecutive GPAC Championship and a #3 Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association (VISAA) State Division II finish, Varsity Tennis saw six players, including 2-time Player of the Year OLIVIA RICKARD ’28, receive All-GPAC accolades. First Team recognition went to KATE GALAZOMMATIS ’26, CATE HEIJMEN ’28, MIMI KEARNEY ’27, MINA OZGEN ’27, and ELIZABETH WALKER ’28. Olivia and Mina also received VISAA All-State First and Second Team recognition, respectively.

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FIELD HOCKEY Varsity Field Hockey played a hard-fought season that produced four All-GPAC First Team athletes: ARIANA ARANA ’26, HELENKA CHODAKIEWICZ ’26, KATT GARRETT ’27, and CECE YOUNG ’27.

Helenka also received VISAA All-State First Team honors.

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6. Two-time VISAA Division II First Team, and two-time All-GPAC Player of the Year Olivia Rickard ’28.

VOLLEYBALL

7. VISAA Division II First Team Field Hockey player Helenka Chodakiewicz ’26.

Varsity Volleyball finished a competitive season with two players recognized as AllGPAC athletes, including First Team honors for KATHARINA ELTZSCHIG ’27 and Second Team honors for KAYLEN REDDELL ’26.

8. VISAA Division II Second Team Tennis player Mina Ozgen ’27.

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9. Kayla Harley ’29 has shaved more than three minutes off her time throughout the season to earn her spot at the VISAA State Championship meet.

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10. Varsity Tennis players pose with their fourth consecutive GPAC Champions plaque!

CROSS COUNTRY Varsity Cross Country members KAYLA HARLEY ’29 and CHLOE WELSH ’29 both qualified for and ran in the GPAC Championship meet. The two girls also ran in the VISAA Championship meet along with teammates ASHLEY KROEGER ’26, LUCIA FRIAR-STEVENS ’29, and ANNA MCLEAN ’29.

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11. All-GPAC Varsity Volleyball players Katharina Eltzschig ’27 (far right) and Kaylen Reddell ’26 (long sleeves) are all focus and determination on the court.

12. Varsity Field Hockey All-GPAC players CeCe Young ’27 (left) and Ariana Arana ’26 ULJKW ZRUN WRJHWKHU WR SXVK WKH EDOO XSƓHOG

37 Students Receive AP Honors Seven Foxcroft students achieved the premier status of AP Scholar with Distinction, eight students achieved the status of AP Scholar with Honor, and a phenomenal 22 students earned AP Scholar Awards from the College Board for outstanding achievement on Advanced Placement exams taken last spring.

This marks the 22nd consecutive year that Foxcroft has reached double-digits for our number of AP Scholars.

Fall Show Season Foxcroft had two riders compete at the Middleburg Classic from September 17-21, and then ten horse and rider combinations competed at the Piedmont Jumper Classic from September 24-28, where all of the Foxcroft riders had great success in both the hunter and jumper rings!

SAMMIE MASOUDI ’27 finished out the week with two wins and the Division Championship in the 2’9” Intermediate Equitation division. Senior ANNELIESE CABRAL demonstrated decisive and calm but confident piloting skills on Foxcroft’s “Legend” and was rewarded with the Reserve Championship in the Low Children’s Hunters. Slick riding over twisty equitation courses earned FIONA JOYCE ’27 and ELEANOR COOLIDGE ’29 the Champion and Reserve Champion rosettes, respectively, in the Green Rider Equitation Division.

13. Loyal fans, including Diane Eversole (Addy ’29), Head of School Dr. Lisa Kaenzig, and Patti Mora ’95 (Olivia ’27), pack the stands GXULQJ WKH ƓUVW ,Q +RXVH Horse Show of the season.

14. Sammie Masoudi ’27 shows the beautiful form that brought her two wins and the Division Championship in the 2’9” Intermediate Equitation division at the Piedmont Jumper Classic.

In-House Horse Show Series Students rode smooth rounds, and spectators provided enthusiastic support as Foxcroft hosted the first show of the In-House Horse Show Series in October. Eleven students participated in four divisions, which included hunters and jumpers at varying jump heights ranging from ground poles to 2’6”. The Foxcroft instructors were proud of all the riders’ efforts, both in and out of the saddle. Thoughtful riding, great sportsmanship, and of course, awesome horsemanship, made this In-House Horse Show a blast for all involved! The series will host two more shows in the spring. Watch the Foxcroft calendar for dates!

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Notebook

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“All In” With A Dream Come True

A Conversation with Head of School Dr. Lisa Kaenzig about her Journey to Foxcroft

By Director of Communications and Marketing Bethany Stotler

In the Head of School's office in Schoolhouse, where countless volumes of Tally-ho yearbooks sit on bookshelves and store decades of history, Dr. Lisa Kaenzig adds a new chapter as she sits behind the desk that once belonged to founder Charlotte Haxall Noland herself. Dr. Kaenzig assumed the role of Foxcroft’s 11th Head of School on July 1, 2025, and four months in at the time of this interview, has already experienced much of Foxcroft’s rich culture and traditions for herself. “It's fabulous,” she reflected. “It's like being shot out of a cannon with confetti. I have loved it.”

the fall musical revue, monthly networking events in Middleburg, many Sing Sings, and a few gatherings in the mid-Atlantic region.

When Dr. Kaenzig sat down with me, we had just hosted Family Weekend on campus. “I really enjoyed Family Weekend,” she shared. “I felt like I could see our mission in action with those families. I kept hearing from them about the ways this place has been transformative for their daughters, whether it's girls who've been here a couple of months as New Girls, and certainly from senior parents.” In the months prior, Dr. Kaenzig has also experienced her first opening of the school year, Fox/Hound Choosings, her installation ceremony, two Board of Trustees meetings, an in-house horse show, countless athletic competitions,

When I asked what she’s loved the most since becoming Foxcroft’s Head, her answer was clear: “It is the girls,” she stated simply. “They’re what make me happiest. I have loved getting to know them individually. I've loved hosting the class dinners at Covert. I've loved walking around in the Dining Hall at dinners and just chatting with them.

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“I was able to travel to Richmond and Charlottesville to meet with several alumnae and parents of Foxcroft graduates. I really enjoyed hearing about their hopes and dreams for the School, and all the things they want to make certain stay the same.” All this at just 119 days in — and that’s not to mention the School’s day-to-day happenings she has overseen.

“But most of all,” she continued, “I just love their energy, and I love how much they love the School. They're really the reason I came here.”

Coming to Foxcroft from Hobart and William Smith Colleges has been both “exciting” and a “big change,” said

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Dr. Kaenzig, who had a long career at HWS. She was at Hobart and William Smith for 22 years, including several years as the Dean of William Smith College and her first 14 years there as the dean of first-year women. She noted that she “never stopped loving it.” When the opportunity came up at Foxcroft, however, Dr. Kaenzig knew she had to pursue it. “I had this dream for a long time, at least 10 years, of wanting to be a head of school at a school for girls. I felt really called to do this work, and every day I feel validated in that decision.”

In the fall of 2024, following the interview process, one phone call solidified Dr. Kaenzig’s future at Foxcroft.

“I can remember it so clearly,” she recalls. “I was standing in my office (in Geneva, NY)… and my phone popped up with a number I didn't recognize, so I thought, ‘Well, I better answer that.’

It was Natalie Wiltshire ’95, the Chair of Foxcroft's Board at that time. She offered me the job, and I could not speak. It was like a dream come true for me in that moment.”

Dr. Kaenzig took notes during their conversation. “In looking back at those notes now, I remind myself every day that those are the reasons the board chose me.” Her connection to the Board has remained strong through the transition. “They've been really lovely.

[Current Board Chair] Elizabeth [Lester ‘88] wrote me yesterday morning, 'Hope Family Weekend went well and you're able to get some quiet time and rest.’

And I said, ‘Well, I'll get a little bit of rest today, but we've got [Halloween] Sing Sing tonight and the walk out to the cemetery!’” A Head of School’s work is truly never done.

In navigating her new role, Dr. Kaenzig has an extended support network in family, friends, and the independent school network, including connections she made within her National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) new Heads cohort. She’s taking

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Dr. Kaenzig At a Glance

PLACES LIVED

FOX OR HOUND?

• Portsmouth, VA (I was born in the Portsmouth Naval Hospital when my Dad was serving in the U.S. Navy).

Hound

• Greenville and Columbia (with frequent visits to Hilton Head and Kiawah Islands), South Carolina

FAVORITE SPOTS ON CAMPUS?

• Washington, DC

Miss Charlotte’s Garden (pure magic) and the patio outside Covert

• Geneva, NY

EDUCATION

FAVORITE BOOK?

• Ph.D. in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership, William & Mary

Standing in the Rainbow

by Fannie Flagg

• M.A. in Human Resource Development, The George Washington University • B.A. in Political Science, Rutgers University

FUN FACT I was a competitive swimmer when I was growing up in South Carolina, and I still love to swim.

It brings me so much peace.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION Citation for Exemplary Commitment and Service to Hobart and William Smith (HWS), Alumni and Alumnae Associations, June 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award, PLEN, March 2022 Honorary Member of the 2010 Graduating Class of William Smith College, May 2010

WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU THE MOST ABOUT FOXCROFT? The pace! We do much here at Foxcroft — it is really amazing! I have a lot of energy myself, along with the “girl energy” we have on tap here on campus, and I definitely get to use it all at Foxcroft!

“It is the girls,” she stated simply. “They’re what make me happiest ... I just love their energy, and I love how they love the School. They’re really the reason I came here.”

Right: Dr. Kaenzig (far-right) with her family, (left to right) partner Dr. Christine de Denus, and daughters Morgan and Madison.

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"The most important thing I can do is have the girls know I'm working for them… I want them to know that they will always be at the forefront for me, that I want to feel their excitement and the joy, and also the things that are hard for them."

advantage of professional development opportunities for new heads through the Virginia Association of Independent Schools (VAIS), International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS), and the Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington (AISGW).

She and her partner, Dr. Christine de Denus, are also reading through as much of Foxcroft’s history as possible — “[Christine’s] been in the library archives and just enjoying discovering the place.

She's read more about the history of Foxcroft than I even have at this point.”

The institutional knowledge and history of school culture and traditions run deep, especially at a school founded over 100 years ago, so Dr. Kaenzig leans on her support network here on campus, too.

“We've got really experienced people here, some who have been at Foxcroft a long time, and others that have been in a lot of different independent schools and different career arenas, all of whom I feel are giving me really good advice.”

From Maintenance to the barn to just down the hall, Foxcroft’s employees offer guidance and support. Dr. Kaenzig shares fondly how Registrar and Houndbacker Patty Boswell gives her an “almost daily pep talk, which she does really well! I can see why the students love her in Applegate.”

In talking to Dr. Kaenzig, it becomes clear that it’s not just Foxcroft’s Board and

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employees that want her to be successful: the girls do, too. “We had the Sophomore Class to the house, and at the end, Cate Heijmen, the current president of the class, said, ‘We hope you take care of yourself and pace yourself. We really like you, and we want you to do well here.

We got the whole healthy mind and a healthy body thing, and we want you to embody that.’ That was really powerful.”

again, I watched her being one of the only women, and so I really wanted to go to a women's college when I had a chance to choose colleges.”

First attending the women’s college of Rutgers University for undergrad, Dr. Kaenzig would demonstrate her own perseverance in the pursuit of knowledge over the course of her academic career.

These thoughtful, confident, and empowered girls are what drew Dr. Kaenzig to Foxcroft and continue to serve as a grounding point for her every day. “The most important thing I can do is have them know I'm working for them… I want them to know that they will always be at the forefront for me, that I want to feel their excitement and the joy, and also the things that are hard for them.”

As our conversation turned to Foxcroft’s programs, Dr. Kaenzig noted an interdisciplinary theme that has already made an impression on her: opportunities for risk-taking. “That's something I think we do well here at Foxcroft: we help create appropriate, safe ways for [students] to take risks academically.”

Becoming an advocate for all-girls’ education is something Dr. Kaenzig traces back to her elementary school years at an independent school in Greenville, SC. It was at that time that she saw her own mother return to college. “I watched her as a mother of young children going back to get her undergraduate degree. That had a powerful impact on me, particularly because it was in an area that, at that time, was largely dominated by men.”

Dr. Kaenzig took notice of her mother’s courage and determination. “Then she decided to go back for a Ph.D. Once

Coming from a career in higher education gives Dr. Kaenzig a unique perspective on Foxcroft’s academic program and on defining college readiness. Her work with Director of College Counseling Laura Moan has already been strategic. “Laura and a couple of us are going to be doing intentional conversations with our girls who graduated in 2025 and are now in college about what they were well prepared for by Foxcroft — academically, socially, leadership, otherwise — and what about this unique experience really prepared them well for college.”

Dr. Kaenzig also shared that she is getting to know more about the School’s

signature programs. STEAM is an area where she has foundational knowledge that will serve the School well in the years ahead. “I did my doctoral dissertation at William & Mary on eminent women in academic science. So, I really understand the importance of mentoring for young women in science, the ability for them to challenge themselves and always have higher levels of rigor that they're able to engage with… but most importantly, that they have space, whether it's space in labs, space to share their own voices, space to try out ideas… I'm excited that the Mars STEAM Building will provide that for Foxcroft girls now and for many generations to come.”

The opportunity to develop confidence and try new things in a supportive environment is a theme that carries over into the riding ring, another signature program of the School. “Again, it's this idea of courage and confidence, right?

That's the core of riding, and your relationship with the horse, your trust in yourself, and your trust in the horse.

It's a great metaphor for what the best educational experiences should provide, which is safe spaces to learn and to take risks and to grow.”

Another longstanding and essential part of the Foxcroft experience — traditions — came up several times in the course of our conversation. Miss Charlotte made sure to remind us all to have “much fun” as we “keep up with the times,” sage advice for which Dr. Kaenzig already has

an appreciation. “I think that's the most important part of the Miss Charlotte quote. Let's make sure school is fun. I really enjoy watching the joy and the play and the sense of community that's built around the traditions. They all have their own vibe to them, but the thing that is uniform [is] how much fun the girls have, that they still get to be kids. There's a spirit of playfulness and whimsy here.”

are finding their voice and their purpose, and then graduate as young women, ready for college and ready for the rest of their lives.” In reflecting on her own career, Dr. Kaenzig made a perhaps unexpected admission. “I had joy every day in working at Hobart and William Smith, and it was hard to imagine that I could love something even more, but… I do. I really love this more.”

In today’s world, this carefree spirit is harder to find, Dr. Kaenzig recognizes.

“You watch them as teenage girls, with all kinds of different pressures on them, getting to just have fun and play, enjoy their moment, screaming out there, singing loudly, and just having fun with it.”

This new chapter for Dr. Kaenzig and her family at Foxcroft is just getting started.

She and Dr. de Denus have raised two daughters, Morgan and Madison, who are now young adults living in Manhattan and Charlotte. “They really love visiting here on campus and in Middleburg. They can see my happiness and delight in this special School and these wonderful girls.” The months ahead hold many events she looks forward to, from Fox/ Hound competitions to the Christmas Pageant and Christmas in Middleburg, not to mention the opening of the Mars STEAM Building, the STEAM Challenge, and more travel to meet alumnae in the spring. No matter what arises in her day, Dr. Kaenzig knows she has found a new home here at Foxcroft.

Making space for these moments is an integral part of Foxcroft’s educational model, as a school for girls. When we say “everything we do is curriculum,” we mean it — and the right leader to carry on that pedagogy has been found in Dr. Kaenzig. “[Foxcroft] is a place that is designed for girls. We really are fulfilling our mission, and I am so fundamentally mission aligned — my entire career, everything I believe in, my values, my own passions — everything is so fully aligned that I have been completely able to just be all in on the fun and the whimsy and the excitement of everything here.”

What does Dr. Kaenzig see in the months and years ahead for Foxcroft’s students and for herself? “The goal is that they come in as ninth or tenth graders, as they

“I'm all in; I have been all along. From the moment I took that call on October 3rd of 2024 from Natalie Wiltshire, I have been all in.” We are so glad you are, Dr. Kaenzig, and can’t wait to see where you lead Foxcroft in the years to come.

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Dr. Lisa Kaenzig Installed as Foxcroft’s 11th Head of School

1 Board of Trustees Chair Elizabeth Lester ’88 officially installed Dr. Lisa Kaenzig as Foxcroft’s 11th Head of School during a ceremony held in Miss Charlotte’s Garden on a beautiful, sunny evening that seemed to foretell the brightness of the School’s future as it marks its 112th academic year.

In addition to the Foxcroft community, family, colleagues, and friends, the September 19 event was attended by several fellow heads of school, Virginia Association of Independent School (VAIS) Executive Director Betsy Johnson, and Foxcroft’s 9th Head of School Mary Louise Leipheimer. Foxcroft’s 10th Head of School, Cathy McGehee, was out of the country, but had expressed her support to Dr. Kaenzig earlier in a written letter.

Parents' Association President Phebe Mason Wahl ’96 and Alumnae Association Past President Tarin Heilman Horan ’93 highlighted Foxcroft's legacy and the transformative impact of its traditions.

“Long after graduation, my Foxcroft sisters and I remain deeply woven into each other's lives," shared Wahl, "showing up with full hearts through every birth, loss, triumph, and setback. This bond extends to every alumna because Miss Charlotte entrusted the School to us when she died, and it is our responsibility to keep her spirit alive in every Foxcroft girl. To be a Foxcroft girl is to carry a kind heart, a fearless voice, and unshakable joy. It is this spark I see radiating now in my own daughter, Ellie, as she shines in her junior year, along with her fellow Foxcroft sisters, and I also see it shining in our new leader, Dr. Lisa Kaenzig.”

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Horan echoed those sentiments. “The Alumnae Association represents an extraordinary community of over 3,000 women, who share foundational values and experiences cultivated during their time here at Foxcroft…

We are invested in preserving the traditions Miss Charlotte started decades ago while we eagerly await what lies ahead for the School’s

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7 next hundred years. … And because Miss Charlotte always said it best: ‘You cannot go back. You must go forward. You must help the future, and you must take the fine, splendid things of your past for your standards.’ Dr. Kaenzig, we believe you will do just that.”

reminded us that we must be brave and dare to dream big dreams, and so we are, and so we do here at Foxcroft. … Thank you for welcoming me and for trusting me. I am so excited to see what we can grow together in this next chapter for Foxcroft.”

“Standing here fills me with joy and gratitude,” shared Dr. Kaenzig, who then recalled the impact of meeting with students during her interview process. “In that lunch with Foxcroft girls, I felt a clear sense of being in exactly the right place, and later that same day, in a quiet moment with my partner, Christine, right here in Miss Charlotte's Garden, I fully understood what our founder, Charlotte Haxall Noland, envisioned when she spoke of a school that girls would want to come to and hate to leave. That is exactly how I feel today.”

Lester then installed Dr. Kaenzig with the following directive: “I charge you to lead with worthwhile action and feeling, to think great thoughts and share your affection for this place and these people. I charge you to devote yourself to Foxcroft School, a school that is still enduring today because of the support and care given back by its community. I charge you to uphold the school's mission and to dream big dreams for the girls of Foxcroft and the School, and to always keep the girls at the heart of everything you do. It gives me great pleasure to present you with a Foxcroft ring, which serves as a symbol of our School and a reminder of this worthy charge.”

Speaking directly to Foxcroft students, Dr. Kaenzig pledged: “My own promise to you is that I will work every day to lead this community where you can take risks, grow strong, and continue to discover the full breadth of your unique voices.”

After speaking about her career and lifelong dedication to girls’ education, Dr. Kaenzig concluded her remarks with a final reflection: “Miss Charlotte

Additional speakers included Student Head of School Kyla Peterson ’26, Student Vice Head of School Ariana Arana ’26, and Reverend Jason Eslicker, the Associate Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church, who offered an invocation.

1. Dr. Kaenzig thanks all who attended the installation ceremony.

2. Board of Trustees Chair Elizabeth Lester ‘88 charged Dr. Kaenzig to “uphold the school's mission and to dream big dreams for the girls of Foxcroft and the School, and to always keep the girls at the heart of everything you do.”

3. Dr. Kaenzig with Foxcroft’s 9th Head of School Mary Louise Leipheimer.

4. Dr. Kaenzig met and visited with several alumnae, including Barkley Boutell Henning ’73, at the reception following her installation.

5. Dr. Kaenzig (center) with school leaders from VAIS and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS): Edwin Gordon (Head of Congressional School and a member of the VAIS Board of Directors), Trip Darrin (Head of Blue Ridge School, Vice Chair, VAIS Board of Directors, and Foxcroft trustee), Betsy Johnson (Executive Director, VAIS), Treavor Lord (Head of The Hill School), Karen Lassey (Head of Emma Willard), and Steve Springer (Head of St. John's Parish Day School) 6. Dr. Kaenzig with current and former Board Chairs Elizabeth Lester ‘88 (left) and Natalie James Wiltshire ‘95 (right), who served as the co-heads of her Search Committee.

7. Dr. Kaenzig’s partner, Dr. Christine de Denus, and their daughters watch with pride and affection as she is installed as Foxcroft’s 11th Head of School.

To view videos of the speakers' full remarks, please scan this QR code.

HOS Installation

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“And here’s to being friends, ’til life is through and ends.

And here’s to Foxcroft in the front, girls.”

Foxcroft friendships have been forming since 1914. They are made on sleeping porches, in the classroom, on Big Track, in the Reynolds common room, and everywhere in between. With your support, we are able to fulfill our promise to every Foxcroft student of a residential community of understanding hearts and a lifetime of friendships and global connections. The Foxcroft Circle helps support every aspect of the Foxcroft experience for the girls on our campus right now!

We invite you to honor your Foxcroft friendships with a gift to The Foxcroft Circle and directly support today’s Foxcroft girls.

Make your gift today!

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Why I Give Meet Eleanor Kaye Durham ’81, mom to Mary Park Durham ’17, and native Texan. Kaye is a current Foxcroft Board of Trustees member, the Chair of the Advancement Committee, and co-chair of the Building for Our Future campaign. Hayley Munroe, Director of Institutional Advancement, recently sat down with her to ask several questions about why supporting Foxcroft philanthropically is important to her.

Q: What does Foxcroft mean to you?

A: Foxcroft was four of the best years of my life. I cherish the friendships I made, the time I spent at the barn with the horses, the uncommonly beautiful campus, and the education I received.

Foxcroft has had a lasting impact on my life, and I keep up with many of my Foxcroft friends nearly 50 years later.

I feel blessed and fortunate to be part of a community that fosters lifelong friendships — it’s one of the greatest gifts Foxcroft gives us.

generously supporting education, their church, and their community. My father often reminded us, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” I am passionate about giving back to the School that gave me so much. It is important for me to lead by example, showing younger generations that when individuals spanning multiple generations partner together to support an important cause, such as Foxcroft, there are endless opportunities for growth and positive impact.

Q: Fox or Hound?

A: I am a proud Hound! Loyal to the Royal.

Q: What do you hope your giving will mean for future generations?

A: By supporting The Foxcroft Circle and the Building for Our Future campaign, I hope to ensure that future generations of students experience the same incredible opportunities that both my daughter and I enjoyed. As Miss Charlotte said, “Don’t be narrow. Keep up with the times.” My giving is a way to honor that spirit — helping Foxcroft continue to grow, evolve, and inspire young women for generations to come.

Q: Finish this sentence: Giving to Foxcroft makes me feel…

A: Proud and hopeful for the future.

I believe in the power of an all-girls education, especially during the high school years, where confidence and selfdiscovery matter most. Foxcroft provides a nurturing and relaxed environment where girls can grow, learn, and take chances, while finding their unique voices. My father said, “The greatest gift you can give your children is the gift of a good education,” and supporting Foxcroft allows me to help pass that gift on.

Q: What motivates you to be so generous with your time, talent, and treasure?

A: I was raised to believe in the importance of giving back. My parents were both incredibly philanthropic,

Q: If you could share one message with future donors, what would it be?

A: Giving is essential to keep Foxcroft strong, vibrant, and moving forward.

Our support helps ensure the School continues to offer exceptional facilities such as the Mars STEAM Building and innovative teaching methods focusing on how girls learn best. Every gift matters — no amount is too small or too large, as every gift makes a difference!

Participation by all constituency groups, including the Board of Trustees, current parents, alumnae, and parents of alumnae, is vital to ensure Foxcroft has the tools necessary to support educating bright, young women.

Q: Why did you choose to support the Building for Our Future Campaign and the Mars STEAM Building specifically?

A: I am an advocate for technical, business or a STEAM education. Two of my children have engineering degrees and postgraduate degrees, and my youngest, who went to Foxcroft, Mary Park Durham ’17, was a business and finance major and currently works for JP Morgan in Manhattan, NY. Why I Give 23

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Forging Pathways to Success An Individualized Journey Through Academic Concentrations

By Julie Fisher, Director of STEAM Education and Academic Concentration Coordinator An important shift in a student's high school career occurs when they begin to make choices in what they want to explore and start to reflect on what issues matter to them most. This is when learning truly accelerates and becomes a lifelong journey. Every lesson that shines light on their personal interests and taps into their values brings their future into clearer view.

The Academic Concentration program was conceived to amplify the kind of growth students undergo when they have agency in what they learn and how they apply it. In other words, instead of just waiting for the train, they learn to build their own railway.

Laying the Tracks The key formula for a student’s success in this program is intrinsic motivation combined with an external support system. Mentors from nearly every

department of the school come to the aid of these students throughout their multi-year commitment in this program.

Starting sophomore year, students devise plans for in-depth explorations in Fine Arts, Humanities, STEM, or Integrated Studies. They map out ways to take advantage of our unique offerings relevant to their academic interests, such as core classes, electives, Wintermission courses, workshops, internships, clubs, and community service. While these opportunities are available to everyone, program participants earn credit toward their concentration for their involvement.

Their mentors will also connect them to outside organizations so they can gain real-world experiences that will ultimately shape the work they produce.

Staying the Course Students in their junior year continue to make connections across their learning

experiences on and off campus, then begin to formalize their concentration into a final project that has both personal and community impact. Everyone’s journey is unique, and no concentration project is alike, so when these students look back on the work they have done, they can take pride in the fact that they not only made it their own but they made a difference.

This is the type of independent drive, change-maker attitude, and selfdiscovery we foster in all of our students.

Fine Arts Mentor Ginny Riley explains, “This program is such a good example of what we do at Foxcroft. We give the girls tools to become the best they can be in a supportive environment. We're allowing them to stretch themselves here in high school with something they're passionate about, which turns into a confidence they can take into the world after Foxcroft.”

With topics ranging from monitoring stream runoff to determine the health of Goose Creek, which runs through campus, to researching the connection between music and memories, and from computer science/coding to the impacts of trap-neuter-release on feral cats, Academic Concentration students can choose a topic they are curious or passionate about, ask a question, and reach an answer.

Forging Pathways to Success 25

Program Stats Over the last eight years,

32 students

have graduated with a concentration designation:

12

5

STEM

Fine Arts

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10

Animal Science

Global Studies

18 students Current Enrollment (with 13 new applicants!)

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Embracing Realignments

Arriving at a Critical Junction

No matter the content area, students gain fundamental and lifelong skills that will set them up for a successful future. They learn how to seek help, accept feedback, and learn from their mistakes. What they ultimately gain is an increased sense of confidence, resilience, compassion, and intellect. They learn how to navigate the inevitable changes in the direction they take their work.

They work continuously to solve complex problems and find creative and practical solutions.

At the end of their senior year, concentration students participate in a finale where they present their journey in the program to the entire community in the Audrey Bruce Currier Library just ahead of graduation. STEM Mentor Dr. Lindsay Anderson explains, “The most rewarding part of being an academic concentration mentor is seeing the joy it brings students to see their passion projects come to life, and the pride they have in their projects at their final presentations.”

Lead Mentor in STEM Dr. Meghen Tuttle adds, “This program is an incredible skills and confidencebuilding opportunity. As it lasts for more than a year, students really get to experience the resilience that comes from struggling through multiple iterations of a project.

This is hard, rewarding work for both the student and the mentor. It can absolutely 'make' a student's experience at Foxcroft, and it can have an impact on their future career path(s). It is such a joy to see them take their ‘victory lap’ when they present these huge projects to the community.”

That shared pride is echoed at graduation when the special designation for their concentration is announced as students accept their diploma in Miss Charlotte’s Garden. While one important part of their journey will end, these graduates will have exactly what they need to forge their next pathway to a successful future.

Academic Concentration students have also designed and built a playhouse, and mapped with ArcGIS and Strava then blazed the major hiking trails on campus.

How It Works

Betsy Altenburger ’21

Eligible Students • Have a proven record of motivation and achievement, including at least a “B” average, demonstrating competency in their concentration area.

• Be self-directed and have excellent communication and time management skills.

University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science B.S. in Computer Science, Minor in Data Science and Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies Currently works for Capital One in their Technology Development Program STEM Concentration — Computer Science

• Set aside time each week to complete the requirements.

• Earn credits above and beyond the requirements for graduation, including an AP or Advanced level course.

• Extra-curricular credits earned through relevant: › On-campus and/or off-campus internships. › Workshops, field trips, guest speakers, service projects, clubs, Wintermission, & event planning.

• Maintain a Digital Portfolio for all research, reflections, and documentation for credits.

• Meet monthly with mentor and kick off each quarter with everyone enrolled in the program.

• Complete an independent project and present to the community ahead of graduation.

Application Process Apply to enter the three-year program during your sophomore year.

• Step 1: Meet with the Concentration Lead Mentor to discuss your goals and interest in the concentration program.

• Step 2: Write an Application Statement to document your skills, experience, interests, and goals.

• Step 3: Collect required signatures on your completed application from relevant individuals, including your concentration lead mentor and individual mentor; your advisor; the Academic, Student Life, and College Counseling offices; and your parents.

What I learned about myself: I get excited about projects, and I overpromise, and that leads to underdelivery. It's something I'm working on in the corporate world — being realistic. I like overachieving, so I'm still working on it.

Biggest Challenge: The self-discipline to work on your own. One thing that worked well with my concentration was more check-ins with my advisors; once we did that, I was making more progress, so I tried to do weekly check-ins with my research at UVA. Importance of Mentors/Advisor: I remember we were brainstorming my project, and I said I wanted to do something that's pure coding, that has a research aspect. That's when my advisor told me about the field of data science. It kind of has both, and I minored in that at UVA. I learned about a career path that I didn't know of, which is amazing. So that was really good mentoring.

Final Thoughts: I would recommend that you have to be quite passionate [to do a concentration]. It's a lot of work, time, and effort to be spending on something that you're not interested in. Something I want to highlight is that, for my first internship, my only resume things were a lot of concentration-related projects, and the recruiter for that job was very impressed that I had that. Once you get one internship, the ball just rolls, so it made that process a lot easier to get started.

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It is kind of crazy to be thinking about this now, but the fact that I did that concentration really set me up for internships, and that snowballed into bigger and better opportunities every summer, and that led to a full-time role. There are many paths to get there, but it's amazing that one decision and a big project in high school could lead to the start of your career. It was a really amazing opportunity to have, and I’m very grateful for that.

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Requirements

Forging Pathways to Success 27

Bianca McNeely ’21 Pomona College, B.S. in Politics Currently a Fulbright Scholar, teaching in the Czech Republic Global Studies/Humanities Concentration — Language oppression in Hawaii and Ireland, and efforts to reinvigorate the language.

What I learned about myself: I learned that time management skills are not inherent. It was helpful to sit down and plan. Even in college, when I wouldn't outline a paper, I did worse. I learned that about myself. I think my main takeaway was being able to justify and explain why something I'm researching matters and why other people should care about it.

The difficult part was self-pacing; doing the work over a three-year period, in a way where I wasn’t doing it at the last minute, and didn't have time to run the ideas past my advisor. It taught me that you don't go into a meeting with someone who's there to assist you and not have anything to show.

Importance of Mentors/Advisor: It was helpful to have someone check in every once in a while — to have a point person who's agreed to answer all your questions.

Final Thoughts: My concentration didn't exactly influence my major, but I think it influenced me to want to take classes about the world outside of what I can see and what I've experienced.

It instilled that you have to understand other cultures, other systems of government, and how other people do things.

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I think the beauty of an academic concentration is that it's optional.

It felt nice to know that I can ask a question, try to find the answer, and just learn more about it. I think sometimes the value of education is put on ‘Can I get a job from this?’, ‘Can I get money from this?’, and not ‘Can I learn something?'. If you have a question, this is the time to ask it; there are no stupid questions.

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Biggest Challenge: I think the biggest challenge was trying not to expand my scope. If you're too broad, someone could just Google that, right? Then what you're doing is not really an academic exercise. The thing that helped me overcome that was talking to my mentors.

Caroline Weck ’26 Integrated Studies Concentration — Fine Arts and STEM

What I learned about myself: I really like taking action. My goal in my career is to take action or do something that has an impact, and I think the concentration has given me the opportunity to explore how to do that. I feel like I've just learned what my values are and what I'm interested in.

Importance of Mentors/Advisor: Having a mentor was definitely important. I think knowing how much my mentors and people who were helping me with my concentration believed in me made me more inclined to complete the concentration.

Final Thoughts: I would recommend a concentration to people who are curious and want to learn more about something, and less to people who feel they need to do something extra for college, because then it's for reasons that make it very stressful. It's for you and your personal growth.

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Sophomore year in biology, we had to do a research project. I've always been interested in the ocean, and wanted to learn more about corals, so I wrote my research project on that, and I just got super interested in it. Junior year, I really wanted to take action to help the environment. I can't just think about it; I need to do something.

With the academic concentration, I'm kind of pushed to do it, but it's something I really like.

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Biggest Challenge: I wanted to make a documentary on coral reefs, and I just got really stuck. It felt like such a big thing, and I didn't know where to start. But I had mentors, like Ms. Riley. I was taking her video production class and had to make a final project, so I made the documentary. At the end, she said she encouraged me to do it for the class because she knew I could use it for my concentration.

Forging Pathways to Success 29

Lauren Graham ’26 Fine Arts Concentration — Technical Theater/Performance

What I learned about myself: I'm capable of more than I thought I was. Being invited to direct the shows as my concentration project was a big vote of confidence — the fact that my teachers and mentors trust me. So that's good. When people need things done in the theater or Battle of the Dorms wants lights on, they come to me, which is really nice.

Biggest Challenge: Finding the time to fulfill all the requirements of the program, and the motivation to write the reflections and go to the meetings, and all that stuff. Sometimes, if I have a ton of homework, I don't really want to write my quarterly reflection for my concentration, but this is something that actually means a lot to me, so I need to do it.

Importance of Mentors/Advisor: It's someone to hold you accountable, because I'm still 17 and in high school, and I've got eight million things going on in my life, so I'm busy. But Mrs. Thorndike is super supportive; someone to bounce ideas off of and workshop things with. If I didn't have a mentor, I would feel a lot more disorganized and unsupported.

Final Thoughts: My academic concentration allowed me to focus on what I love. It's also nice to get recognition for all the hard work that I'm putting in, because I do work really hard on all the shows.

So at graduation, when they announce I’m graduating with a Concentration in Fine Arts — I did that, I worked really hard, and I earned that.

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Being able to focus on one aspect of technical theater and explore directing has been really nice. It also influenced me to go into a conservatory program, which is more intense; you don't take general education classes, you only take theater classes. So I think being able to focus on this in high school has really made me realize that I want to focus on it in college, too.

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MEET OUR NEW BOARD OF TRUSTEES CHAIR

Elizabeth Lester ’88 Elizabeth Lester ’88 became Chair of Foxcroft’s Board of Trustees on July 1, 2025.

A Trustee since 2019, Lester is currently the Head of Global Store Design and Development for New Balance.

We recently caught up with her to answer a few questions on topics ranging from the best advice she’s received to her thoughts on Foxcroft’s future.

Here is a brief but close-up look at our newest Chair of the Board of Trustees.

The best piece of advice you have received?

To seek out mentors … Surround yourself with people who challenge you to grow, who speak truth with kindness, and who stand by you through every high and low. These relationships are the foundation not just of a successful career, but of a fulfilling life. We’ve all heard the saying, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” I believe that deeply.

Fox or Hound?

Loyal to the Royal - GO HOUNDS!!!

Favorite Foxcroft Tradition?

This is a tough one. Foxcroft’s traditions are truly at the heart of what makes the School so special. But if I had to choose just one, it would be Fox/Hound.

There’s something magical about the camaraderie within each team, the lighthearted rivalry, and the way it all culminates in a shared celebration of community, regardless of who wins.

Fox/Hound captures so many of the values Miss Charlotte hoped to instill in every Foxcroft girl: integrity, spirit, unity, and joy. Even now, years after graduating, it remains a powerful point of connection. Whether I’m meeting alumnae across the country or halfway

around the world, Fox/Hound is our common language. Did I mention: GO HOUNDS! When you consider where Foxcroft could be decades from now, what are your hopes?

I hope to return for my 50th and 60th reunions to find Foxcroft thriving, alive with the energy of girls learning, competing, growing, and stepping into their power as confident leaders. I hope the School feels just as familiar, yet continues to evolve alongside the young women it serves — honoring tradition while embracing change. I hope each student leaves with not only knowledge, but a lasting sense of purpose and a commitment to giving back.

What lessons from New Balance have you found applicable as Board Chair at Foxcroft?

One of the most important is agility — the ability to adapt quickly and thoughtfully in a changing environment. I’ve learned that embracing change isn’t just necessary; it’s empowering. That mindset has helped me approach opportunities at Foxcroft with confidence and flexibility.

I’ve also learned the importance of taking initiative, staying accountable, and being proactive in driving progress.

Finally, communication and collaboration are at the heart of everything. These lessons have helped me lead with clarity, compassion, and conviction, and I’m grateful to apply them in the service of a place as special as Foxcroft.

Why is it important for you to give back to Foxcroft with your time, talent, and treasure?

Foxcroft gave me more than an education. It gave me the confidence to be comfortable in my own skin, the conviction to speak up, and the wisdom to listen and make space for other voices.

It was a place where I could explore, take risks, and discover who I wanted to be. That kind of growth doesn’t happen everywhere, and it’s why I feel so strongly about giving back with my time, talent, and treasure. Foxcroft is a rare and special place. By giving back, I help ensure that its legacy continues for the next generation of girls who will grow, lead, and thrive because of it.

2025–26 Board of Trustees Chair

Elizabeth Lester ’88

Vice Chair

Bernadette Schuetz Russell ’03

Treasurer

Jeanette Moore ’88

Secretary

Kimberley Elting ’82

Chair, Committee on Trustees

K. Victoria (Vicki) Threlfall ’81, P ’21

Board of Trustees

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FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE

Alumnae Council

By Courtney Maier Burbela ’85 I’m so honored to serve as your new Alumnae Council President! Every time I step into a room, or even a Zoom meeting, with Foxcroft women, I’m reminded of the connection we share through our experiences, the energy to make a difference, and the creativity that makes this community so special. Over the next three years, I want to harness that energy to strengthen connections, spark collaboration, and make alumnae involvement both meaningful and fun.

Here’s what’s ahead: Committees with momentum: Our committees are where ideas take flight, and I want to give them the structure to truly thrive. That’s why we’ve launched One Hour a Month — (nonmandatory) monthly Saturday work sessions giving us a chance to roll up our sleeves, work on projects side by side, and enjoy the camaraderie of working together while moving the ball forward. My hope is that it will be a simple, welcoming way to keep things moving forward and keep everyone engaged without feeling overwhelmed.

Celebrating our Class Reps: Class Representatives are the heartbeat of the alumnae network. This year, we’ll find ways to celebrate and support them — special gatherings, shared resources, and new opportunities to connect across classes and even across cities. Beyond keeping us in touch, these roles offer a chance to build leadership skills, expand our networks, and perhaps even find a tennis or bridge partner (or two)!

Traditions + Spirit: Foxcroft isn’t Foxcroft without traditions. Fox/Hound isn’t just for students — it’s for us, too. Leaning into our traditions keeps the magic alive and ties alumnae of every generation together.

The vision is simple: a thriving alumnae community that works together, laughs together, and builds something lasting for future Foxcroft women.

Thank you for all that you’ve already done and for what we’ll accomplish together. Here’s to friendship, school spirit, and making this next chapter our best yet.

Stay in Touch and Get Involved!

Here's how: Follow our Socials: fxcalumnae (Instagram) and Foxcroft School Alumnae (Facebook) Reach out to the Office of Institutional Advancement: advancement@foxcroft.org, 540.687.4510 Scan this QR code: to express interest in serving on the Alumnae Council.

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Out & About

Gatherings around the country — whether official Foxcroft events attended by Head of School Dr. Lisa Kaenzig, or informal outings organized locally — celebrate the shared experience of Foxcroft. All photo captions are from left to right.

SEOUL SOUTH KOREA In July, Alex Northrup, Director of The Innovation Lab and member of the History Department, was selected as a delegate to participate in a geography education conference and field study in South Korea. During his visit, Alex enjoyed dinner with Jessie Liang ’26, Carrie Hsueh ’16, and Sharon Tseng ’08.

1. Jessie Liang ’26, Carrie Hsueh ’16, Alex Northrup, and Sharon Tseng ’08.

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RICHMOND VIRGINIA

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In October 2025, Cathy and Read McGehee welcomed guests to their home for a lovely cocktail reception with Dr. Kaenzig.

It was a wonderful evening filled with great conversation and connection.

2. Back row: Christine de Denus, Whitney Hansen ’02, Amy Edgemond ’14, Nicolette Merle-Smith ’05, Mary Earle McElroy ’80, Carey Seitz Leahey ’88, Maria Saffer Cobb ’87, Megan Porter, Ellie Meyer Roberts ’11, Ryan Porter. Front row: Terry Meyer, Jenny Friar, Christy Crowther ’92, Dr. Lisa Kaenzig, Flavia Ruffner ’88, Reeves McReynolds McCune ’87, Cathy McGehee, Stephanie Ford P’24, Brian Ford P’24, Read McGehee.

Not pictured: Dotty Reynolds Brotherton ’70, Julia Reynolds Swords ’66, Margaret Reynolds Mackell ’63, Thomas Mackell, Meg Lamond Zehmer ’84, Anthony Caputy, Tina Caputy, Penelope Saffer.

CHARLOTTESVILLE VIRGINIA In October 2025, Foxcroft and Dr. Kaenzig hosted a lovely luncheon at Hamilton’s at First & Main in Charlottesville.

Nestled on the historic Downtown Mall, the restaurant’s cheerful, cozy atmosphere made it the perfect setting for catching up and sharing stories.

3. Standing: Sophie Massie ’05, Janis Leslie Conlon ’74, Liza Todd Edgerton ’71, Marcia Flinn Wilkes ’93, Dr. Lisa Kaenzig, Martina Caputy Arthur ’10, Amanda McGuire ’84. Seated: Linda Uihlein ’72, Elizabeth Hazard ’82, Meredith Harris Leveillee ’10.

Not pictured: Johannah Dottori ’81

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Gone Away

ALUMNAE ON CAMPUS OPENING DAYS AND FAMILY WEEKEND

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With 18% of our students related to alumnae, it’s no surprise that we see so many of them back on campus.

Opening Days saw several alumnae moving their daughters into dorms.

4. Aradeal Hatcher ’26 and Holly Beth Eckhardt Hatcher ’87 5. Sean McCaskey, Caitlin McCaskey ’29, and Susan Young McCaskey ’90 6. Phebe Mason Wahl ’96, Ellie Wahl ’27, and Geoffrey Wahl 7. Charles Youles, Shelby Youles ’26, and Betty Sayler Youles ’81 Family Weekend also brought alumnae back to campus to enjoy time with their daughters.

8. Youki Tomimatsu ’27 and Hanako Tomimatsu ’94 9. David Walker, Elizabeth Walker ’28, and Anne Dudley Walker ’87

Send your Gone Away and Milestones news to the Office of Institutional Advancement at advancement@foxcroft.org. All photo captions are from left to right.

When submitting photos, please send high-resolution (300 dpi or better) digital files. Gone Away photos were submitted between June 2 and November 2, 2025.

1983 MEA ANDERSON STONE: Living my best life with my husband and the goats. We took four Angora goats to the Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair in Asheville, NC and came home smiling.

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7 1. Judy Asuzu Lagrou ’04, Morgan Manley ’07, Courtney Maier Burbela ’85, Jessica Mirshak ’07, Katy Bruni ’85, Jeannie Ryan ’85, Laura Block ’07, and Charlotte Rabbe ’05 gathered for lunch in New York City.

2. Wedding Sangeet ceremony of Bebe Jones Doppalapudi ’13 and Dr. Sai Doppalapudi in the North Carolina mountains, November 2024.

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3. Class of 1978 alumnae Sally Bartholomay Downey and Lisa Bard Knowles reunited in Nashville.

4. Class of 2013 members Carter Ware Perrella, Elsie Spencer, Miranda Raschid Marks, Sally Mann Billings, Olivia Jane Johnson Duffy, and Caroline Fout at the wedding of classmate Bebe Jones and Dr. Sai Doppalapudi.

5. Mea Anderson Stone ’83 and her husband at the Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair in Asheville, NC. 6. Mea Anderson Stone ’83 proudly displaying her awards.

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7. Sally Bartholomay Downey ’78 with Sandy Briggs Greene ’78 at Grand Teton National Park.

8. On October 5, Chelsy Coil '08 was celebrated by her Foxcroft friends and family at a bridal shower at the home of Stephanie Jordan, mother of Ariana Ash '06, in Maryland. (front, left-right) Chelsy and C.C. Cobaugh '06. (back, left-right) Jessi Coil Jewell '06, Jane Lockhart, and Ariana.

9. Foxcroft Class of 2012 alumnae Olivia Gotwald, Sydney Kim, Devon McCarthy Crosby, Maeve Couzens, Alex Carr, Charlotte Wright Rossetter, and Mckenzie Canard gathered to celebrate Devon’s wedding at LionRock Farm in Sharon, CT. 34 Foxcroft Magazine

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8¾łáŨáĘĘΟϒΟƈ¾ğĔΟ¬Ħœ The Foxcroft Community remembers former Board of Trustees members.

ÿ¾łĘáņΟƈĦоņΟͽ ĦĞ;Ο]¾ŮΟRł͒ Charles “Tom” passed away on September 27, 2025, in Dallas,

Tom loved American Impressionism and began his art

TX. He was the father of Laura R. May ’86 and served on the

collection in 1961. He served on the acquisition committee

Foxcroft Board of Trustees from 1991-1994. He and his wife,

of the Dallas Museum of Art and was an enthusiastic

Eleanor May Sykes, celebrated 66 years of marriage this year.

supporter of the Dallas Symphony. He served as a past president of the Friends of Human Nutrition at UTSW and

Tom graduated from Arlington Heights High School in Fort Worth, TX, in 1948. In 1952, he graduated from the University of

previously served on the boards of St. Michael School in Dallas and the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen, TX.

Texas with a business degree. He was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity, where he served as house manager. After

He is survived by his wife Eleanor, his daughter Laura R.

graduation, he served as a Navy Officer on a destroyer during

May ’86, grandsons Thomas, Sterling Jr., and Warren,

the Korean War. Tom started selling securities while at the

and his sister Carole Baker of Minneapolis, MN. He was

University and opened May Financial Corporation in 1968. He

preceded in death by his son, Christopher Thomas May.

was a past president of the Dallas Security Dealers Association.

Milestones Our heartfelt sympathies to all our alumnae who have recently lost loved ones.

Sympathy To CYNTHIA GOULD WILCOX 1958 on the loss of her daughter CHARLOTTE CHESTON BETANCOURT 1961 on the loss of her sister MICHELLE GROSJEAN BREWSTER 1962 on the loss of her sister ANNE CASEY VAN DEN BERGH 1967 on the loss of her sister CORNELIA BROOKE GILDER 1967 on the loss of her sister

LAURA MAY 1986 on the loss of her father

BARBARA PATTY MANÉE 1956

ELIZABETH PARRISH FLOYD 1998, MEREDITH PARRISH 2002 on the loss of their mother

DAPHNE GROSJEAN DE LA HAMAIDE 1964

MARLOW BUCKNER 2022 on the loss of her grandmother

MARY AMES 1957

LOUISA BROOKE 1965 DAPHNE WARBURG ASTOR 1967 EDITH CASEY 1969

Marriages & Commitments

SUSAN DAYTON 1971

DEVON MCCARTHY 2012 to Christian Crosby

ELIZABETH WILCOX STEVENSON 1982

BLANCHE JONES 2013 to Sai Doppalapudi

LINDSAY BEHNEN 2001

ELIZABETH PYLE 1972 KIMBERLY BASSETT 1982 NANCY MOORE KLEIN 1989

In Memoriam

In Memoriam }¾ņŎΟ8¾×œĘŎŮΟ¾ğÝΟ Ŏ¾Ɓ

TREVANIA DUDLEY HENDERSON 1976 on the loss of her son

ELIZABETH ALDRICH REDMOND 1943

SARAH THOMPSON

SANDRA MANÉE EVANS 1982 on the loss of her mother

ALICE PATTERSON SLADE 1948

CAROL PYLE 1972 on the loss of her sister

MARY CHESTON MCADOO 1946 DIANA PARISH MCKISSOCK 1952 3 Obituaries and Milestones 35

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February 27–29 • Fox/Hound Basketball Games

April 16–18 • Alumnae Reunion Weekend

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May 1 • Admission Open House

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May 29 • Commencement for the Class of 2026

April 23–25 • Spring Theatre Production DO YOU KNOW A FOXCROFT GIRL?

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