Guide To &ENGAGEMENT
Meet The Team
Kristie Kender
Parent Engagement and Events Manager
Cara Acker
Development Associate
Jen Staudenbaur
Executive Director of Advancement
Sarah Abuel-Saud
Director of Annual and Leadership Giving
Virtue Byrd Director of Constituent Engagement and Advancement Programs
Dear St. Mary’s Community,
Welcome to a new school year! This one is especially meaningful as it marks a historic moment in our journey together. I am honored to serve as Executive Director of Advancement and to partner with such a vibrant, missiondriven community.
This fall we celebrate the opening of the Sillers Center. Our new Design Center, Early Education spaces, and community gathering areas will shape the future of St. Mary’s for generations. This building tells the story of a community that dreamed boldly, gave generously, and worked together to make it real.
This was the largest construction project in our school’s history. It reflects the spirit of our founder, Father Ernest D. Sillers, who once said, “Mine is not a tiny vision.” We love this phrase so much that we etched it into our wedding cake tribute by the grand staircase leading up to the Design Center. His words guide the work we do every day, encouraging us to lead with courage, compassion, and innovation.
This year I invite you to enjoy these beautiful spaces, learn about the work happening inside, and get involved. This Guide to Engagement and
Philanthropy was created to help every family find meaningful ways to be part of life at St. Mary’s. Whether you volunteer, attend events, support philanthropic initiatives, or cheer from the sidelines, you are part of our shared story.
The Advancement Team brings together Admissions, Parent Engagement, and Development because every stage of the family journey matters, from your first tour to your child’s final year in Grade 8. This year you will see new opportunities to connect, give back, and deepen your relationship with the school.
Thank you for the trust you place in us and for the many ways you make this community so special. We are excited for all that is ahead.
With a grateful heart,
Jen Staudenbaur
Executive Director of Advancement
P.S. Please reach out to me or anyone on our team if you would like to chat further. We are here to partner with you every step of the way.
COMMUNITY : Parent Engagement And
Fellowship
One of St. Mary’s greatest strengths is the strong sense of community shared among our students, families, faculty, and staff. We’re proud to be an inclusive campus that values and encourages family participation.
The Parent Teacher Fellowship (PTF) is our parent community, and it exists to help build connections and make our school stronger through events, volunteer opportunities, and shared experiences on campus. Whether you help with a classroom party, join a planning team, or simply show up to cheer at a school event, you are part of the PTF—and your presence makes a difference.
The PTF Board is a group of approximately 20 parent volunteers who take on leadership roles within the PTF. This team helps plan and coordinate activities that enrich the educational, cultural, spiritual, and social life of our school.
There’s a place for everyone in the PTF, and we invite you to get involved in whatever way works best for you and your family.
2025-2026
KEY COMMUNITY EVENTS
In addition to the many school related events throughout the year, our PTF Board and the St. Mary’s Development Department are committed to providing events that foster community, engage our families, and demonstrate appreciation in support of our school.
Founder’s Day
Friday, Oct. 3 - St. Mary’s School
Our annual Founder’s Day celebrates the legacy of our founder, Father Sillers, and honors the values on which St. Mary’s was built. This special afternoon brings our entire community together for family fun, service opportunities, and joyful fellowship. With activities for all ages, Founder’s Day is a time to celebrate who we are as a school while making lasting memories together.
St. Mary’s Golf Classic
Monday, Nov. 10 - Aliso Viejo Country Club
Our annual Golf Classic is a beloved tradition that brings the Falcon community together for a fun and meaningful day on the course in support of St. Mary’s. As one of our key fundraising events, the Golf Classic raises important funds for programs that benefit our students and school. All skill levels are welcome. Even if you don’t play golf, there are plenty of ways to take part. From cheering on players to volunteering or joining us for the post-round festivities, there is something for everyone.
Grandparents and Special Friends Day
Friday, Nov. 21 - St. Mary’s School
A special day for our St. Mary’s Grandparents to spend time on campus with their grandchildren. Grandparents are invited onto campus to see our programs in action, hear a special presentation and visit their student’s classrooms. For those students without a grandparent to invite, we encourage them to invite a relative or friend.
Community Candy Canes
Tuesday, Dec. 9 - St. Mary’s School
Each December, St. Mary’s students take part in a meaningful service learning project by selecting a cause or organization to support during the holiday season. Guided by their teachers, students learn about local needs and work together to collect donations that make a real difference in the community. The PTF Board supports this effort by helping coordinate logistics, collecting gifts, and organizing volunteer support. It’s a wonderful way for our entire school to come together in the spirit of generosity and compassion.
Winter Market
Thursday, Dec. 11 - St. Mary’s School
A celebration of our IB roots and shared cultures during the Christmas season. This festive evening brings our community together to honor the many cultures represented at St. Mary’s. Stroll through a winter landscape filled with student carolers, enjoy stage performances, savor seasonal treats, and explore a marketplace featuring student-created works and local artisan goods.
*St. Mary’s Community Social
Friday, Jan. 30 - Offsite
This January, we’re taking the fun off campus! Join fellow St. Mary’s families for a casual evening of connection and community at a local venue— think roller skating, bowling, or rock climbing. The exact location is still being finalized, but you can count on a lively, family-friendly atmosphere and a great chance to connect with others in our Falcon community. Stay tuned for details!
St. Mary’s Benefit Dinner + Gala
Saturday, March 28
- Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach
Our annual Benefit Dinner + Gala is a cornerstone fundraising event that brings together over 300 guests in support of St. Mary’s. Each year, this special evening raises more than $300,000 for key programs and initiatives that enhance our students’ experience. It’s a night to celebrate our vibrant community, enjoy dinner and entertainment, and make a meaningful impact. We encourage all families to attend and be part of this unforgettable event in support of our school.
*St. Mary’s Family Dance + Game Night
Saturday, April 25 - St. Mary’s School
This new event brings the entire St. Mary’s community together for an evening of fun, movement, and connection! Open to all students and their families, the night will feature a family-friendly dance floor, interactive games, and activities for all ages. Whether you’re dancing, playing, or just enjoying the energy, it’s a night to make joyful memories together.
*This year, the St. Mary’s Community Social (offsite) and Family Dance + Game Night will take the place of the traditional Father-Daughter Dance and Mother-Son Game Night. We took our community’s feedback to heart, and this shift reflects the voices of many St. Mary’s families. By offering two exciting and inclusive events, one hosted on campus and the other offsite, we are creating meaningful opportunities for all families to connect, celebrate, and make lasting memories together. Looking ahead, we plan to explore a year-over-year rotation that honors cherished traditions while continuing to ensure every member of our community feels seen, welcomed, and valued.
NEW TO ST. MARY’S? JOIN US AT OUR
NEW FAMILY ROUNDTABLES
We warmly welcome all new parents to connect, ask questions, and learn more about life at St. Mary’s. Our New Family Roundtables are casual, conversation-based gatherings designed to help you meet other parents, hear from school leaders, and discover ways to get involved in our community. Whether you’re curious about school traditions, volunteering, or simply navigating your first year, these roundtables are the perfect place to start. We can’t wait to see you there!
New Family Roundtables - IB HUB
EARLY EDUCATION PARENTS
Monday, Sept. 22 | 8:30–10am
LOWER SCHOOL PARENTS
Wednesday, Sept. 24 | 8:30–10am
MIDDLE SCHOOL PARENTS
Friday, Sept. 26 | 8:30–10am
ALL GRADES
Tuesday, Sept. 30 | 6–7:30pm
VOLUNTEERING AT ST. MARY’S
We understand that every family’s schedule is different, which is why we offer a variety of ways to get involved. Whether you have an hour each week or just a few days throughout the year, there is always a way to contribute that fits your availability. Volunteer opportunities are shared regularly through the Falcon Connect Parent Portal, the Falcon Flyer, and Room Parent communications.
Here are some fun and meaningful ways to get involved:
St. Mary’s Board Committees
Bring your professional skills to school initiatives that help support and shape the future of St. Mary’s.
Room Parent and Class Parties
Work closely with teachers to help coordinate class events and keep families informed and engaged.
St. Mary’s Fund Committee
Support our school’s annual giving campaign by helping with outreach, stewardship, and community engagement.
Golf and Gala Committees
Assist in planning two of our largest events, helping with everything from sponsorships to décor and logistics.
Care and Compassion Committee
Be part of a group that reaches out with kindness and care to support families during times of need.
Serving Lunch
Help serve meals and see students’ smiling faces during their lunch break.
Scan the QR Code to visit the PTF Portal for Volunteer Sign-Ups
For more information on how to get involved, please contact: Kristie Kender
Parent Engagement & Events Manager (949) 448-9027 x328 kristie.kender@smaa.org
Track Meet
Help with set-up, timing, cheering, and managing stations at this energetic and exciting event.
Musical
Support our school production by helping backstage, managing costumes, or assisting with hospitality.
Jog-A-Thon
Assist with event coordination, water stations, and cheering on students as they run for a great cause.
Book Fair
Help create a fun shopping experience by assisting students, organizing books, and working the register.
Lower School Art
Lend a hand by prepping supplies, helping students, and keeping things running smoothly.
And many more New volunteer opportunities arise throughout the year, offering something for everyone.
PHILANTHROPY
Since 1994 the St. Mary’s community has shown remarkable generosity and support. Our wonderful campus and the enriching programs we have today are a testament to the philanthropic spirit of the families who preceded us.
Annual contributions to the St. Mary’s Fund play a vital role in backing our strategic plan and enabling us to expand the programs that make St. Mary’s truly exceptional. For those who are interested in making an even greater impact,
ST. MARY’S FUND
we offer opportunities to support special initiatives like the Scholar Program and the Design The Future capital campaign, which aim to secure a strong and promising future for the next generation of Falcons.
Your continued support directly enhances the experiences of every student at St. Mary’s. Let’s work together to create a brighter tomorrow and make a meaningful difference in the lives of our beloved students.
SCHOLAR PROGRAM
DESIGN THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
The St. Mary’s Fund is an important philanthropic priority for the school. Contributions to this Fund support our strategic plan, fueling our ability to advance our curriculum, provide professional development opportunities and introduce new experiences throughout our school.
At St. Mary’s School, we are unwavering in our commitment to providing an exceptional education that equips our students with the tools to make a positive impact in the world. To sustain and enhance this mission, we rely on the annual support of the St. Mary’s Fund. Each year, your contributions empower us to say YES to innovative ideas and programs, and enable us to attract and retain exemplary faculty who inspire our students every day. The funds raised are used within the year they are given, ensuring that your generosity has an immediate and meaningful impact on our school community.
The Impact: The St. Mary’s Fund’s contributions are used immediately to provide impact and support towards our Strategic Pillars including:
• A TRANSFORMATIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCE FOR OUR STUDENTS.
• AN INNOVATIVE CAMPUS THAT IS FLEXIBLE, SAFE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE.
• A BROAD EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM THAT DEVELOPS THE WHOLE CHILD.
• A PREMIERE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM.
• EXCEPTIONAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR OUR FACULTY AND STAFF.
• A CONTINUED SENSE OF COMMUNITY AMONG STUDENTS, FAMILIES, FACULTY, STAFF & BEYOND.
The St. Mary’s Fund’s contributions are used immediately to provide impact where it is needed most. We depend on contributions to the Fund from Trustees, parents, grandparents, parents of alumni, faculty and staff every year, and we seek 100% participation from our families in partnership with us to provide an exceptional educational experience for our students. How much each family contributes is a personal decision, and our hope is that every family is able to be as generous as possible. Gifts range from under $1,000 to over $25,000, and every gift, of any size, has a direct impact on every single St. Mary’s School student.
At St. Mary’s, our commitment to cultivating world-sized hearts and world-class minds is embodied through the St. Mary’s Scholar Program. This program provides full-tuition and comprehensive scholarships for six middle school students who might not otherwise have access to our unique learning environment. We believe that a key tenet of a St. Mary’s education is fostering a strong, inclusive community, and through the Scholar Program, we strive to attract students from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds. By doing so, we create a richer, more vibrant school environment where all students benefit from the perspectives and experiences of their peers.
Each year, we collaborate with the local Boys and Girls Club to identify and select students who embody the values of St. Mary’s and are poised to thrive within our community. This partnership extends beyond scholarship selection, enabling us to offer Boys and Girls Club students additional opportunities such as art and PE classes, sports camps, and essential school supplies, further enriching their educational experience and strengthening our community ties.
Donations to the St. Mary’s Scholar Program are vital to its continued success. Your contributions enable us to provide these life-changing scholarships and ensure that our scholars have access to the full spectrum of opportunities at St. Mary’s, from transportation and course materials to athletic programs and international field studies. By supporting the Scholar Program, you help us create a more inclusive and diverse school community, where every student has the chance to thrive. Together, we can make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of our students and our community.
ST. MARY’S SCHOLAR PROGRAM
DESIGN THE FUTURE
We’re thrilled to welcome students to the new school year and our brand-new Sillers Center! This stunning, two-story, 28,000-square-foot building features a cutting-edge Design Center for all grade levels, an expanded and dedicated space for our Early Education Program, a vibrant community Welcome Cafe, and a spacious, light-filled lobby that sets a warm, welcoming tone for everyone who walks through our doors. Surrounding it all are 40,000 square feet of beautiful, park-like outdoor spaces—perfect for learning, gathering, and play.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of it. The Design The Future Donor Wall, proudly displayed in our new lobby, honors the generous supporters who are helping bring these bold new learning spaces to life. There’s still time to add your name! Gifts of all sizes are welcome and appreciated, and we’ll continue accepting contributions through the end of the campaign in December 2025. Your support helps shape the future for our students—and ensures that our learning environment reflects the innovation, creativity, and community spirit that defines St. Mary’s. And stay tuned—we’re already thinking about exciting ways to bring families into the new space this year for hands-on learning experiences and community connection. The future is here, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
OTHER GIVING
At a few points during the year, you’ll have opportunities to support special programs. The Book Fair helps grow our IB Hub library and encourages a love of reading; the Jog-a-Thon promotes fitness and raises funds for physical education and athletics; and the Arts Program comes alive through performances, exhibits, and creative initiatives. Families and local businesses often join in as sponsors, helping to make these beloved traditions possible. We encourage all parents to attend and support these fun and meaningful programs.
SIGNATURE FUNDRAISING EVENTS
St. Mary’s Golf Classic:
The Golf Classic, held in the fall, brings together golfers of all skill levels for a fun-filled day of golf, friendly competition, contests, raffles, as well as a closing reception with cocktails and appetizers. Participation in the Golf Classic is a great opportunity to engage with other parents while supporting St. Mary’s.
St. Mary’s Benefit Dinner & Gala:
The Spring Benefit Dinner and Gala is an evening dedicated to fun and fundraising. This is an opportunity to come together as a community for a night of fellowship, celebration and an opportunity for us to raise significant contributions toward key programs that enhance our school.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2025 ALISO VIEJO COUNTRY CLUB
Cash or Check
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WAYS TO GIVE
THANKS FOR GIVING!
There are many ways to support St. Mary’s. If you don’t see an option below that best fits with your family’s needs, we will be happy to discuss other alternatives with you.
Gifts of Securities
The majority of families choose to make their gift to St. Mary’s by check either as a single donation or as payments towards a pledge. Simply make your check payable to St. Mary’s and deliver or mail it to the Development Office.
Credit Card
Make your donation with a Visa, MasterCard or American Express card online at www.smaa.org/donate or visit the Development Office.
Pledges
Pledges are a popular way for families to demonstrate their commitment to support St. Mary’s early in the campaign, yet delay payment for a later date that works better for their family or maximizes a tax deduction. Pledges can be fulfilled by cash, check, credit card or securities in one installment or monthly installments before a specified pledge payment period. Pledges to the school can be made online at www.smaa.org/donate.
Matching Gifts
Many corporations demonstrate their support to St. Mary’s by matching their employees’ donations to our school. Matching gifts can double your contribution to St. Mary’s. Donors are recognized for the total of the combined amount of their gift plus their employer matching gift. Please contact your HR department to inquire about a matching program or the Development Office so we can research that information for you.
Restricted Gifts
These contributions are restricted by the donor for a particular project or program that has been identified by the school as an area of need.
Gifts of appreciated stock and/or securities represent a two-fold savings opportunity. Donors avoid paying capital gains taxes on the increased values of their stocks. In addition, donors receive a tax deduction for the full market value of the stock on the date of the gift.
Planned Giving
Planned gifts are made now and distributed in the future. Including St. Mary’s in an estate plan provides for the long-term fiscal health of St. Mary’s and gives donors the opportunity to receive immediate or deferred tax benefits while leaving a legacy. All parents and grandparents are encouraged to consider naming St. Mary’s in their will and making the school aware of their gift Corporate and Foundation Giving St. Mary’s strives to attain grants and funding from foundations and corporate giving entities for school needs. Because these grants are quite competitive, it is extremely helpful to have a contact within the funding organization. Please let us know if you or your extended family has contacts with philanthropic agencies.
Other Ways to Financially Support St. Mary’s School
• Gifts of tangible personal property
• Attend fundraising events
• Event Sponsorship/Underwriting
• Register your Ralph’s grocery card to have a percentage given to St. Mary’s (#80397)
YOUR GENEROUS GIFT MATTERS
• Donate or pledge to St. Mary’s at www.smaa.org/donate
• Bring your donation to the Development Office
• Mail your donation to:
St. Mary’s Development Office 7 Pursuit Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
As a 501 (c)(3) corporation, gifts to St. Mary’s are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law, tax identification number 33-0771131.
HAVE A QUESTION OR WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
Here’s who to contact on our Advancement Team:
Annual Giving & Fundraising Support
Sarah Abuel-Saud
Director of Annual and Leadership Giving
Reach out to Sarah with any questions about our annual giving programs— including giving to the St. Mary’s Fund, Events, or the Scholar Program.
General Inquiries & New Family Program
Cara Acker
Development Associate
For any general questions or if you’re not sure where to start, Cara is happy to point you in the right direction. — cara.acker@smaa.org
Alumni, Grandparents Day, & Special Programs
Virtue Byrd
Director of Constituent Engagement and Advancement Programs
Reach out to Virtue if you have questions about alumni connections, Grandparents Day, or school-wide advancement programming. — virtue.byrd@smaa.org
Volunteering, Events, & Parent Involvement
Kristie Kender
Parent Engagement and Events Manager
Kristie is your go-to for all things related to volunteering, upcoming events, and ways to connect with other families on campus. — kristie.kender@smaa.org
Philanthropy, Leadership Giving, & Campaign Support
Jen Staudenbaur
Executive Director of Advancement
Reach out to Jen for high-level strategic questions around Advancement and if you’re interested in making a philanthropic impact at St. Mary’s or supporting the Design The Future campaign. — jen.staudenbaur@smaa.org
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