mission
Miami Country Day School empowers every student, every day, everywhere to learn with vigor, explore with purpose, strive for excellence, and serve with honor, respect, and compassion as global citizens.
We do this in a community where every student is known and included by engaging the whole child, in and out of the classroom, as they discover their full potential.
values vision
Our vision is to be a global Prek3-12 school community where excellence is values-based, purposeful, and experiential learning happens for every student, every day, everywhere; at home, in the classroom, in Miami, and around the globe.
MCDS lives its mission by faithfully guarding its values of PURPOSE, HONOR, RESPECT, COMPASSION, AND WISDOM.
We ensure they are evident in our policies, programs, and practices. Our values are the shared commitments we make to each other, and as a community, in honor of our past, present, and future.
SUCCEEDING TOGETHER: CONNECTING, COLLABORATING, AND ELEVATING OUR COMMUNITY
It is through connection, collaboration, and philanthropy that our community continues to grow and thrive. Over the course of the last year, we have seen many examples of how we have succeeded together to elevate the experiences for our students. Through programming, professional development, and operational excellence, our community has shown its unwavering commitment to the students for whom we exist, and we have strengthened every aspect of our School. Thanks to the generosity of this community, we have been able to make all we wanted to accomplish a reality, for philanthropy is an important driver of the success of our institution.
I am continually inspired and grateful for the generosity of spirit that defines our school community. The impact of philanthropy—through time, expertise, and resources—touches every aspect of our students’ experience. From the teachers in our classrooms and students actively engaged in learning, to the vibrant arts, athletics, and auxiliary programs, the dedicated staff, and our facilities and food service teams, each plays a vital role in bringing our mission to life. These experiences are possible because of individuals who care deeply and give generously. A special thank-you is due to our Board of Trustees, whose steadfast commitment to advancing the Strategic Plan continues to shape the future of Country Day. When the 2024–2025 school year began, construction on the foundation of our new athletic facility was well underway. As the Class of 2025 prepared for graduation, the newly named Woodhouse Athletic Center had risen above ground and was taking shape, on time and on budget. (See story, pp 9-11)
Alongside this milestone, planning for a new Upper School building is also in motion, with design work continuing throughout the 2025–2026 school year. With valuable input from students, faculty, and Upper School leadership, we are approaching this project with a thoughtful focus on creating purposeful, collaborative spaces that will nourish a love of learning for each student. This is more than a building; we will create spaces that will facilitate creative problem-solving, the spirited negotiation of ideas, and the development of the best results. This is what deeper learning looks like, and this is what we will build for all students at MCDS. I look forward to sharing more updates in the new year as we also begin work on the school’s new strategic plan.
As we begin a new school year, one of my favorite moments is welcoming our students, teachers, and families back to campus. That first day always reminds me of the energy and potential we create when we are together. I am confident that by staying connected, working collaboratively, and continuing to build for the future, we will once again achieve great success in the year ahead.
With sincere appreciation and Spartan Pride,
Mariandl Hufford President and Head of School
2024- 2025 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
OFFICERS OF THE BOARD
The officers of the board occupy the leadership positions that guide the board activities and decisions.
Matthew Whitman Lazenby, Chairman of the Board
Claudia Brod, President
Gerald W. Moore ’68, Vice President
Kevin King ’95, Treasurer
Sean Clancy, Secretary
James W. Moore ’65, Past Chairman
Christopher Bellows, Past President
BOARD MEMBERS
The remaining trustees outside of the officers make up the members of the Board that help guard the MCDS Mission.
Michael Allen, Ph.D.
Janice Barefoot
Karleen Halliwell
Daniel Harwin
Gigi Jeffries
Jared Lustbader
Cam Murphy ‘06
Anna Schneur
Stephen Schott
Daniel Standen
Richard Tester
Nick Woodhouse
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Mariandl Hufford, President and Head of School
David Butter ‘13, President, Alumni Board
TRUSTEE EMERITUS
Our trustees that left a legacy behind for what they gave in service to the school:
Barbara North Burton
John F. “Bud” Farrey
J. Michael Garner
Javier Holtz
Osmond C. Howe, Jr.
Terry Jove
Anne Paulk
Mark C. Piper
Howard Premer
PICTURED ABOVE:
Front row: Claudia Brod, Karleen Halliwell, Gigi Jeffries
Back row: Chris Bellows, James W. Moore ’65, Nick Woodhouse, Danny Harwin, Richard Tester, Sean Clancy
LIFETIME EMERITUS
Our trustees who are deceased and left a legacy behind for what they gave to the school are acknowledged for their role: Richard S. Banick
Edwin B. Cole
Michael J. Franco
Elizabeth Hach
Sol A. Saad
Lawrence M. Stanfill
Stanley F. Whitman
SOL ALAN SAAD
(3/13/1951 – 5/16/2025)
Sol served on the Board of Trustees from 2010 through 2021. During his 11-year tenure, he chaired the Finance Committee every year and served as Board Treasurer in 2020–2021. He was also member of the Audit, Investment, and Development Committees, as well as agile teams: the Financial Aid Policy Committee, Strategic Planning & Coordination Committee, and Evaluation & Compensation Task Force. Miami Country Day School is grateful for his years of service and honors his legacy as a Trustee Emeritus.
Claudia Brod, Board President
As I wrapped up my 15th year as a Miami Country Day School parent this past May, I found myself reflecting on our family’s journey. With two of our children now graduates and beginning their college years at the University of Texas, my husband Steven and I are excited to watch our youngest, Jack, enter his junior year as a proud member of the Class of 2027.
Each of our three children has their own unique learning style, and I am so proud of how the teachers and administration at MCDS have met their ever-evolving needs over the years. Their dedication, flexibility, and compassion have made all the difference.
As our family has grown and changed, we’ve also had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of the MCDS campus. Just a few years after we joined the community, the Koch Athletic Complex and the Franco Center opened in 2011. In 2017, we celebrated the opening of the Center for the Arts, and now we look forward to the newest transformation: the Woodhouse Athletic Center and soon after, a new Upper School. While our children will not be on campus to enjoy this newest facility, we’re thrilled that future Spartans will benefit from it—and we’re proud to play a part through our support of the Build the Legacy Campaign.
Our philanthropic journey with the school has grown alongside our understanding of what it takes to provide the exceptional experience that defines MCDS. I still remember our very first gift: $25 to donate a library book. Our first Annual Fund gift was $500. As we learned more about the school and the resources required to sustain its mission, we felt inspired to give more. We’re honored to support the programs and projects that bring that mission to life.
I know that every family’s journey is different, and everyone’s understanding of philanthropy is personal. The ability to give—and the reasons we give—can vary. But what matters most is that we all support the school to the best of our ability. Just as each child learns in their own way, there is no single “right” way or amount to give. The simple act of showing up for our teachers, our programs, and our community makes a meaningful difference. If your circumstances change, I hope you’ll reflect on how you can continue to contribute in a way that feels right for you.
In 2016, as a new member of the Board of Trustees, I wrote an article titled Reasons Why I Give to Miami Country Day School. Rereading it today, I realize that the same reasons still hold true. A great school is much more than academics—it’s about teachers, class composition, enrichment opportunities, athletics, and the spaces in which our children learn and grow. MCDS has become an integral part of our lives. This school is a community, a home, and a legacy.
We give because we believe in a lasting legacy of love for learning, life skills, friendship, and memories. These are the gifts that Miami Country Day School has given to our children—and for that, we are forever grateful.
A CONVERSATION WITH Matthew W. Lazenby Chairman of the Board of Trustees
Matthew Whitman Lazenby, President and Chief Executive Officer of Whitman Family Development, LLC, is the fourthgeneration leader of the family-owned business that began developing commercial real estate in Miami in the early twentieth century. Lazenby represents his company in development, leasing, operational and asset-management issues for the international, luxury shopping destination Bal Harbour Shops, and for the 500,000 square feet of retail space at Brickell City Centre.
Matthew began his service to Miami Country Day School as a Board member in 2007. He continued as Secretary of the Board in 2010 and continued in that position until he took over as President in 2020. He began his current role in 2024 as Chairman of the Board.
Q: Beginning with your grandfather, your family has been a part of Country Day’s history for over 40 years. What do you recall about that relationship and if/why it inspired you to want to join the board?
A: My family has always believed in strong communities and at the heart of every strong community is a strong school. We believe in the transformative power of education. What’s the question? Education is the answer.
Q: What do you see as the most important role for you and your fellow Board members?
A: The Board safeguards the School’s mission and ensures its Head has the resources she needs to execute the strategic plan. We are front line cheerleaders and we believe in our President and Head of School.
Q: Teachers hold a special place in your heart. Having been a teacher, what do you see as the most important way the school can support our teachers in their role?
A: There simply is no more important role out there than educator. All of us had that teacher in our lives - some of us have been blessed to have more than one - who literally opened our eyes and, consequently, changed our lives. As we start to sail away from governance and into operations, it’s not for me to say how the School will support its teachers but I proudly support Miami Country Day School knowing with certainty that it will.
Q: If you were a teacher today, what would you want to convey to both parents and students about learning? How is it different today and what do you think it will need to look like for the future?
A: In some ways - the ones that get all the attentionnothing about teaching and learning is the same. AI has changed the game and the smartest among us don’t have all the answers but instead know just what question to ask, how to ask it, and maybe even how many times it needs to be asked. And there’s some truth to that. But…the smartest people I know have always asked the most questions since long before AI was a thing. You can read a book and laugh and cry through every page, but it doesn’t change your life until you talk about it. Discussion–that’s where the real learning happens. It always has. I think it always will.
Q: Why is philanthropy so crucial for Country Day’s future?
A: Independent Schools must do everything well. Academics, Athletics, The Arts: All of it. If your son plays the guitar, you want a top-notch music education. If your daughter is a swimmer, you want a top-notch swim program. If she is also
a young engineer, you want a world class STEM program. Our families want it all and we dutifully provide it. We’re really good at providing it. But it costs a lot of money. To excel at our mission costs money and we aspire to be among our families’ top philanthropic commitments. I am proud that Miami Country Day School has been among my family’s top philanthropic commitments for over 40 years.
Q: What is one of your most proud moments during your tenure as a member of the Board of Trustees (the past 18 years!)
A: I had the privilege of co-chairing the search committee which brought President and Head of School Mariandl Hufford to us. I should have immediately retired after that. You can’t do much better than that.
Q: Do you make time to read and if so, what’s your preferred genre and are you currently reading a book you recommend?
A: I read a few classics with my 13-year-old son, Will, this summer. I recently read a book by Ezra Klein called Abundance, which I recommend. In it, he explores the pitfalls of a scarcity mindset (which he posits prevails today) and advocates instead for an America of abundance: housing, food, energy. It’s very thought-provoking.
1938 SOCIETY
The 1938 Society recognizes the leadership of those benefactors whose cumulative monetary gifts or irrevocable gifts to Miami Country Day School have reached $1 million or more. In 2015 during the school’s 75th Anniversary year, former Head of School, Dr. John Davies, recognized members of the inaugural class of the 1938 Society. A sculpture titled Wisdom by Santiago Medina was installed on the Plaza de Colombia as a symbolic representation to honor present and future members. Thank you to our current 1938 Society members for your generosity to Miami Country Day School.
THE 1938 SOCIETY
$1,000,000 + C.W. “Doc” and Hette Abele
The Bautista Family
The Bergman Family
The Bravo Family
The Brod Family
The Chaplin and Jove Families
Scott and Gislaine Collins
The Eaton Family
The Forbes Family
Michael J. and Katherine E. Franco
The Garner Moore Family
The Harwin Family
Roger L. Koch
The Lustbader Family
The Nixdorf Family
Ormond-Plagens and Soto – St. Charles Families
The Parents’ Association
The Tester Family
The Whitman / Lazenby Family
The Woodhouse Family
Board Members
KATY BRAVO
Orlando, Amara ’35, Vivi ‘39
Over the next few years, I am most excited about helping shape the future of MCDS as it continues to evolve as a leader in innovative, student-centered education. I’m especially inspired by the school’s commitment to academic excellence, emotional intelligence, and global citizenship. It’s exciting to see a renewed focus on raising academic standards and deepening rigor to position MCDS among the top independent schools in the country.
From the moment we toured MCDS, we felt a genuine sense of warmth and community — it had a true family feel. We were also drawn to the beautiful, expansive campus and all the opportunities it offers, from the huge fields and swimming pool to the wide range of activities. It felt like a place where our children could truly thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally.
DAVID FORBES
Velda Turan, Zoe ‘36, Stephanie
I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to help elevate an already excellent school and campus into a truly awardwinning, state-of-the-art institute of learning and growth. The ambitious vision that Miami Country Day School has—not just for its place in Miami, but across Florida and beyond—is one that deeply resonates with me. These are the kinds of bold goals I not only embrace but embody.
MCDS is clearly committed to excellence—not only in academics, but in athletics and the development of wellrounded young people. With the investment in a new sports facility, a brand-new, state-of-the-art high school, and several forward-thinking projects on the horizon—including a new cafeteria, a redeveloped middle and lower school, and a new ACES building—the campus is poised to become a magnet for top-tier students and talented educators alike.
I’ve always believed in the power of continuity in education— a place where a child can start their journey and grow all the way through. As my family explored schools that offered that experience, Miami Country Day School consistently rose to the top of the list in conversations with others. Now, four years into my daughter’s journey at MCDS, I couldn’t imagine her being anywhere else. She is thriving—not only academically, but socially and emotionally, and that’s a direct result of the leadership, faculty, and community that shape this school.
I have no doubt that, when her time at Miami Country Day comes to an end, she will leave as a stronger, more capable, and well-rounded individual. And I am honored to be a part of a school community that is so deeply committed to shaping the future.
LAUREN ROTH
Yoav, Logan ’32, Dylan, ’33
I’m especially excited about the opening of the new Woodhouse Athletic Center—it’s such an inspiring investment in student wellness, teamwork, and school spirit. As our son, Logan, begins middle school in 6th grade and our daughter, Dylan, enters 5th grade, I’m looking forward to watching them continue to grow— both academically and personally—supported by this vibrant community and the incredible resources that make MCDS so special. I’m also excited to see the school continue to grow in such a positive direction, especially with the addition of so many wonderful new families. I look forward to welcoming them and being part of a community that thrives on connection, inclusivity, and shared purpose.
We chose Miami Country Day because of its warm, inclusive culture, strong academic foundation, and commitment to developing the whole child. From the moment we stepped onto campus, we felt the energy and heart of the community. It’s a place where students are not only challenged and supported but truly known. And every time we’re on campus, it’s so clear how happy and engaged the students are—there’s just a joy here that’s unmistakable.
ATHLETIC CENTER GRAND OPENING
Dec. 13th, 12-4pm Saturday Community event
The Woodhouse
In January, at the State of School Address, the exciting news was shared that Miami Country Day is receiving a contribution that will enhance this already outstanding community. Because of this donation, the new athletic center will be named the Woodhouse Athletic Center.
“Athletics have always been a cornerstone of learning, teaching teamwork, perseverance, and resilience—values we hold dear as a family. We are so excited to see this center come to life and to know it will be a place that inspires our children, Blake and Sloane, and their friends, as well as future Spartans for years to come,” shared parents, Nick and Jocelyn Woodhouse. “Our hope is that the Woodhouse Athletic Center will be a space where students can explore their potential, build lasting friendships, and find joy in movement and competition. It’s about more than just sports—it’s about building character, fostering community, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.”
As of August 31, the Woodhouse Athletic Center had a complete roof, and the interior work was well underway. The windows are installed, and the building is taking shape. The school anticipates receipt of our temporary certificate of occupancy at the end of November, which will allow us to start programming and hosting athletic events at the beginning of January, in time for second-semester classes, practices, and home basketball games. Plans are underway for a ribbon-cutting community celebration on Saturday, December 13.
“The Woodhouse Athletic Center is currently on time and on budget,” said Tim Walsh, COO. “The total cost to build is $30 million and I’m happy to report the biggest challenge around construction has been the tight space and being on the corner of two busy roads. The teams we have worked with have been exceptional and include The Cumming Group-Owner’s Representatives, Moss-Construction, and
they
done an amazing job to keep the timeline and limit interruptions during the construction.”
The Woodhouse Athletic Center will connect by way of a tunnel to the current gym on the first floor and will provide a total of almost 30,000 square feet of new facility. It includes a gymnasium of 11,300 s.f. with seating for 500, a Fitness Center at 3,400 s.f.,1,400 s.f. of new locker rooms, and a Spartan Store at 1,550 s.f.
There is a lot of excitement around every aspect of this new facility, in particular what it will offer in terms of improved and new programming.
A key feature is its integration of wellness into the academic day across all divisions. Lower and Middle School students will have more opportunities to engage in movement-based activities and wellness lessons that build coordination, promote teamwork, and support emotional growth. There will be new and reimagined for-credit courses in Upper School, including Sport Psychology and Introduction to Sports Medicine, which will lay the foundation for lifelong healthy habits. Courses like Jiu Jitsu, Yoga and Mindfulness, and Fitness for Life will help our oldest students explore physical fitness in new and diverse ways, while also equipping them with strategies for managing stress and building mental clarity.
Stratus/Zyscovich-Architects. Together,
have
Athletic Center
“Wellness education is a vital component of enhanced programming that the Woodhouse Athletic Center will provide. Space where students can address stress, develop coping skills, and explore the psychological side of performance, because we know that these tools are just as valuable in a classroom as on a sports field,” said Jennifer Sennett, Wellness Education Department Chair and Community Service Coordinator.
“It will also serve as a gathering space to foster community and Spartan Pride. More than a fitness center, it will be a catalyst for health, resilience, and community across the entire Spartan experience.”
A GLANCE INTO THE WOODHOUSE ATHLETIC CENTER:
A new 11,000-square-foot championship arena gymnasium that will allow greater flexibility in scheduling, provide more dedicated practice times, and reduce scheduling conflicts for teams. It will also build Spartan pride, by enabling more students, faculty, and families to cheer on our athletes in intra- and inter-scholastic competition.
A new two-story, 7,500 square-foot fitness center with a dedicated cardio area and multi-purpose rooms for group classes. It will include modern equipment enabling us to deliver expert-led training sessions for athletes and diverse wellness education classes, promoting a holistic approach to fitness and lifelong wellness.
New locker rooms for both home and visiting teams, where student-athletes can dress and prepare for both practice and competition. Each locker room is designed with two separate areas connected by showers in the center, allowing teams to access the spaces independently.
A dedicated training suite, where student-athletes can seek and receive the proactive and recuperative care that they need to perform at their very best.
A new lobby featuring the Spartan Athletic Hall of Fame, where the championships earned by our players and coaches will be highlighted and celebrated.
The School’s first-ever Spartan Store, where students, faculty, and families can purchase Spartan gear.
Private athletics offices for coaches and trainers.
“Miami Country Day has been instrumental in shaping our children’s growth and development, academically and as individuals. It’s a community we deeply value, and we’re honored to give back by naming the Woodhouse Athletic Center. We believe this new center is a testament to the school’s commitment to excellence, and we’re honored to play a part in shaping the next chapter of this incredible community. From our family to the Miami Country Day family: thank you for letting us be part of this amazing journey. We can’t wait to see the incredible things our children and their peers will accomplish here. Here’s to the future—and go Spartans.”
Jocelyn and Nick Woodhouse
THE LEGACY SOCIETY
David Smith
A Message from David Smith, Chief Advancement Officer
Since my first day at Miami Country Day School, I have felt the energy and warmth of this extraordinary community. I share the school’s deep commitment to students and teachers. That commitment is what drives us forward, and it’s why this year’s theme, Elevate, resonates so strongly with me.
One of my core commitments is to keep you informed about all aspects of our advancement efforts - from the Spartan Impact Fund and our Capital Campaign, to the many other ways we are working to Elevate the Spartan experience for every student and family.
Independent schools operate with a complex financial model built on two essential revenue streams: tuition and philanthropy. Tuition supports day-to-day operations, including paying the teachers who inspire our students. Our broader efforts to support the mission - from enhancing programs and facilities to acquiring new property - depend on giving.
One of my goals this year is to provide greater transparency around our budget and financial model. We want to help our community understand how giving makes a difference and why it matters. The Spartan Impact Fund (our annual giving program) directly supports the aspirations of our President and Head of School, our faculty and staff, and most importantly, our students.
We want to say yes to every great idea from every teacher and every student. We never want financial limitations to stand in the way of innovation, creativity, or inspiration.
Throughout my career in independent schools, I’ve focused on building advancement operations that serve the entire community - connecting families to the school’s big-picture vision and supporting them as they grow in their philanthropic journey. I believe fundraising is a collective community effort, and when we come together with purpose, we can achieve our most ambitious goals.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions. Together, we will continue to elevate all that makes Miami Country Day School a remarkable place.
Warm regards, David Smith, Chief Advancement Officer
305-779-7236; smithd@miamicountryday.org
The Legacy Society provides long-term financial assistance for Miami Country Day School. Individuals and families who are members of the Legacy Society are supporting the financial sustainability of the school through bequests made by a will, life insurance policy, or other estate gifts.
All planned gifts add strength to the school’s endowment, which is the financial foundation for a successful educational institution. Endowed funds generate income and support scholarships, teachers, buildings, programs, and other important purposes set by the Board of Trustees.
There are many planned giving options available, such as naming Miami Country Day School as a beneficiary in your will or charitable gift annuities that provide a steady income for you and your family during your lifetime.
The following individuals and families supported, or they are supporting, the financial sustainability of the school by including Miami Country Day School in their estate plans to provide the school with the necessary funding to offer an extraordinary education to students.
LEGACY SOCIETY MEMBERS
Anonymous
C.W. “Doc” Abele
James and Alexandra Bergman
Gary and Peggy Butts
John and Roxanne Davies
John C. “Jack” DuBois
Michael J. Franco
Dorothy Frohlich Estate
Bertha Goldstein Estate
Elizabeth “Betty” Hach
Rose Sampson Estate
Bruce and Meryl Tabatchnick
FOR INFORMATION ABOUT PLANNED GIVING OPTIONS, CONTACT: David Smith, Chief Advancement Officer at 305-779-7236, smithd@miamicountryday.org
BUILD THE LEGACY DONORS AS OF JUNE 30, 2025
Thank you to the following donors who have made early campaign commitments to invest in the future of the school. For more information on the project and how you can get involved, please contact David Smith, Chief Advancement Officer at smithd@miamicountryday.org.
Leonard Abess ‘62 and Jayne Abess
Bob and Karin Ajmani
Jeremy and Amanda Barouh
Cesar Barroso Mendez and Jhosifranny Tovar
Chris Bellows
Adam and Jaclyn Bergman
The Bock Family
Orlando and Katy Bravo
John Brecker and Heather Walters Brecker
Steven and Claudia Brod
Sean Clancy and Dina Cellini
Scott and Gislaine Collins
Horacio Rivera Orozco and Adriana De Rivera
Ross and Cassandra Devor
Gil Dezer
James and Cecily Eaton
Peter and Lauren Feld
Robert and Rochelle Finvarb
Christopher and Tannaz Fiore
David Forbes and Velda Turan
The Garner Foundation, Inc.
John Michael Garner ‘49
Gerald W. Moore ‘68
James W. Moore ‘65
Kathryn Anne Paulk
Janice G. Topping
Meg G. Wright ‘77
Randy and Debra Gelber
David and Ilana Gitman
Daniel and Kathy Haime
Jack and Karleen Halliwell
Danny and Mo Harwin
Robert and Mariandl Hufford
Jeff and Gigi Jeffries
Arie Jusidman
Kevin J. King ‘95 and Tricia A. King
Alex Kleyner and Diana Ulis
Matthew Whitman Lazenby Family
Stanley and Dorothy Whitman Family Foundation
Jared and Melissa Lustbader
Eric and Myriam Malka
Sebastian Malo and Soledad Maria Malo
Josh and Stacey Mandel
Gregg and Barbara Miller
Cam Murphy ‘06
Pete Ormond and Dana Plagens
Parents’ Association - Miami Country Day School
Todd Michaels and Brandi Paul
Peter Pietrzkiewicz
Fred and Caroline Puren
Yoav and Lauren Roth
David Salanic and Alexandra Haime-Salanic ‘05
Ryan Schinman and Samantha Schinman ‘03
Eugene and Anna Schneur
Daniel and Andrea Standen
Randy and Melina Starr
Matthew and Natalia Storm
Alan Strauss and Natalie Brod
Richard and Kirsty Tester
Lance Tinkler ‘01 and Jenny Tinkler
J. Randall and Charmaine Waterfield
Steven White and Ana Pavlovic
Scott and Brynn Tomlinson
Nicholas and Jocelyne Woodhouse
Liad and Lorraine Zadok
Nicholas Zocchi and Janice Barefoot
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR 2024-2025 SPARTAN IMPACT FUND
DONORS for supporting our students and teachers with your philanthropic dollars.
Spartan Impact Fund Donors
Anonymous
Bill Abbo and Jessica S. Mishaan ‘03
Leonard ‘62 and Jayne Abess
Matthew and Taylor Abess
Leonardo and Leyda Abreu
Laura Abreu-Grondin
Jonathan and Abra Adrabi
Jason Alderman and Kristy Johnson
Fabio Alfonso and Giselle Reggiani
Terry Alfonso
Mark and Amy Alhadeff
Marnie Allen
Claudio and Katia Almeida
Karl and Olga Alomar
Walter Alves and Marina Ornes-Alves
American Online Giving Foundation
Carlos Amin and Bianca Torrente
Nadine Antoine
Daniel and Joanne Aronson
Andrew and Amy Atkins
Elliot and Sharon Atkins
Aristides and Lina Atoa
Matthew Auerbach and Samantha Pelletier Auerbach
Jennifer Bachmann
Fred Baisden ‘57
Arkady Bakhtin and Ganna Sova
Bank of America Matching Gifts Program
Juan C. Barberi and Paula Montoya
Jack and Rita Barouh
Jeremy and Amanda Barouh
Javier and Jessica Barrera
Mariano Barreto and Bianca Baldini
William ‘84 and Susan Barrett
Kenneth and Yanina Barrington
Suzanne Bassett
Seth Kaplan and Lia Batkin
Chester R. Bear ‘68
Michael and Kelly Beltran
Christopher and Anna Benabu
The Benevity Community Foundation
Harry Benitah and Leslie Gelrubin Benitah
Zachary and Amber Berger
Richard and DeeDee Berkowitz
James and Serena Berra
Blackbaud, Inc.
Phillip Bock and Astrid Mariel Bock
David Bodnick
Kris and Valerie Bortnovsky
Ike ‘99 and Juliet Boruchow
Luis Bosch and Fadia Bassi
Alexis Boutin
David Bovio
Jennifer R. Bovio
Thomas Brady
Orlando and Katy Bravo
Scott Brennan
Shawn Brennan and Judy Somers
Isabella Brod ‘24
Sophia B. Brod ‘22
Steven and Claudia Brod
The Bronish-Lovett Family
Samuel E. Brown and Roberta Lagrandeur
The Brunetti Foundation
Edmund Buchser and Catherine Haddad
Matthew and Patrizia Bullock
Michael ‘83 and Kara Burnstine
David Burstyn
David Butter ‘13
Gustavo Cadena and Martin Prego
CAF America
Luis Calle and Alicia Silva
Joanne Capano
Richard and Cheryl Carne
Pablo Casas and Claudia Pulecio
Ubaldo and Catalina Castellon
Christine Chancy ‘08
Katie T. Chaplin ‘12
Paul and Karen Chaplin
Wayne and Arlene Chaplin
Caera Charles ‘25
Jerome and Tabitha Charles ‘85
Taegan Charles ‘17
Robert and Arlene Chavez
Eric Cheng
Martin and Egda Chirinos
The Citadel Foundation
Columbia Clancy ‘11 and Teddy Desloge
Conor ‘04 and Ana Clancy
Sean Clancy and Dina Cellini
Jamie and Melissa Coates
Lisette Coen
Juan Gaviria and Maria Collazo
Scott and Gislaine Collins
Marcello and Iara Coltro
Stan and Candice Comstock
Jim ‘19 and Jan Connor
Manuel Berzosa Corella and Daniela Quevedo
Ramon Cortes and Janet Del Valle - Cortes
Javier Corti and Graciela Monteagudo-Corti
Henry and Margarita Courtney
Evan Cramer and Minette Schwartz Cramer ‘06
Fernando and Kimberley Crespo
Anthony and Deborah Criscione
Jeniffer Cruz
Jimmy Cudzilo and David Sanchez
Michael and Rachel Culley
Miguel Cunha and Ana Couto
Evelyn Daes-Perez
Bharat Datwani and Adriana Soto-Rivera
Mark and Diane Davidner
Harrison C. Davies ‘09
John and Roxanne Davies
Edwin and Elizabeth De La Cadena
Lourdes de la Huerta
William Dean and Stacy Roskin
Steve Fishman and Priscilla Debarros
Alejandro Fernandez and Anneyansi Delgado
The Demir Family
Cedrik and Geraldine Denain
Brian and Tina Dennis
Katherine R. Dent
Victor Depradine and Monica Payan
David and Veronique Deroussis
Iris Destephen-Fujita
Ross and Cassandra Devor
Robert ‘01 and Rebecca Doo
Carolyn Dorn
Jason Doughty and Anat Ichak
Crystal Doyle
Scot ‘00 and Jessica Drucker
Marc Druckman
Jay Dubiner and Sarah Elliott
Adam Duke and Karina Rios
Brenda Duke
Vanessa Elias
Adam and Tamar Erdberg
Daniyel and Leonella Treto Erdberg
Salvador and Maricer Escalon
Mark ‘81 and Nancy Fabian
Elizabeth Farr
Peter and Lauren Feld
Aurelio and Berta Fernandez
Frank and Blanca Fernandez-Quevedo
Michael and Renee Finny
Robert and Rochelle Finvarb
Mark and Eloah Fisher
Gregory and Cilia Fishman
Todd and Alice Florin
David Forbes and Velda Turan
Caitlin Forsthoefel
Amy Foust
Gabriela Frenkel
Paisley Freund ‘05
Jonathan ‘75 and Karen Fryd
Rebecca L. Fulford ‘17
Jim and Shellie Fulford
Juliette Fulton
Andrew and Samantha Gallacher
Meghan Gallagher and Gaston Yelicich
The Garner Foundation, Inc.
John Michael Garner ‘49
Gerald W. Moore ‘68
James W. Moore ‘65
Kathryn Anne Paulk
Janice G. Topping
Meg G. Wright ‘77
Jackie Gerry
Ronny Gheiler and Nathalie Azoubel
Harris Gilbert and Sunny Friedman-Gilbert
Isaac Gilinski
Bill Giovannucci
Eric Glaser and Hagan Huber
Diane Goldberg
Dani Goldenberg and Ceyda Kohen Goldenberg
Eugene and Melina Goldstein
Adam and Leslie Goodman
Aaron and Rebecca Gordon
Ben and Natasa Gorham
Sophia L. Gostfrand ‘20
Igor and Priscilla Grager
Andrea Graham ‘98
Arthur and Carole Green
Craig Green ‘93
Jason and Renee Greenberg
Marilyn Greenfield
Claudia Grillo
Scott Grondin ‘06 and Gabrielle Kolevris-Roots ‘06
Marcello Gros
Samuel and Claudia Grossman
Vivian Guefen
Rolando Guzman and Cristina M. Pla-Guzman
Eid Habib and Ria Maxwell
Julia Hackney
Anthony Haderer
Jack and Karleen Halliwell
Lindsy Hanono
Scott and Sheryle Harwood
Danny and Mo Harwin
Tracy Haswell
Sebastian and Natalie Heredia
John Hernandez and Nelly Vargas
Sean and Shannon Hill
Robert Hirsch ‘99 and Natalie Bernard ‘04
Brett ‘07 and Jacquelyn Holland
Honeywell International Charity Matching
Christopher Hubbell and Marian Pond
Robert and Mariandl Hufford
Bradley and Tiffany Hurwitz
Michael Hutsko and Carroll Kelly
Ian Iglesias
Ana and Kimberly Izaguirre
Jeff and Gigi Jeffries
Caroline Jiang ‘24
Catherine Jiang ‘28
Daymond and Heather John
David and Sara Jove
Fred and Terry Jove
Daniel and Angela Julien
Arie Jusidman
Jeff R. Kaiser
Ross Kamhi and Nicole Haime Kamhi ‘07
Sang and Jung Kang
Alexander ‘00 and Rena Karakhanian
Neisen ‘69 and Ana Kasdin
Randal and Lauri Kassewitz
Ezra ‘95 and Jessica Kassin
L. Robert Kay ‘60
Richard and Ashley Kebrdle
Richard Kessler and Emilie Edlund Kessler
Ruth Kettaneh
Lev and Olga Khasis
Scott Kimball ‘99 and Jennifer Diaz
Kevin ’95 and Tricia King
Kishin Kirpalani and Liliana Luzquinos
Jacob and Roberta Kleinberger
Alex Kleyner and Diana Ulis
Brandon ’07 and Janine Kochen
Jenna Kochen ‘05
Peter Konen and Marisol Sardina
Beatrice Krasnow
Uwe and Andrea Kreuter
Steffen Kruger
Helen Kunde
Milen and Denitsa Kunev
Kemal and Kate Kuran
Pablo Rovelo Larrea and Paulina Fuentes Moad
Adam and Jamie Laufer
Seth ‘88 and Leslie LaVey
Matthew Whitman Lazenby Family
Stanley and Dorothy Whitman Family Foundation
Debbie Lee
Robert and Ivey Leidy
F. Jay and Carmen Leonard
Mauricio Levi
Aaron and Meredith Levy
Brian and Stacey Levy
Eddie Leyva ‘93
The Lindemann Family
Shana Lindsey and Michael Morgan
Nikita Lomakin and Kristina Lomakina
Rafael Londoño and Veronica Espinosa
Cary and Caryn Lubetsky
Kevin and Jill Lurie
Jared and Melissa Lustbader
Kenneth and Lindsay Lyon
Vanessa MacAdam
Adam and Jewel Malone
Charles Manning and Sydni Manning ‘07
Nicholas Marcelin
Javier Markowicz and Daiana Bajuk
Jerry ‘62 and Patricia Markowitz
Eduardo and Gabriela Marquez
Katie Marshall
Cyrus Massoumi
Bruce C. Matheson ‘61
Neil and Ellen Matlins
Aliaksandr and Yuliya Matseikovich
David ‘85 and Susan May
Ivan ’94 and Ana Mendoza
The Miami Foundation
Todd Michaels and Brandi Paul
Cristian Miguez
IIddet Milian-Prada
Nicole Miller
Stanley Miller and Michiko Otani
Livia Minetti
Ryan ‘01 and Cynthia ‘02 Mitchell
Russell Mofsky and Kristen McLean
John Montgomery ‘54
Morgan Stanley Head Quarters
Max Moussally and Deborah Leight
Frederick and Jennifer Muhlig
Spencer Multack and Kimberly M. Goldstein Multack ‘97
Ulises Muniz and Laura Rodriguez
Robert and Jacqueline Murdocco
Cam Murphy ‘06
Sridhar Murthy and Anita Johal
Mark Mutchnik and Erica Kent Mutchnik
Charlie and Dana Myers
George and Libia Elena Nahas
Darius and Egle (Eva) Nakvosas
Chester and Gracie Ng
Northwestern Mutual Foundation
Mary Novas
The Nunez Family
Brian ‘01, Stephanie ‘07, Annamarie ‘24
Stephanie Nunez ‘07 and Jason Syms
Kirk and Evelyne Olson
Pete Ormond and Dana Plagens
Jose Oronoz and Fabiola Garcia-Oronoz
Alex Orr ‘77 and Hila de Saussure
Juan Ruiz Ortega and Anna Stepanenkova
Monica Otero
Marco Pacheco ‘22
Richard and Jacquelyn Padgett
Eric and Ingrid Palmisano
Brett and Magda Palos
Phelana Pang ‘93
Andrew Papaefthemiou
Bryan and Michele Parizo
Felipe Parker and Susana Sierra
Naren and Ila Patel
James Paulk ‘90 and Jenn DiFrancesco
Jason and Katy Pelletier
Américo Pereira Filho and Roberta Pereira
Carlos M. Perez ‘11
Jarrett B. Perlow ‘97 and Joshua E. Adrian
Peter Pietrzkiewicz
Walter and Danielle Pineda
Mark and Sheryl Piper
Christopher Polite ‘02 and Jacqueline Polite
Howard Premer
Johnny Prugh and Bob Spatig
Thomas and Eileen Pulling
Christopher and Lissette Pumo
Fred and Caroline Puren
Barry and Matilda Puritz
Vekhoto and Jamie Puro
Robert ‘58 and Jaye Quimby
Marcelo Quiroga and Florencia Cirigliano
Alexander and Shana Rasnavad
Helen Rees
Timothy and Nancy Reid
Jeffrey and Julie Respler
Gary and Vanessa Ressler
Alexander Reus and Elizabete dos Santos Reus
Jean Reust
William Richards
Nicholas ‘96 and Lisa Richberg
Brian ‘08 and Brittany Riemer
Paul ‘07 and Gerry Riemer
Andrew and Barrie Jean Rinaldi
Risse Brothers School Uniforms
Melody Rivera
Pascal and Jill Robert
Thomas Robert ‘23
Jonathan Roberts ‘14
Sharon Rogow
David and Kristi Romanik
Hiram Rosas and Jessica Rivera Kim
Brett and Paige Rosen
Steve and Patti Rosen
Ronald Rosen and Fern Samek-Rosen
Fredlyn Rosenfeld
Paolo Rosellini and Eliana Maes Rosellini
Yoav and Lauren Roth
Mark Runge
Nicholas Ruskowski and Michelle Farina
Yehuda and Amy Sabach
Lara N. Saeed
Abbie Salt
John ‘08 and Ana Salt
Joshua and Rachel Samek
George and Anna Sampas
Jeremy and Natasha San
Lauri A. Sanders
Adrian Santiago
James Schainuck ‘75
Georgia P. Scharite
Eugene and Anna Schneur
Frank Schwartz and Debora Schirripa Schwartz
Stephen and Dora Schott
Amanda Schouten
Joseph and Linda Schwartz
Charles and Jennifer Sennett
Gabriel and Yulia Shaoolian
Rand and Lisa Shapiro
Ronny Sharma
Leon and Irina Shaulov
ShipBob Inc.
Mark Shmulik and Natalie Matzinger
David and Diane Shoaf
Ievgenii Shyrokan and Ganna Kharytonova
Carlos and Candida Silva
Joel and Carrie Simmonds
Donald and Rhonda Simon
Mike and Sheila Simpson
Richard Skelhorn and Maria Alice Marceniuk
Michael Slotnick
Jackie Smith
Nicholas Smith and Rachel Gosine Smith
David and Marra Smith
Sean Smith and Stephanie Denault Smith
Eric and Lee Solomon
Garrett Spear
Adam and Tere Spiegel
Caren Sredni
Daniel and Andrea Standen
Carol Stanfill
Samantha A. Stanton
Moises Starosta and Monica Chaplin Starosta ‘01
Alice Starr
Randy and Melina Starr
Danny and Hope Stern
Lawrence and Julia Steyn
Thomas and Jenny Storch
Maureen Stout
Kenneth and Nina Stowe
Alan Strauss and Natalie Brod
Sandy Strauss
Jerry and Linda Strom
Frederick and Cheryl Stromeyer
Charles and Soraya Strouse
Ryan Sudarsky and Karina Heegaard ‘04
Ochiel Swaby
Tony Talebi and Amber Taylor
Nikhil and Winnie Talwar
Jason Taylor and Maxie Ezratti
Richard and Kirsty Tester
Daniel and Cristin Thorogood
Alain Toto and Christina Toto Carlini
Alan and Debra Traster
Jeremy and Victoria Traster
Thomas Troncoso and Jessica Kleiman
Dennis Truax and Idania Diaz
Glen Turf
UBS Financial Services
Peter Valori and Kristin Jones
Tania Vargas
Davide Veglia and Marta Fasoli
Luis Velarde
Thelma Venema
Timothy and Rachael Walsh
Richard and Michelle Washington
Josh Wasserman and Sarah Maas
Randy and Charmaine Waterfield
Jay Weaver and Marta Lavandier
Jeffrey and Ashley Weinzweig
Jake A. Weiss ‘12
Rosemary Welstead
Ian Werner and Michelle Petock
Steven White and Ana Pavlovic
Carl Whitmer ‘71
Nathan Wigglesworth and Raquel Marvez
Chuck and Martha Wilcoxen
Marva Wiley
Marvin Wiley and Shirley Mckenzie
Patricio and Adriana Wills
Heath and Veranica Wolfson
Amanda Wolgast
Nick and Jocelyne Woodhouse
Gladys Xiques ‘90
Wen Cui Xu
Andy Yeager and Stacie Brentzel
Liad and Lorraine Zadok
Nicholas Zocchi and Janice Barefoot
Reynald and Danushka Zreik
IN HONOR OF
Maya B. Adrabi ‘31
Dora Adrabi ‘34
Rick and Cheryl Carne
Isabella Alderman ‘26
Jason Alderman and Kristy Johnson
Avery Atkins ‘26
Elliot and Sharon Atkins
Jack Brod ‘27
Sebastian J. Strauss ‘30
Caren Sredni
Tabitha Charles ‘85
Taegan Charles ‘17
Caera Charles ‘25
Ruth Kettaneh
Hailey Chemtov ‘28
Olivia Chemtov ‘31
Diane Goldberg and the Hyman & Ida Kirsner Family Foundation
Lucas Erdberg ‘30
Adam and Tamar Erdberg
Mia Fernandez ‘27
Sebastian Fernandez ‘24
Aurelio and Berta Fernandez
Moshe Fujita ‘28
Iris Destephen-Fujita
The Great Class of 2013
David Butter ‘13
Lennox Gordon ‘30
Neil and Ellen Matlins
Josie Harwood ‘34
Roger Harwood ‘36
Scott and Sheryle Harwood
The Incredible MCDS Faculty and Staff
Robert Hirsch ‘99 and Natalie Bernard ‘04
Danny and Hope Stern
Matthew Giovannucci ‘27
Nate Giovannucci ‘23
Marilyn Greenfield
Bill Giovannucci
Phillip Grager ‘26
Igor and Priscilla Grager
Sammy Kochen ‘36
Brandon and Janine Kochen
Jia Patel ‘38
Nikhil Patel ‘39
Naren and Ila Patel
Raphael Puritz ‘28
Royal D. Puritz ‘30
Selah J. Puritz ‘31
Barry and Matilda Puritz
Natalia Rasnavad ‘34
Alex Pool ‘24
Mark and Diane Davidner
Natalia Rasnavad ‘34
Alexander and Shana Rasnavad
Giancarlo Rodriguez ‘31
Anthony and Deborah Criscione
Summer Rogow ‘35
Sharon Rogow
Matias Rovelo-Fuentes ‘31
Diego Rovelo-Fuentes ‘32
Samual Rovelo-Fuentes
Pablo Rovelo Larrea and Paulina Fuentes Moad
Sammy the Spartan
Nicholas Marcelin
Cameron Schoch ‘26
Rosemary Welstead
Charlotte Starr ‘30
Will Starr ‘30
Alice Starr
Alex Taranga ‘32
Katie Marshall
Glen Turf
Jim and Shellie Fulford
Mark and Sheryl Piper
Chase Wolfson ‘37
Lauri A. Sanders
IN MEMORY OF
Adam Epstein
Gladys Xiques ‘90
Alyson Greenfield
Bill Giovannucci
Marilyn Greenfield
Lindsy Hanono
Ellie A. Levy ‘09
Brian and Stacey Levy
Lucy Lovell
Nicholas Smith and Rachel Gosine Smith
Marilyn Miller
Steve Fishman and Priscilla Debarros
Stephen P. Brunetti ‘85
The Brunetti Foundation and Bessemer Trust
In Memory of John Wicker and supporting
The John Wicker
Music Scholarship Endowment Fund
Terry Alfonso
Jeb Benson ‘90
Jarrett Perlow ‘97
Miami Country Day School is grateful for the generous support of our donors whose names appear in this publication. Note that this report recognizes gifts received for fiscal year July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. We are pleased to recognize the individuals listed and we thank the community for showing commitment to our Mission with their philanthropic support. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and we apologize for any errors. Please contact Sheryl Piper, Director of Stewardship and Engagement, at 305-779-7273 or pipers@miamicountryday.org, with any corrections or questions. Thank you.
THANK YOU for additional donor support in honor of our faculty, for scholarship, and for tuition assistance.
C.W. “DOC” ABELE SCHOLARSHIP
The Citadel Foundation
James and Cecily Eaton
David and Diane Shoaf
GATEWAY TRAVEL SCHOLARSHIPS
Anonymous
Jim and Shellie Fulford
Mark and Sheryl Piper
Glen Turf
INNOVATION SCHOLARSHIP
Robert and Mariandl Hufford
JOSEPH PAUL CERAMI SCHOLARSHIP
James Schainuck ‘75
FACULTY ENDOWMENT
Vanessa Elias
The Harwin Family
The Karides Family
The Lubetsky Family
The Lustbader Family
The Roth Family
The Standen Family
The Waterfield Family
The Woodhouse Family
The Yammine Family
GIFTS IN KIND
La Rocca Landscaping & Corrado La Rocca
Helix Spirits & Kristijan and Hilda Olafsson
Lawrence and Julia Steyn
MATCHING GIFT COMPANIES
Thank you to these companies/programs who contributed a portion or direct match for their employee’s charitable donations. Not sure if your company matches? Please check with your benefits department to see if you too can increase your donation.
American Online Giving Foundation
Bank of America Matching Gifts Program
The Benevity Community Foundation
Blackbaud, Inc.
CAF America
Honeywell International Charity Matching
Morgan Stanley Head Quarters
Northwestern Mutual Foundation
UBS FInancial Services
The John Wicker Music Scholarship
“We share in the enduring legacy of John Wicker, a teacher who profoundly impacted all those fortunate enough to have had him as a colleague, teacher, friend, and family man. He touched hearts and minds in our community through his music, spirit, and unwavering dedication.
We thought it only fitting that his legacy live on forever through the establishment of the John Wicker Music Scholarship at Miami Country Day School. This scholarship ensures that his passion for music and love of students will reach generations to come.”
Terry Alfonso, Director of Arts Education & Programs
Longtime
friend
& colleague
Miami Country Day School is pleased to announce the John Wicker Music Scholarship to honor and recognize the impact Mr. Wicker had on so many sudents over the years. The John Wicker Music Scholarship is an award that will be available to music students in 10th and 11th grade who qualify for the Arts Diploma Endorsement. The recipient must be an Arts Diploma Endorsement music candidate who demonstrates keen interst and talent in music. The heart of the Miami Country Day School Mission is in the education of the whole child, including the development off the aesthetic potential. We believe that developing interests and talent around music of all kinds is essential to develop one’s skills and talents in music.
