All Saints’ Community,
Every school’s history is a rich tapestry. Woven with each thread are stories that make up our identity and provide insight into who we can become. At All Saints’, our stories and history drive our vision and strategy for the future.
When I arrived as the new Head of School in 2019, I was fortunate to enter into a school strong in its mission and core values, with a committed and passionate faculty. To learn more about my new home, I had countless meetings with our whole community—students, alumni, current parents, faculty, and staff members—asking what they loved most about the school and where they felt we had room to grow.
Not surprisingly, the vast majority of answers highlighted our community. The idea of connection was deeply embedded in each response—connection to their children, other families, and our faculty and staff. Perhaps what struck me most was how our physical campus was also tightly woven with the threads of each story.
Parents reminisced about walking past our grassy amphitheater to the early childhood classrooms to drop off their five-year-old at kindergarten. Others mentioned the flagstone on the buildings and the bricks engraved with their family members’ names that make up Andersen Way. Some talked about gathering to chat with other parents at Tigers Den. Most of the community talked about the feeling of home you get when you walk on campus. It became clear that the sense of community is also deeply rooted in our physical surroundings.
In the year after those meetings, our Capital Campaign took shape in light of these stories. We developed a plan to preserve the sense of history rooted in our campus and created a vision that intertwined tradition and innovation. We found ways to preserve community-identified “historical landmarks” and build new spaces that embodied how we want children to be able to learn in the future.
As a result, we opened the doors to the Christopher Ray Milisci Academic Building with the start of the 2022–23 school year, and were overjoyed to open the Shaver Learning Commons this school year. The Shaver Learning Commons connects the old and the new, adding outdoor classroom spaces, gardens, an orchard, a swing arbor, and an additional stage and second amphitheater for our community to share new memories in.
The work of our Capital Campaign has become a physical representation of the intersection of our history and our future, with our community at the center. Student learning is at the heart of everything we do, and we are proud to create a vision for the future that holds both our deep sense of history and innovation. I look forward to embarking on this new future—and writing new stories—together.
Dr. Emma Whitman, Head of School
ISAS Accreditation Advancing our Tradition of Excellence
In 2023, All Saints’ received re-accreditation by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS)—the culmination of a multi-year process involving the entire School community.
To receive this accreditation, every ten years a School must go through an extensive self-reflective process that evaluates all aspects of the school, from adherence to ISAS standards, to programming and curriculum, to facilities and business operations. As ISAS describes it, the self-study process entails, “qualitative analysis, reflection, and identification of action for school improvement.”
As a part of the process, 30 committees contributed to an in-depth, comprehensive self-study report written over the course of several years, and the School hosted a four-day site visit for a 17-person Accreditation Team made up of administrators, faculty, and staff from our ISAS peer schools. While intensive, the process is also extremely rewarding. Our accreditation puts us in the company of other top independent schools in the United States. Within Arizona, we are one of three ISAS accredited schools, and the only PK–8 accredited school.
ISAS accredits nearly 100 schools in Arizona, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, enrolling over 50,000 students. Their mission is founded in their primary focus—“to encourage, support, and develop the highest standard for independent schools of the region and to recognize by formal accreditation those schools in which these standards are maintained.”
Maintaining our ISAS accreditation means we are operating at the highest level in all areas—remaining steadfast in our mission with a clear strategic vision with the support of our remarkable community. We were thrilled to receive glowing remarks and affirmation of our hard work in the Accreditation Team’s report following their visit and are excited to incorporate their recommendations and feedback as we refine our strategy for the future.
As a School, we wholeheartedly believe that All Saints’ is exceptional, but to have that echoed by a panel of representatives from our peer schools is astounding. In this issue of For ALL the SAINTS, we pay tribute to the eight commendations we received from the Accreditation Team.
COMMENDATIONS
We are pleased to share some of the highlights from our commendations:
FACULTY AND STAFF
STUDENTS
Students at All Saints’ Episcopal Day School are enthusiastic learners, brimming with school pride. Graduates are sought after by local high schools as much for the strength of their character as for their promise as students, artists, and athletes.
Throughout the campus, the Visiting Committee encountered faculty and staff who loved working at All Saints’ and exuded love and dedication for their students. Regardless of assigned duty or job description, the Visiting Committee noted that all adults on campus not only display a strong rapport with the students but take seriously their duty to model the All Saints’ Way and prepare their students to be positive forces for their community.
EPISCOPAL IDENTITY
The visiting committee commends All Saints’ for the role that its Episcopal identity plays in creating a campus culture that values inclusivity, faith, and service, and takes seriously the call to love God and others. The mission to educate mind, body, and soul forms the basis of the school’s commitment to the whole child.
LEARNING SPACES
Classrooms are spacious, tidy, warm, and colorful. Learning is extended through outdoor spaces, like classroom porches and the Middle School Plaza. Moreover, the Visiting Committee shares the community’s excitement about the Shaver Learning Commons, which will provide ample grounds for innovative pedagogy. What a beautiful campus—intentionally designed and meticulously maintained—to fulfill the school’s mission.
SAES ACCREDITATION
In tandem with our ISAS reaccreditation, All Saints’ also received re-accreditation through the Southwest Association of Episcopal Schools (SAES). The accreditation processes are similar—a school must submit documentation of adherence to SAES standards and a supplemental report evaluating our Episcopal Identity, School Climate, and Culture. Per SAES, “To be designated as accredited means that a school has adopted a growth mindset and voluntarily agreed to participate in ongoing evaluation and improvement of its operations, governance, and programs. The accreditation process employs both internal self-scrutiny paired with peer review which yields commendations, recommendations, and suggestions.” All Saints’ is the only dual-accredited school in Arizona.
SCHOOL LEADERSHIP
CHALLENGE FOUNDATION AND CORPORATE SCHOLARS PROGRAM
The Visiting Committee commends the School for its commitment to living its mission and vision fully by its support of the Challenge Foundation and Corporate Scholars Program. The School’s dedication to the success of these programs in providing on-campus office space, dedicated staff and resources, and the provision of wrap-around services has meant the school has been able to effectively work towards a broader, more inclusive community.
The Visiting Committee commends the School for its collegial, dedicated, accessible, and approachable leadership team. It is clear that the members are unified in their desire and efforts to move the school forward, and that they embrace a common vision for educational innovation. Their emphasis on the value of student voice and leadership is laudable and apparent in the confident and delightful student body. The excellence and effectiveness of this Leadership Team has clear and far-reaching effects on the success of the School and is openly appreciated by the School community.
SCHOOL COMMUNITY MOMENTUM
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Visiting Committee commends the Board of Trustees for understanding and exercising the discipline to maintain their role in governance, demonstrating trust in the operational and strategic leadership of Dr. Whitman.
The Visiting Committee commends the entire All Saints’ community for the incredible growth and progress made in the past four years. The arrival of the current Head of School in the 2019–20 school year was quickly followed by the pandemic, changing how everything worked. Regardless, the School successfully pivoted to deliver a strong educational environment and moved forward with a capital campaign for new spaces to help the school live into its vision. Throughout this busy period, the school successfully created a new Strategic Plan
and successfully completed a thorough, high-quality self-study and hosted an onsite visit team for ISAS and SAES re-accreditation. This is remarkable and required a dedicated effort by the entire School community.
CLASS OF 2023
Where They Attended:
Eva Allen Arizona State University, Barrett Honors College
Grace Allen Texas Christian University
Sydney Ayers .................. Arizona State University
Tyler Blaicher University of Arizona
ASEDS Class of 2019 College Selections
Bailey Butterfield ....... Northern Arizona University, Honors College
Carter Byrd Northern Arizona University
Max Cabianca ........................... Dartmouth College
Holland Carey ................ Northwestern University
Sophia Castro University of California, Irvine
Nicolas Cevallos Washington University in St. Louis
Claira Chong Dartmouth College
Christian Chun University of Pennsylvania
Sebastian Davis Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
Maryn Day Johns Hopkins
Nolan Dinan Gap Year
Layton Duncan .................... Colorado State Pueblo
Nolan Ellish University of the South
Elina Ferrigno Dickinson College
Noah Fox Southern Methodist University
Tatum Gallaspy Baylor University
Spencer Good ....................... Santa Clara University
Carlos Griffin United States Military Academy West Point
Eduardo Hernandez ........... Arizona State University
Alexa Howard University of San Diego
Ryan Hughes Gonzaga University
Miranda Jarvis Smith College
Lowell Justice Gap Year
Jonah Kaplan Grinnell College
Sophia Kleingartner Texas Christian University
Sarah Klemmer University of Michigan
Frank Lomax ............................... Lehigh University
Dillan Lowrie Northern Arizona Uninversity
Keaton MacKenzie Culinary Institute of America
Trevor McKibben California Polytechnic State University
Mohammed Mohammed Arizona State University, Barrett Honors College
Yadai Navarro Arizona State University
Alanna Nowlen University of Southern California
Scott Orders University of Oklahoma
Evelynn Papez ............................. Purdue University
Lauren Rowland Salve Regina University
Ximena Sanchez Northern Arizona University
Dakarai Schexnayder University of Arizona
Taylor Serrano University of Wisconsin, Madison
Dalton Shapiro ..... University of Southern California
Luke Snyder Northern Arizona University
Jackson Sriro University of Arizona
Jacob Sunenshine Tufts University
Cyrus Symington Harvard University
Tatianamarie Treasure ............ Gonzaga University
Nathan Tu Santa Clara University
Nickolas Valdivia Washington University in St. Louis
Zachary Wadas Texas Christian University
John Witt Paradise Valley Community College
Davis Wright Michigan State University
Michael Yuh Northeastern University
The Leo P. Dressel Faculty Excellence Award
TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE FUND USE THE QR CODE.
Cortney and Jeff Ellish, Jennifer Sprague, Leo Dressel, & Emma Whitman
Head of School Chapel & Award Presentation
Since 1963, All Saints’ has been providing an exceptional education, and the heart of that education is our incredible faculty. Our highly-qualified faculty work together with our students to help each child reach their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally. This past spring, All Saints’ formally recognized our faculty with the establishment of The Leo P. Dressel Faculty Excellence Award in recognition of the hard work and dedication required to be an outstanding master teacher.
All nominations came from peer educators at All Saints’ Episcopal Day School, and the recipient of the Award will be announced annually during the Head of School Chapel. The recipient is a master teacher that demonstrates excellence in fostering our core tenets of academic excellence, character cultivation, and community. Beyond that, it is someone that has a positive impact on all students and colleagues.
The Award is funded by the Leo P. Dressel Faculty Excellence Endowed Fund, established to recognize and honor exceptional teachers at
all levels. Leo P. Dressel was the Head of All Saints’ from 2009 to 2019, and his dedication and steadfast leadership laid the foundation for the School we know today. All Saints’ is grateful for the generosity of the Ellish Family for planting the seeds and being the foundational donor to make this award possible.
All Saints’ inaugural recipient, Mrs. Jennifer Sprague, is someone who actively lives the mission of All Saints’ through collaborative partnerships and relationships on and off campus. She touches all aspects of our community, all divisions, and demonstrates daily what it means to be of service to others within our Episcopal ethos.
Her colleagues described her as a master teacher who works tirelessly to understand and help her students grow. She is a connector, making connections across the community and across faith communities. The eighth-grade World Religion Field Trip is a signature event for our students and families and is a wonderful example of educating students—mind, body, and soul.
Mrs. Sprague has the most welcoming way of interacting with everyone; her joy and enthusiasm are infectious. She is building a legacy of excellence in teaching at All Saints’ and embodies the spirit of this Award. Please join us in congratulating the 2022–23 recipient of the Leo P. Dressel Faculty Excellence Award, Mrs. Jennifer Sprague.
FACULTY AND STAFF ANNIVERSARIES
Each May, at our annual Head of School Chapel, we recognize those members of our faculty and staff celebrating years of service. Please join us in congratulating the ten people who celebrated milestones of service at All Saints’ last year.
5 YEARS
Mr. Chad Block
Mrs. Sylvia Connolly
Mr. Todd Hebert
Mr. Adam Mini
10 YEARS
Sra. Lindsay Bray
Ms. Susie Grue ’95
Ms. Nicole Tamer
15 YEARS
Ms. Rebeca Ruelas
20 YEARS
Mrs. Kerrie Pelenytschka
35 YEARS
Ms. Carla Cotton
Getting to Know Our Rector
Rev. Dr. Perry Pauley
In March 2023, All Saints’ Episcopal Church and Day School welcomed the arrival of our fifth Rector, Rev. Dr. Perry Pauley. While Father Perry may be new to the role, he’s a familiar face within our community. He and his wife, Michelle, have two children, Elias and Alayna, at the School, and Father Perry taught fifth-grade religion at All Saints’ several years ago. Over the years, he delivered several masterful guest sermons during all-school chapel and was beloved by the faculty and students who knew him then.
Before coming to All Saints’, Father Perry served at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Phoenix. He holds a Master of Divinity and degrees from the University of Arizona and Arizona State University, including a Ph.D. in Human Communication.
We are so excited to have Father Perry as a leader within our community.
Recently, we caught up with Father Perry to get to know a little more about the man behind the pulpit:
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE ALL SAINTS' TRADITION?
My favorite All Saints’ tradition, one that I know about from both sides of the altar, must be the Easter Sunday service on the Day School campus. It’s usually big and loud and I love the atmosphere because it is equal parts loving and chaotic. The little ones are there in their fancy Easter clothes looking adorable while running around in circles and screaming, “When’s the Easter egg hunt starting?” This past Easter, I had the pleasure of talking to many of the families after the service and it was great. Some families had three or even four generations together and that’s an experience I never got to have with my own family as a kid. I love those moments and spaces that bring people together.
WHAT EXCITES OR INSPIRES YOU THE MOST ABOUT WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SCHOOL?
Hands down, it’s the kids. Sometimes I feel like the grumpy Gen-X’er that I am, and it can be easy for me to get discouraged about the way things are in the world. Being around the kids at All Saints’ feeds my soul. They are optimistic and idealistic, and rather than being discouraged about the way things are, they work toward a future where things are as they should be. Their
ideas and their energy and their passion are beautiful and inspiring.
WHICH TOPICS DO YOU GET THE MOST EXCITED TO PREPARE SERMONS OR LESSONS ON?
My approach to preaching and teaching is rooted in storytelling. I always try to have a story as the grounding element to my sermon or lesson. Sometimes it’s a story from my life, or someone I know, or a saint who inspires me. And sometimes it’s a story from the Bible. During the summer (all the way up until the last Sunday in November), we hear the stories of the great patriarchs— Abraham and all his children and grandchildren— every Sunday. These are great stories to tell in church, particularly when you’re able to read between the lines and provide some context.
FAVORITE MOTIVATIONAL QUOTE?
A poem from St. Teresa of Ávila: Christ has no body but yours, No hands, no feet on earth but yours, Yours are the eyes with which He looks Compassion on this world, Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good, Yours are the hands, with which He blesses all the world.
Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, Yours are the eyes, you are His body.
Christ has no body now but yours, No hands, no feet on earth but yours, Yours are the eyes with which he looks compassion on this world.
Christ has no body now on earth but yours.
WHAT MIGHT FAMILIES BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Here’s a smattering of random facts about me:
• I didn’t grow up in the Episcopal Church—I was raised in the Assemblies of God and stayed there until I was in my early twenties. We came to the Episcopal Church as adult seekers by choice because of the Church’s commitments to inclusion, compassion, and equality.
• I married my college sweetheart, Michelle. We celebrate our twentieth wedding anniversary this year.
• I love classic cars and you might even see me drive my ‘Cuda every once in a while.
• I worked two other career jobs before becoming a priest, first as a professor and then as operations director for a tech startup.
• I speak Spanish, not fluently, but proficiently enough to preach and lead a service in Spanish when needed.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES? DO YOU HAVE A HIDDEN TALENT?
I love food. My go-to stress-relieving hobby is probably cooking. The routine of weeknight cooking during the school year can be a little tedious, but I love cooking elaborate meals (especially for parties or holidays) and trying new recipes. When we travel, we plan our vacations around the places we want to try.
I’ve played the drums most of my life and still enjoy playing from time to time. In high school, I was drumline captain for two years. Even though I didn’t play in the marching band at the University of Arizona, I did continue to play while in college. Michelle and I met in our college campus ministry: she sang and played guitar and I played the drums. I’d say that worked out in the end.
The Leadership Team — A Visit with our Division Heads
At All Saints', we take immense pride in nurturing our students with the necessary tools to succeed in their educational journey and beyond. We instill in them a lifelong love for learning, and it is our unwavering commitment to help them achieve their goals. Our Head of Middle School, Mrs. Jennifer Miller, is a true inspiration to all of us. Her relentless pursuit of professional development showcases the power of education and the importance of being a lifelong learner.
Mrs. Miller's dedication to supporting teachers and students is exemplary. She believes that providing genuine support requires staying up-to-date with current research and classroom
Mrs. Jennifer Miller Head of Middle School
practices. Her passion for learning led her to pursue another Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and she successfully completed her program in February 2022. Her journey taught her that children learn differently, and it's essential to have a variety of teaching strategies to engage with each student. She realized that when students connect their own experiences to their education, long-term learning happens.
Recently, Mrs. Miller served on an Accreditation Team visit to an Episcopal school in New Orleans. "I was able to observe a similar school's structure, philosophy, and efforts to build a strong community of learners," shared Miller. It was a wonderful opportunity to share ideas from our success here at All Saints' and provide recommendations around curriculum, counseling, and faculty development.
Mrs. Miller's educational journey is a testament to the power of education and the importance of being a lifelong learner. With hard work, dedication, and a passion for learning, anyone can achieve their goals. With her guidance, our faculty and students are empowered to find their passions and make a difference. We are proud to have her as a part of the All Saints' community, and we are grateful for her unwavering commitment to supporting our community.
Mr. Evan Hammontree
Head
of Lower School
It’s bright and early on Monday morning, and All Saints’ Head of Lower School Evan Hammontree is ready and waiting at the Maryland gate to greet students back to All Saints’ after a weekend away. While your day may just be getting started, he’s likely been out for a run, had breakfast with his family, and checked in on a faculty member or two.
“Mornings are my favorite part of the day.” says Hammontree. “Everyone has a fresh set of eyes on the day and a smile on their face. I enjoy the time to check in with teachers before the day gets going.”
Every day is different for Mr. Hammontree, but one theme is constant—a dedicated focus on making time to build meaningful relationships with faculty, students, and parents. Community is at the heart of All Saints’, and being Head of Lower School seems to be a natural fit—so much so, it’s hard to imagine All Saints’ Lower School without him.
Last year, Mr. Hammontree started the All Saints’ Movement and Running Club as an opportunity to continue building relationships in a familiar space. Growing up, Hammontree played a lot of sports, including basketball and soccer, and running has always served as an outlet.
“Running is a way to have my own time and exercise,” says Hammontree. “I’m a goal-oriented person. Having something on the calendar like a race to plan and prepare for is motivating. Plus, running is cool because you’re competing against yourself, trying to get better than you did the last time.”
In fact, Hammontree’s true passion for running
coincided with his decision to become a leader in education. He used training for a Rim2Rim2Rim adventure in the Grand Canyon back in 2019 as a way to process the decision. Later, he channeled his passion for running into a fundraiser for his former school. Hammontree ran a total of 100 miles over three separate days between the three Hyde Park Day School campuses in Chicago to raise awareness about children with learning disabilities and funding for the specialized support the school provides.
It seems Mr. Hammontree always has something up his sleeve to bring smiles to his school community. This year, just before Christmas Break, an elf —who looked suspiciously familiar—made early morning visits to the All Saints’ campus to spread cheer and even make a little mischief.
We are thrilled to have Mr. Hammontree as a part of the All Saints’ community. His leadership has provided a welcome sense of connectedness for Lower School faculty, parents, and students. From Friday afternoon runs around campus to Evander Tannenbaum sightings, we are glad he calls All Saints’ home.
ALL SAINTS' PARENT ASSOCIATION
Parent and guardian involvement at All Saints' is truly exceptional, and we are proud of the role our volunteers play in supporting our students, faculty, and campus! Whether you give an hour per year or serve in a leadership position, we welcome and appreciate your involvement.
Thank you to everyone that helped to make the 2022–23 school year a success.
2022–23 ASPA EXECUTIVE BOARD
Joe Lijek, President
Amanda Tubesing, Vice President
Grace Neal, Treasurer
Courtney Konderik, Treasurer
Kim King, Assistant Treasurer
Kelly Farrell, Secretary
TIGER DADS CHAIRS
Tyler Estes, Chair
Brian Cornwell, Golf Tournament Co-Chair
Marty Teevan, Golf Tournament Co-Chair
Jon Moreno, Hospitality Co-Chair
Rob Vallarino, Hospitality Co-Chair
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
Amy Scott
HOSPITALITY COORDINATOR
Kristin Wrobel
BOOK EXCHANGE
Tracy Knowlton
BOOK FAIR
Christina Covault
Kandis Palmer
GRADE LEVEL COORDINATOR
Alex McConnell
Ursula Smalley
HARVEST FAIR
Kelly Farrell
Candace Bianco
LITTLE TIGERS TRUNK SHOW
Kim Barr
Geri Farr
PIZZA THURSDAY
Ryan Smith
Lacy Francisco
Heather Hendon ’96
SPECIAL PERSONS DAY
Lisa Barnes
Candice Hogan
SPRING FLING 2024
Leslie Duffy
Jordan McBride
TEACHER APPRECIATION
WEEK
Maureen Feeney ’02
Katie Freudenberg
TIGER DAUGHTER DANCE
Krystina Downey
Ali LeClair ’97
TIGER TRIVIA
Samantha Underwood
Teddy Underwood
TIGERS DEN
Melisa Konderik
Brian Konderik
TIGERS ON THE TOWN
Gina Koo
UNIFORM EXCHANGE
Natalie Rinehart
Brooke Wilson
ZOOLIGHTS
Paula Alleman ’90
Kristin Fleming
Kelly Ellison
TIGER DADS GOLF TOURNAMENT '23
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Alliance Residential Company
GOLD SPONSORS
ATI Restoration
Lanter Delivery Services
SILVER SPONSORS
Baird—The Duffy Group
Ellison Machinery
My Kidz Dentist O'Steen & Harrison
Scottsdale Hangar One Snell & Wilmer
GOLF FLAG SPONSORS
Baird—The Duffy Group
SAFE RIDE HOME & BEVERAGE CART SPONSOR
Crescent Crown Distributing
COCKTAIL RECEPTION
SPONSOR
Success Commercial Real Estate
LUNCH SPONSOR
Bay Equity Home Loans
PUTTING CONTEST
SPONSOR
Amalyn Consulting
CONTEST HOLE SPONSORS
Brown & Brown Insurance
Camelback Toyota
Culver's Frozen Custard
Phoenix Comprehensive Dentistry
PRINT SPONSOR
BPGraphics
RAFFLE & CONTEST HOLE
PRIZE DONORS
Putting World
Biltmore Golf Club
All Saints’ Parent Association
Tiger Dads
Cruise America RV
The Velo Bike Shop
Shannon and Jason Rains
Jessie and Nader Sanai
Marty Teevan
The Thunderbirds Charities
ASPA BY
THE NUMBERS
All parents and guardians are members of ASPA. We encourage everyone to become involved in ASPA through leadership, volunteering, or attending events. Whether you have one hour, one day, or one week to give, it is through volunteerism and giving back that we are able to make joyous connections to support our community.
by the numbers: $ IMPACT OF GIVING
94,687
gift to the School RAISED BY YOU
ASPA & TIGER DADS
during the 2022–23 school year
Your support funded the purchase of a brand new Chevy Express van and the refurbishment of the old van.
The Class of 2023 took their class trip to San Francisco thanks to your support!
30,628
134
Days Tigers Den was open and run by ASPA volunteers.
PIZZA SLICES
An All Saints' Favorite, Pizza Thursday is run entirely by ASPA. Proceeds help to pay for the eighth-grade trip.
1,200+
PANCAKES
The Tiger Dads flipped and served A LOT of pancakes!
x3,000
1,059
BOOKS
Following the 2023 Book Exchange, any books that were not purchased were donated to a local elementary school.
COMMUNITY-BUILDING
During the 2022–23 school year, ASPA supported over 30 community events and programs. ASPA supports school-identified projects, student experiences, and classroom enhancements through community-building events. ASPA is responsible for events from the Pancake Breakfasts and Tiger Trivia to the Golf Tournament, the Phoenix Suns Night, The Little Tigers Trunk Show, and so much more!
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
For the Board of any independent school to be effective, we must first understand the essence of our school and why it exists, its primary purpose, and whom it serves. As the All Saints’ Board of Trustees and as a school, we pride ourselves on who we are—a school committed to community, academic excellence, and character cultivation. However, we understand that our identity goes beyond just words. We must live these words daily through our actions as individuals, an institution, and a community.
The current All Saints’ Board of Trustees consists of 24 members, our Rector, and our Head of School. Trustee membership is made up of alumni, alumni parents, current parents, Church Vestry members, and other community members. It is our responsibility to ensure that All Saints’ is safeguarded not only for our current students but also for those who will attend in the future. Thus, we lead by focusing on long-range strategy.
The All Saints’ Board carries out many of its responsibilities through committees that make recommendations for action by the entire Board. When needed, special Task Forces may be assembled to advise the Head of School as well as the Board. Our recent self-study process and re-accreditation by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) has highlighted that we are, in fact, unifying our commitments with our actions.
In the coming year, we will begin work on our next Strategic Plan that will serve as our road map for the future. We know that it is only through intentional planning and hard work that we can continue our pursuit of excellence while holding fast to the identity and traditions that are uniquely All Saints’.
In the meantime, we are thrilled to receive such glowing commendations from the Visiting Committee, and we are proud to share them with you in this issue of For ALL the SAINTS.
Brian Rhodes Chair, Board of Trustees
FY22 REVENUE RESOURCES
FY22 AREAS OF IMPACT
As you read this magazine, I hope you gain a sense of the true impact of your giving—the intangible effects of your generosity that extend to every student and every corner of campus. Our students thrive because of you
CURRENT BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Julie Alpert
Rick Carpinelli
Dr. Sachin Desai
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Brian Rhodes, Chair
Jennifer Karas, Vice Chair
Julia Ponce, Treasurer
Paula Petrowski , Secretary
Will Evans, Vestry Representative
Karen Feltz ’04
Ann Halaby
Cherilyn Gain Leet ’99, Alumni Representative
David Lenhardt
Alexandra McConnell
James “Bubba” Moffett
Dr. Ana Moran
Jon O’Steen ’94
Gina Palmisano
Dr. Karen Papez
Adele Ponce
Jason Pritchett
Irene Tseng, Vestry Representative
Amanda Tubesing, ASPA Representative
Greg Vanderburgh
Rev. Dr. Perry Pauley, Rector
Dr. Emma Whitman, Head of School
A Campus Built on our History & Designed for our Future
Because of you, we are leaders, innovators, problem-solvers, creative, curious, and inspired. Because of you, our students learn anywhere and everywhere—from state-of-the-art classrooms to flexible outdoor learning spaces.
It’s hard to imagine that a little over a decade ago our campus was just over half the size it is now. Built in the 1960s and later expanded in the 1980s, the 26,000 square foot All Saints’ campus served as the home for academic excellence, character cultivation, and community for more than 50 years.
Within that time, leaders at the School were able to take advantage of a rare opportunity to buy land adjacent to the north side of the campus in hopes of eventually expanding the footprint of our school. The purchase allowed for the immediate development of new athletic
fields, additional parking, a new walkway called “All Saints’ Way,” and additional space for future buildings.
In 2017, we launched the most ambitious Capital Campaign in All Saints’ history. The goal has always been to elevate our learning spaces and enhance our community. Over five years, the project evolved, expenses increased, and our final fundraising target was raised. However, through the support of our incredible community, the Campaign successfully reached the $14 million goal to bring our vision to reality—far and away the largest campaign and most extensive campus improvement project in All Saints’ 60-year history.
Because of you, we now truly have a campus built on our history and designed for our future. In 2022, we were overjoyed to open the doors to the Christopher Ray Milisci Academic Building, followed by the Shaver Learning Commons in the fall of 2023. As you walk
THANK YOU
through each space, you’ll notice special nods to our past and boundless opportunities for our future. There is no doubt that the effect of the Campaign will profoundly impact students for generations to come.
While we have met our goal and completed the work on this project, the story is just beginning. Our new facilities will allow us to make new memories, while continuing our traditions and carrying our history forward. Through the success of this campaign, we are better equipped to prepare the leaders of the future.
Thank you for investing in our vision. Your support makes everything we do possible.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE. WE ARE EXCITED TO CELEBRATE THE SUPPORT OF OUR GENEROUS ALL SAINTS' COMMUNITY.
Milisci in Action: Designed for Future-oriented Thinking
We were thrilled to open the doors to the brand new Christopher Ray Milisci Academic Building with the beginning of the 2022–23 school year.
As we planned this wonderful new space, we placed an intentional focus on future-oriented thinking. Inspiring our children to think differently and take intellectual risks requires spaces that foster imagination, creative thinking, collaboration, flexibility, and adaptability. Academic excellence in education must merge a challenging academic curriculum, while equipping students with tools for the future.
We placed the process of inquiry at the center of our design. In the Milisci Building, children can brainstorm ideas in their new classrooms, research them in the Lenhardt Library, and watch them come to life in the Ward DREAMlabs, classroom terraces, and the Middle School Plaza.
Physical space is at the center of our vision for innovation because it creates so many options for the future. We are charged with excitement about the future possibilities this space holds. The following are just a few examples of the features we’ve already put to great use in the new building.
ADMINISTRATIVE CENTER
For years, our administration and staff have worked in offices spread across many locations on campus, making collaboration between departments a challenge at times. In the Christopher Ray Milisci Academic Building, we now have an Administrative Center that houses our Admissions, Advancement, Marketing and Communications departments and the Head of School’s office. With our new configuration, we are able to work together more efficiently and share a deeper understanding of our School Community and vision for the future.
TECHNOLOGY
Each of the 26 new classrooms features a BenQ board. These interactive, flat-panel displays allow for a more student-centered classroom. Up to nine devices can be mirrored on the display at once—allowing students to learn from each other, give meaningful feedback, and gain a greater understanding that there is more than one way to solve a problem. The boards are extremely easy to use, allowing teachers to have more time to focus on teaching and learning without having to worry about connectivity or troubleshooting issues.
MEETING AND COLLABORATIVE SPACES
Designed with collaboration in mind, the Milisci building also offers many new spaces for students, faculty, and staff to meet and collaborate. In middle school, students and faculty now have Social Studies and English collaboration rooms, along with several hallway nooks. Other conference areas are also spread throughout the new space. The new Milisci Meeting Room on the second floor is the perfect space for monthly Board meetings and hosted the 17-person Accreditation Team during their visit in March. This room is also used regularly for student, parent, and faculty team meetings.
FURNITURE
With the intention that furniture can be used as a tool in learning, we selected pieces that would work for whole-class instruction, create collaborative zones, allow for small group work, provide areas for individual instruction, and help students to think and focus. The majority of our new furniture can be shifted to change learning spaces and provide flexibility for different types of instruction.
THE CHRISTOPHER RAY MILISCI BUILDING
Every space in the Christopher Ray Milisci Building has been purposefully designed to provide flexibility for our teachers to integrate new approaches to learning while also using the proven methods that have firmly established our legacy of excellence.
CLASSROOMS
Each of the 26 new classrooms is spacious, bright, and airy, allowing students and teachers to enjoy lots of natural light and space for exploration. On the lower level of the east side of the building, each lower school classroom has an attached outdoor terrace, providing even more options for learning and collaboration.
MIDDLE SCHOOL PLAZA
Situated on the second floor of the building, the Middle School Plaza holds 3,500 square feet of collaborative outdoor space designed with middle school students in mind. The unique space allows students to assemble in small and large group settings, on benches and around large tables, under the shade of expansive canopies.
DREAMLABS
Spanning nearly 4,000 square feet combined, the Lower School and Middle School Ward DREAMlabs have ample room to put ideas into action. In middle school, more space allows for a full robotics track, and garage doors allow students to use additional larger wood shop equipment on the connected terrace.
In Lower School, more space means more room for students to code robots and complete projects over time. The new Lower School DREAMlab features a separate “movie studio” for green screen videos and Tiger Nation News, and a “create” space with cardboard and supplies, in addition to instructional space in the front of the room with whiteboard tables. Students can use the outdoor terrace to test out catapult prototypes, navigate robots, and more. The DREAMlabs are connected and provide easy access to the Shaver Learning Commons.
LIBRARY
Organically shaped stacks and cozy reading nooks throughout the Lenhardt Library would make anyone want to curl up with a good book. Made up of nearly 3,000 square feet of space including an early childhood reading area, flexible seating, and independent and collaborative work spaces, the Lenhardt Library is the epicenter of where students develop their research skills and advance their appreciation for literature. Modular furniture also allows us to transform the space into a meeting area for author visits, presentations, and other gatherings.
A Look at the New Shaver Learning Commons
We are thrilled to see this unique space come to life and experience the revolutionary impact it will make on education, not just at All Saints’, but on a national level.
With the start of school this August, we were thrilled to open the Shaver Learning Commons: 45,000 square feet of flexible, outdoor learning space connecting the new and existing parts of campus. Like placing the final piece of a jigsaw puzzle, opening the Shaver Learning Commons completed more than a decade of planning and vision for a campus built on our history and designed for our future.
Designed to elevate our tradition of academic excellence, and reinforce our sense of community, the Shaver Learning Commons holds a wealth of features that provide opportunities to explore new methods for teaching and learning and also adds new spaces for our community to gather and create lasting memories.
A. As you enter the Shaver Learning Commons through the breezeway of the Milisci Building, you are instantly greeted with large green spaces and a beautiful mature ficus tree in a planter adorned with a quote from Drs. James O. and Beverly B. Shaver: “With curiosity comes a life of learning and adventure.” This entire space has been made possible by a transformational gift from the Shaver Family. Longtime church members, their son, Jos Shaver, graduated from All Saints’ in 1978.
A.
B. The first of the two new performance spaces features a large, shaded stage equipped with misters.
D. The old locker pavilion has been beautifully renovated into the Learning Pavilion and now serves as a large, shaded gathering area with tables for small group or whole class work.
C. Mature trees throughout the space were carefully protected in place, including our historic “wisdom tree” just north of the band room. The preservation of existing trees helps seamlessly connect the existing and new spaces.
C.
B.
D.
F. In the Discovery Area, students learn more about Earth’s orbit and rotation within the solar system, as well as gravity and other forces of nature. The space features a human sundial, planets placed to scale throughout the space, and a gravity runnel.
E. Shade canopies over the outdoor classrooms and swing arbor feature an intricately cut pattern that casts shadows resembling native foliage. Each panel represents trees native to the area and were carefully selected to blend in with our green campus. The butterfly shaped form of the canopy, 45 degree cut steel supports, and clean, simple construction creates a light and airy feel, while also providing necessary shade.
G. Under the canopy, colorful dry erase boards provide an area for instruction.
E.
F.
G.
H. The orchard and surrounding areas house several species of native fruit and flowering trees, with an adjacent pollinator garden and raised planting beds for classes to learn more about the plant life cycle and our ecosystem through hands-on experiences. A rain chain and water collection cistern help students see sustainability in action.
I. The swing arbor features four swings with a shaded canopy equipped with misters. The space is designed to provide an area to read, reflect, and sit with friends.
J. An additional mini-amphitheater provides a more intimate performance area and teaching area, perfect for our youngest students or small class presentations. The area is flanked by a geology wall, featuring a cross-section model of sedimentary layers of earth modeled after the Grand Canyon.
K. The Outdoor Classroom North is outfitted with whiteboards and additional shelving for teaching and learning.
H.
I.
J.
K.
The Challenge Foundation — The All Saints' Mission in Action
In 2023, All Saints’ and the Challenge Foundation celebrated a significant milestone—10 years of partnership in providing access to stellar educational opportunities for underserved students in the Valley.
From six scholars entering middle school in 2013, the partnership has flourished over the last decade. Currently, The Challenge Foundation supports 27 students at All Saints’, 23 students at local private high schools, and 10 students in colleges and universities across the country. As The Challenge Foundation’s first—and only— middle school partner in Arizona, the 39 students in high school and college are proud All Saints’ alumni.
At All Saints’, we see inclusivity and belonging as vital components of our mission and the cornerstone of an Episcopal education. During remarks at a celebratory banquet, Dan Waage, Director of Enrollment Management, reflected on the partnership.
“One thing I was very sure about from the start was this was the right thing to do at All Saints’,” Waage said. “A foundational tenet of the Episcopal ethos is to do good, and this was definitely good. It wasn’t just a part of our mission, but a reflection of it.”
In fall 2022, we were excited to welcome The Challenge Foundation to a more centralized
location on campus, taking over the former front office and administration building. This move has allowed further integration of the program with the School community and provided opportunities for additional growth. The Challenge Foundation’s mission is to break the cycle of poverty through educational opportunities. Challenge Foundation Scholars complete a rigorous scholarship application process before going through the typical admissions process to All Saints’. Once accepted, Scholars receive robust support throughout their time at All Saints’, during high school, and through their college experience. Resources extend beyond tuition, including mentorship and much more.
“In the last ten years, I have witnessed the incredible support of members of our School community and the local community surrounding All Saints’,” Waage said. “I have grown to understand the incredible value this partnership brings to our School. The fabric of our School community is richer, our mission is more fulfilled, and we are all better because of it.”
All Saints’ partnership with the Challenge Foundation and our Corporate Scholars Program help us carry out our mission and our vision for the future. We are proud that these two programs, paired with our Indexed Tuition Program, serve one in four students at our School .
“One of the many important things I have learned over time is that my role as admissions officer is much less about being a gatekeeper than it is about rolling out a welcome mat,” Waage said. “I will forever hold as one of my proudest moments the day that welcome mat was rolled out at the gate of All Saints’ Episcopal Day school for the first six Challenge Foundation scholars and their families.
Hear from one member of our first class of Challenge Foundation scholars on how Challenge & All Saints' changed his life.
WIDENING THE GATE: CORPORATE SCHOLAR PROGRAM AND INDEXED TUITION
The All Saints’ Corporate Scholar Program is supported through the Arizona Corporate Tax Credit Program. This Program helps qualifying students receive tuition and support services through the Admissions Office. The Corporate Scholars Program extends beyond the students’ years at All Saints’ through their high school education. Currently, 22 students in kindergarten through twelfth grade are benefiting from this program.
All Saints’ also partners with the Arizona Episcopal Schools Foundation (AESF), a School Tuition Organization, to support our Indexed Tuition Program. This program provides direct and essential funding to our students who qualify for financial assistance during their years at All Saints’.
CLASS NOTES
Send us your notes! We love hearing from our alumni. Please send updates to alumni@allsaints.org.
’88 Chen+Suchart Studio: Tommy Suchart and his wife, and Patricia Szu-Ping Chen Suchart, designed the new wine tasting room at Los Milics Vineyards in Elgin, AZ
Los Milics Vineyards enlisted the renowned Chen + Suchart Studio architectural firm to design these facilities in harmony with the beautiful landscape framed by the Mustangs and the iconic Biscuit.
’91 Congratulations to Phoebe Fox on her new children’s book "Julian Blooms."
Phoebe Fox is the author of 8 books for young children, including the award-winning bilingual book "Babies Nurse/ Asì se alimentan los bebès." Her book “Up Up Up” won the First Edition Project Children’s Book Contest in 2015.
’94 Congratulations to Jon O’Steen on being recognized by Super Lawyers as one of the top 50 attorneys in Arizona.
’97 Ashley Tupper joined the Greater Phoenix Economic Council as the Senior Vice President of External Relations.
Ashley is a proud All Saints' tiger, Xavier gator, University of Arizona wildcat, and as a native Phoenician, she is excited to call Arizona home again after her time in New York and California. As the Senior Vice President of External Relations for the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), Ashley spearheads investor relations for the organization by leading fundraising efforts, engagement initiatives and event programming, while overseeing a team of extremely talented professionals.
Send us your notes! We love hearing from our alumni. Please send updates to alumni@allsaints.org.
Jennifer Hipp Associate Director of Development and Stewardship
’19 Congratulations to Sarah Klemmer , recipient of the 2023 NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing, National Honorable Mention Awards. She was one of the three students from Xavier to receive this award out of 400 students selected nationwide for technological achievements.
Sarah attends the Honors Program at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Sarah plans to study cognitive science with a focus on computation and cognition. Her goal is to earn a Ph.D. studying applications of neuroscience to enhance artificial intelligence.
Sarah also performed for her second year with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Dance Team at Edinburgh Castle. This prestigious team is made up of 50 international dancers selected through auditions every year. Sarah has been doing Scottish Highland dance for 10 years and has qualified for the national championship 3 times, winning 5th place in the country for her age group in 2022. In her years of dancing, she has performed in 5 military tattoos in the US, Canada, and Scotland. Sarah was recently awarded the Harry Farrar IV Memorial Scholarship by ScotDance USA this year for academic achievement and dance contributions.
’19 Congratulations to Eva Allen who has joined the soccer team at Arizona State University!
’19 Congratulations to Holland Carey who has joined the soccer team at Northwestern University!
’20 Congratulations, Abby Gliss and Olivia Hizme for raising over $300,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society!
’20 Congratulations, Abby Pearson recipient of the District 4 Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year Award.
’20 Congratulations to Cate Dunn recipient of the Outstanding Phoenix Youth Leader of the Year Award for Council District 6.
CLASS NOTES
FUTURE TIGERS
’91 Joe White and wife Shantae welcomed daughter Gianna Noelle White August 18, 2023.
’94 Sophie Clarke and husband Gavin Megnauth welcome daughter, Zoe Xandra Clarke on July 27, 2023.
’99 Cherilyn Gain Leet and husband Christopher Leet welcomed daughter Samantha Gain Leet on June 13, 2023.
AROUND CAMPUS
6300 North Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85012
602.274.4866
info@allsaints.org allsaints.org
