York Impact Report

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Impact Report 2024–2025

Dear Members of the York Community,

Since my arrival on campus in June, I’ve been a diligent student of something that you’re already quite familiar with: the York experience. It’s been fascinating to explore what makes this very special institution tick, and I’m pleased to share some of my early observations with you. One framework I’ve adopted for thinking about what makes the York experience unique is the difference between two kinds of education—the transactional and the transformational.

Like many people (at least those who aren’t fortunate enough to be York alumni), I had a perfectly sound, but thoroughly transactional, education. I went through an academically well-regarded public school system. I did my work, which, in hindsight, consisted mostly of repeating back the facts that had been given to me by my teachers, and in return, I received the credentials I would need to continue my education. In the end, I “won the game” by being admitted to a selective college. I got, in other words, the what I’d been told I’d been working towards all my life (that nice, fat admissions envelope), and the transaction was complete.

It wasn’t until many years later that I realized there was another dimension that my education had omitted entirely: the why. The why is what a transformational education—and, I would argue, a York education—is all about. As the name suggests, a transformational education does all the work of a transactional education, in terms of preparation and credentialing, but also transforms the recipient into a more fully realized human being, the kind of person who richly interrogates their experiences, and who consequently goes through life with a welldeveloped sense of curiosity and purpose.

As so many of you know, attending York is utterly transformational for our students, and I’m convinced that the time they spend here is truly life-changing. We’re able to achieve this magical metamorphosis by bringing together a collection of bright, kind, curious, and driven young people and a group of caring and talented educators, all within a community that is defined by our core values of honesty, respect, responsibility, and compassion. The results of this convergence are, as you are well aware, nothing short of spectacular.

Outcomes like these are what you support when you give to York School. Your generosity makes possible the growth and development of the young people on our campus. And your gifts are helping to change the world for the better, one York alumni at a time. (You need only read about the remarkable accomplishments of our alumni in this report to be assured of their collective impact in their communities.) In an age when the challenges by which we’re beset make it easy to despair for the future, nothing inspires hope and optimism like seeing our students at work each day becoming the best versions of themselves.

Thank you for making these remarkable transformations happen through your support.

Sincerely,

Student Philanthropy

Locally and Globally

York alumni frequently reference how service-oriented and community-minded their York experience was. Students in 2025 confirm these beliefs.

Since its creation by Danica Tang ’21, Project Light has been fundraising and supporting organizations locally and across the globe, each year focusing on a specific topic. Last year, students chose two organizations that received a donation from the club: The Village Project and Community Human Services. Vanitha Glover ‘25, the club’s Vice President, shared why she was inspired by the mission of Project Light:

Justin Robles-Parra ’26 decided to start his own serviceoriented club at York, inspired by his father, who is a long-term Rotarian.

It was an eye-opening experience to see what life is like for people outside of the Monterey bubble.

“I enjoy going out into the community and offering a bit of brightness to people’s days through our cardmaking or food sales. My dad has always instilled the value of helping others in our community, whether we’re helping a homeless person get a meal, helping the person in front of us with groceries, or going out of our way to help family without a second thought…”

Justin

’26

“I wanted to create something that was connected to the community, and so I can provide service opportunities that students really care about,” he shared. “I wanted to say ‘yes’ to service and ended up being invited to go on a trip to Uganda to help build schools and homes. Dayton Hughes, our sponsor from Rotary Club of Monterey Bay Passport, proposed an exciting fundraising challenge to our newly formed club, sponsoring a student’s tuition, meals, clothes, and insurance for a whole year in Uganda.”

Meet Kasirye, a student from Uganda, sponsored by the Interact Club of York School.

On his experience in Uganda, Justin shares, “It was an eye-opening experience to see what life is like for people outside of the Monterey Bubble. I wish I could bring more people there to witness it.”

When asked why young people should be involved in philanthropy, she said, “It’s important for young people to be involved in philanthropy because it can allow them to meet people from all walks of life, giving them a better understanding of the challenges the world throws at them.”

Looking ahead, Interact and Project Light student clubs will join forces to work together in service of Monterey County and will continue to support Kasirye through his education.

Justin Robles-Parra ‘26 & Dayton Hughes

STEAMship in Action

Last year marked the inaugural launch of the York School STEAMships Grant Program, an initiative designed to spark curiosity and creativity by funding independent, original projects in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Whether focused on academic research, artistic expression, or hands-on experimentation, STEAMships empower students to explore their passions.

The program was made possible through the vision and generosity of Dr. Bill Atwood, who not only funded the initiative but also attended the presentations to support and cheer on the first group of recipients. His belief in the power of student-led exploration is already leaving a lasting impact.

“STEAMships grew out of a brainstorming session I had with [trustee] Marianne Gawain,” Bill shared, “We both attended the presentations and were blown away. The projects were impressively sophisticated, and the breadth of topics—aeronautics, hydroponics, and the creation of a musical— was remarkable. I’m sure these projects became jewels in the students’ college applications. Enabling the start of such a wonderful program is rewarding beyond description!”

The first group of STEAMships scholars set a high bar for the program:

• Trevor Bernardino ’25 – A Filipino Musical

• Alvin Liu ’25 – The Effects of Variable Angles of Attack on Airplane Performance and Contrail Formation

• Aleksander Simpson ’26 – Backyard Aquaponics System

Aleksander shared his thoughts with us:

“STEAMships Grant was a great stepping stone for me to pursue a personal project in something I was passionate about. Through the help of York and its generous donors, I was able to learn more about things that interest me and receive funding to learn about and construct an aquaponics system in my own backyard!”

The momentum continues this year with a new group of 11th-grade innovators:

• Ayden Kanter – Electric Guitar Woodworking Build

• Derek Lee – Using AI to Improve Senior Citizens’ Access to Healthcare

• Donilo Shivers – Compost to Combustion: Creating Fuel from Organic Waste

Alumni Reunion

In 2024, we were so delighted to welcome our forever falcons to campus once again!

On Friday, many enjoyed the Day at York, remembering their days on the sunny hilltop and inside the classroom. Some of the highlights included a campus tour, enchanting chamber choir practice, and our newest experiential learning offeringCooking with Chemistry and Design Shop.

On Saturday, alumni attended a traditional Fall Fair in the morning, followed by a mixer at Stokes Adobe, owned by Sarah Orr ’97.

Over 70 alumni, current and past York faculty members, and trustees attended Reunion 2024! Your presence reminds us that York’s story is still being written, and the bonds you formed here continue to make our community stronger!

Go Class of ’99! Returning to campus and reconnecting with classmates was incredible! Even driving up the hill brought back wonderful memories. It’s amazing to see the growth and development on campus and to reminisce while walking through the columns. Best of all, hearing about everyone’s families and successes is a reminder of the great character our school continues to inspire. Can't wait to see everyone at the next reunion!

York’s Young Alumni Panel 2025

Starting off the year strong, six Falcons returned to campus in early January to share their experiences and insights with our students. This year, we offered a more tailored program for each grade, ensuring that conversations were relevant and meaningful. Students in grades 10–12 had the opportunity to participate and ask their own questions—sophomores explored how to make the most of their York experience in preparation for college, while seniors discussed topics such as living independently and navigating life with roommates.

Laughter, thoughtful advice, and genuine connection filled every room. We are deeply grateful to Jordan Mosebach ’21, Jason Khan ’22, Hannah Xu ’23, Tianlin “Daniel” Xu ’22, Fletcher Gaucher ’20, and Kaira Aldape Duron ’21 for generously sharing their stories from college life and beyond!

Soaring High: A Year of Athletic Achievement at York

At York, athletics are about more than competition—they’re about growth, grit, and celebrating the spirit of teamwork. This past year, Falcon athletes across every sport showed tremendous skill and dedication, making their mark in league play and beyond.

On the court, the girls’ volleyball team placed 4th in the Pacific Coast Athletic League (PCAL) Santa Lucia division, with Esbeidy RodriguezCalvo ‘25 named All-League Setter. The JV water polo team had a strong season, led by standouts Sam Clarke ‘26 and Milana Wilson ‘27, and with most players returning, the future looks bright.

The cross country team narrowly missed a division win, taking 3rd overall, thanks to the determination of leaders Diego Silva-Audelo ‘26, Ivan Bischoff ‘27, Ayden Kanter ‘27, and Peter Stratton ‘28. Meanwhile, the field hockey JV squad, led by captains Sasha Campbell ‘25, Lily Gill ‘25, and Jenna Alaniz ‘26, played with grit and set the stage for seasons to come.

In tennis, #1 singles player Yolanda Chen ‘25 and captain Winnie Wu ‘25 guided the team. Boys tennis had a great year in the Gabilan Division, led by strong players such as Bryan Kim ‘25, James Brunicardi ‘27, and Andre Sukyas ‘26. The team placed in the top 5 of the PCAL (out of 33 teams in this division) and is growing stronger, with many players returning.

One of the biggest highlights came from the boys’ basketball team, which went undefeated in PCAL league play under Coach Adisa Vaughn. The girls’ basketball team finished 5th in Santa Lucia, with strong play from Asya Wilson ‘26 and Most Improved Julia Rao ‘26, and earned the PCAL Sportsmanship Award.

On the pitch, the girls’ soccer team

was led by Alessia Torrente ‘25, Alexa Arango-Cuevas ‘25, and Rookie of the Year Aaliyah Pina ‘28, with standout performances from Minx Adelman ‘27 and goalie Ja’Khiah McMillian ‘26. The boys’ soccer team, coached by alumni Johnny De Anda ’12 and Lucas Franco ’13, celebrated Diego Silva Audelo’s First Team All-League honor and a Sportsmanship Award.

Other standouts included a 3rd place finish for boys’ volleyball, Central Coast Section (CCS) qualification in golf by Daniel Scott ‘27, strong showings in swimming, and talented spring athletes in track and field, with a standout from Amelia Teta ‘26.

Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy
Annual Giving & Alumni Relations

Finding Belonging: How Affinity Clubs

Shape Community at York School

At York School, affinity clubs have become essential spaces for students to connect, share experiences, and find support. Designed as safe environments for students to bond over shared identities, these groups have successfully built a culture of inclusivity.

According to the student leaders, these groups do more than create spaces for those who join—they also raise visibility outside their membership. “Affinity groups bring awareness to the achievements and existence of said groups, which builds tolerance schoolwide,” one club leader shared. The mission of York’s Black Student Union (BSU) is to create a safe space for York’s Black students to share their lived experiences, lean on one another and cultivate community, and celebrate Black culture. In three words: Safety, Solidarity & Celebration.

This year, the BSU has really shone. Under the enthusiastic leadership of BSU Co-founder and Copresident Ava Hoffmeister, achievements include: growing club membership, welcoming prominent alum Ben Jealous to campus, attracting participation and guidance from the greater Monterey County Black community, and raising over $2,000 in support of its mission.

The BSU membership has grown to 16 members, the largest it has ever been. “They are excited and optimistic and really feeling like this is their school— that they belong—for the first time. Every Black Student on campus is now a part of the BSU,” said their faculty advisor, Dr. Dan Gurska.

Ben Jealous forum: In May of 2025, prominent national political activist, author, and York alumnus Ben Jealous ‘90 returned to campus at the invitation of the BSU. The school-wide forum was very well attended by both the York community and people from the Monterey area. Mr. Jealous fondly recounted his time at the school and the unique, very accepting culture of York in his day. Jealous praised the tenacious work of the current BSU for bringing York back to the best of its traditions; being a safe place for all. He went on to give insight on the small but powerful ways people can ‘show up’ and make a difference, how faith and not giving up are a fundamental element of leadership, and that everyone has something to teach you. And notably, he emphasised that in these days, leaders should “not be shy to work with someone who has offended them,” rather, they should focus on the issue at hand and respect others’ courage for coming to the table.

In service of this goal, the BSU has plans to continue building connections and raising the visibility of the Black community through its club meetings, hosting guest speakers, and tackling the need for safe outlets for all students. Hoffmeister noted, “Our work is not only for those in affinity groups. Dealing with racism, homophobia, transphobia, micro- and macroaggressions is emotionally draining for anybody.” Looking ahead, student leaders hope that York’s affinity groups will continue to grow, not only in numbers but in influence across campus culture. By fostering dialogue, hosting events, and welcoming allies into their spaces, these groups are working to ensure that every student feels seen and supported. Their presence signals student desire for a school environment where differences are not just acknowledged but celebrated as essential to the fabric of the community.

York School Philanthropy Department with contributions by Ava Hoffmeister, Dan Gurska, and the article ‘Affinity Clubs Foster Inclusion’ by Esther Spaulding in the December 2024 Oracle

Congratulations, Class of 2025!

We are so proud to welcome 33 York graduates from Class of 2025 to the Alumni Community. A special class of many firsts— the first class to go to Costa Rica, the first class since COVID to spend all four years on campus, and the first Distinguished Scholars class. Congratulations, Class of 2025, you are truly one-of-a-kind!

Be curious, not judgemental. Stay open, stay curious, and never stop learning about the people around you.

‘25

Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy | Annual Giving & Alumni Relations

Charge to the Class: Michael Borrowman (Mr. B)

Welcome: Alexa Arango-Cuevas ‘25, Student Body President

Valedictory Address: Alvin Liu ‘25

Welcome New Alumni: Ilang Guiroy ‘05

Farewell: Brandon Whaley ‘25, Senior Class President

Get inspired!

Watch the 2025 Commencement here: bit.ly/york2025grad

As we stand on the edge of whatever comes next, let’s remember that the lessons we learned here go far beyond the books… I know we will embrace the opportunity and the resources presented to us. I know that we will treat each step as a new beginning rather than a destination. And I know that we are ready for what’s next.

Driven to Impact York Scholars in Action

At York, being driven is not a label—it is a practice. It is the energy that transforms a spark of curiosity into a sustained inquiry, a single draft into a public documentary, and a private idea into community impact. The York Scholars Program embodies this ethos: more than an honors track, it is a launchpad for research, collaboration, and leadership with purpose.

Building a Capstone Culture

This was a pivotal year for York Scholars, as 2024–2025 marked the groundwork for a transformational expansion. Beginning in 2025–2026, AP Seminar will become a required course for the York Scholars program, establishing the foundation of a full AP Capstone pathway. Soon, every York Scholar will design, conduct, and defend original research through AP Research—an endeavor that places students not only in the role of learners, but as knowledge-makers. This shift signals York’s commitment to preparing students with the intellectual discipline and adaptive skills they will need for college, career, and civic life.

Jenny Nadaner, Director, York Scholars & AP Capstone Program | World Languages Faculty (Spanish)

Student Impact in Action

Over the past year, York Scholars tackled urgent and varied questions: climate justice, language revitalization through artificial intelligence, equity in technology access, and youth-led responses to the mental health crisis. They learned to identify gaps in existing research, translate complex findings to real audiences, and design solutions grounded in both scholarship and empathy.

The Capstone Showcase in May 2025 embodied this principle of learning-to-impact. The event opened with a compelling keynote on Conflict Transformation by Dr. Netta Avineri, Professor and Chair of Intercultural Communication and Graduate Director of the Davis Collaborative in Conflict Transformation at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies. Dr. Avineri challenged students to see their projects as more than academic exercises: to view them as contributions to dialogue and repair within communities.

Their presentations rose to this call. Projects ranged from algorithmic tools for textbook affordability to regenerative farm curricula created with JAS Family Organics, to water-tunnel tested prototypes for clean aviation. Students translated research on mental health advocacy into public murals, campaigns, and documentary short films. A newly launched language revitalization initiative used AI to create conversational companions, supporting communities in rekindling endangered languages. Each project was both intellectually rigorous and tangibly applied—a testament to the York Scholar commitment to scholarship as public service.

Professional Engagement Opportunities

Equally important to the year’s impact was exposure to professionals who bridge research with real-world practice. From site visits with Google Cloud and Joby Aviation, to simulations at the Moss Landing Power Plant, to firsthand dialogue with impact documentary filmmakers such as Splicer Films at the United Nations Association Film Festival at Stanford University, students encountered innovation at the frontiers of science, storytelling, and sustainability. These experiences reinforced an enduring lesson: meaningful scholarship does not end in the classroom, but expands into networks of action where young researchers find their voices alongside leaders and practitioners.

Partnership with JAS Family Farms

Perhaps the most transformative collaboration this year grew out of our partnership with JAS Family Farms in Hollister, the first certified regenerative organic farm in California, and its founder and pioneering farmer, Tony Serrano. Over months of fieldwork and design sessions, York Scholars co-created “Cultivating the Future: Designing a Sustainable Educational Hub at JAS Farms.” This vision integrates regenerative agriculture, STEM innovation, global studies, and the arts into a regional hub for learning and community engagement. Scholars developed not only a model for sustainability but also a blueprint for hope. Sharing their collective work at the 2025 Global Learning Climate Summit in San Francisco, I witnessed their vision resonate powerfully with experts from Habitat for Humanity, Community Alliance with Family Farmers, Fair Trade International, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture. The project demonstrated what is possible when climate anxiety is transformed into climate action—a principle that stands at the heart of the York Scholars program.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, the launch of AP Research will complete York’s AP Capstone sequence, ensuring every York Scholar graduates with the experience of designing and defending an original inquiry. Partnerships with JAS Farms, Regenerative California, Joby Aviation, and the Salinas Community Science Workshop will continue to broaden avenues for immersive, applied learning.

At York, we believe that when students are given the tools, mentorship, and permission to pursue ambitious questions, they rise. They rise into scholars who publish, advocate, and build. They rise into leaders who understand that curiosity is not a private pursuit, but a gift to the community and to future generations. Our York Scholars are proof: being driven is not simply what you are, but what you do.

Jazz at York

Looking back on the last year, I see a program growing in skill, confidence, and community. Students are learning how to rehearse with purpose, perform with heart, and support one another. There’s no secret ingredient. We show up, do the work, share the music, learn from the moment, and keep moving.

Day to day, no two rehearsals look the same. Our goals shift with the season and the stage. Over the past year, we dug into large combo and big band charts, featured our first vocalists at Grandparents Day, and sent student combos to the Lit Mag event and Café Night. Each setting offers a different lens on the same question: how do I grow as a creative and learn more about myself and my journey?

Most tunes still begin the same way: a loud snap, and we are off to the races. The kids ask, “Mr. Lopez, how do you snap so loud?” Years of practice. Then we get back to listening, counting clean, and serving the song. I have watched beginners pick up an instrument on day one and show real growth by year’s end. I have seen music readers become literate musicians and stage-shy students step forward and shine. Confidence and ability are rising, and it shows.

Our first off-campus show at Deja Blue, Swingin’ to the Holidays, carries that story. The room was packed and everything felt real—the lights, the heat, the eyes watching. Students discovered what it meant to be entertainers, not just players. You could see it in their posture, hear it in their tone, and feel it in the way they looked out and chose to connect.

We have also nurtured a growing partnership with the Monterey Jazz Festival. Last year, we took our first field trip to the Concert on the Lawn, and this year we plan to bring even more students and families. We attend the festival to hear world-class musicians up close, and the education team has helped us close instrument gaps with classroom saxophones and trombones. We wouldn’t be where we are without the Monterey Jazz Festival, and we are grateful.

I’d like to give special thanks to Spencer Williams; the Monterey Jazz Festival and its education team; Deja Blue; York faculty, staff, and alumni; and, most of all, the families of our student musicians. Your support turns practice into progress and stages into classrooms. Thank you for helping this band take flight.

Chris Lopez, Jazz Band Director

Learning by Choice: Experiential Learning at York

At York, we know that some of the most memorable lessons happen when students step beyond the traditional curriculum and try something new. Our Experiential Learning program is built around this idea: each semester, students choose from a slate of courses that invite them to explore, experiment, and create through hands-on, real-world projects.

The beauty of Experiential Learning is its flexibility. Instead of adding more work to students’ schedules, it opens space for them to follow their curiosity. Every course is choice-based, giving students the freedom to select what excites them most. Some are drawn to building practical skills—changing a tire in Automotive Basics or mastering kitchen skills in Cooking with Chemistry. Others gravitate toward the arts, whether strumming a Ukulele, writing poetry, or painting a collaborative outdoor mural. Still others dive into inquiry-based challenges like Ethics Bowl or Mock Trial, honing critical thinking and debate skills.

This year’s offerings capture the wide range of possibilities: Electrical Circuits, Financial Literacy, Dance, Marine Science, Theater Design, The Album Experience, and The York Oracle are just a few examples. Walk through campus during Experiential Learning and you might see students listening to 70s rock as part of a music history deep-dive, planning the layout of the next school newspaper, designing a new mural, or donning an Antarctic drysuit to better understand marine biology. The sheer variety reflects the heart of the program: students get to explore interests that might never appear in a traditional course catalog.

The Experiential Learning Program provides a unique outlet for community building and teamwork among students that is found nowhere else on campus.
Daniel Campos ‘25
Spencer Williams, Arts Department Chair, Director of Performing Arts

Planting Seeds for the Future

What begins as an experiment often grows into something lasting. By giving students the chance to test out new interests in a low-stakes, creative environment, Experiential Learning continually plants the seeds for future programs. Rock Band is one of the best examples—last Spring’s course has now blossomed into a full elective and is quickly becoming one of our music program’s favorite creative outlets.

Skills That Matter

Of course, the impact goes far beyond any single project. In every course, students are building skills that serve them for life: collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and adaptability. They learn to lead and to listen, to take creative risks, and to recover when things don’t go as planned. They experience what it means to produce something real—whether that’s a published article, a finished mural, a public performance, or a working electrical circuit.

These lessons are practical, but they’re also deeply personal. Students often discover unexpected strengths: a quiet student finds confidence in presenting at TEDxYorkSchool; a self-proclaimed “non-artist” discovers joy in painting; a young musician realizes they can compose their own work. These moments of discovery help students grow into confident, authentic learners who know how to navigate challenges and pursue their passions.

Community Connections

Experiential Learning also strengthens York’s ties to the broader community. Many projects are supported by local organizations and experts who share their time and resources with our students. Whether it’s artists mentoring young creators, scientists offering insights into environmental research, or donors providing tools and materials, these partnerships help transform ideas into reality. They remind students that their work has meaning beyond the classroom—that it can impact and inspire others.

Looking Ahead

The program continues to evolve each year, driven by student curiosity and faculty innovation. What remains constant is the spirit of exploration: the chance to choose, to create, and to experience learning in its most active, authentic form.

Experiential Learning is where students discover new talents, stretch their comfort zones, and realize that learning is not just preparation for the future—it’s an adventure happening right now.

Backstage at York Building a Technical Theater Legacy

Over the past year and a half, York’s theatre program has undergone a remarkable transformation. With an intentional focus on increasing production value through technical elements, the school’s performances have reached new levels of professionalism and artistry. What began as a bold step forward in 2024 with Ride the Cyclone has now blossomed into a full-fledged technical theatre program, giving students an immersive, hands-on education in the behindthe-scenes magic that makes great theatre possible.

The shift began when York School’s art department chair and choir director, Spencer Williams, hired director Andrea Hart to direct Alice by Heart in the spring of 2023. That production marked a turning point. As York placed greater emphasis on technical execution to fully realize the creative vision on stage, stage designer and technician Scott Boynton was hired. Williams had been developing a long-range plan to expand York’s theatre program for several years, and bringing in more professional theatre experts was a central piece of that vision. His plan included not only building a stronger technical theatre track but also expanding opportunities for students by adding a dedicated fall play and assembling professional directing teams to provide students with an authentic, industry-level theatre experience.

The first steps were ambitious. In the fall of 2024, Boynton formed the Tech Theater Club to help build the set for Almost, Maine and the then-unannounced spring musical, Les Misérables School Edition. Students gained hands-on experience with tools, materials, and design/build processes, while also learning the collaborative spirit that theater demands. The project generated so much enthusiasm that interest quickly outgrew the club model. By the spring semester of 2025, York launched its first official Tech Theater class, opening the door for a structured, curriculum-based approach to backstage education.

That same spring, York embarked on its most ambitious production to date: Les Misérables School Edition. The scale of the show demanded intricate scenery, advanced lighting, and seamless technical coordination. Students in the Tech Theater class rose to the challenge, working side by side with Boynton to bring the massive world of 19th-century France to life. This course embeds experiential, skills-based learning into the curriculum— teaching students how to use construction materials and power tools, while also thinking creatively and collaboratively to solve a unique problem each semester.

The success of Les Misérables demonstrated what is possible when students are given both the tools and the mentorship to realize bold creative visions. But even with a more structured theater course and dedicated staff, York Theater is still in the early stages of building a professional-caliber program. Just last year, the department was working without even basic power tools, and though since then it has improved drastically, it still lacks a complete inventory. Students and staff are building scenery outside or in the theater itself, often during after-school rehearsals and weekends.

The infrastructure also has room to grow. York’s current lighting system is outdated, and the department is exploring an upgrade to modern LED fixtures. On the other hand, progress has already been made in sound, with the creation of a permanent sound booth replacing the temporary setups of previous years. Each improvement reflects York’s commitment to giving students the resources they need, while also underscoring the reality that this program is still laying its foundation.

York’s backstage journey is one of growth and determination. With continued investment in tools, space, and technology, the technical theater program is poised not only to support ambitious productions but also to become a defining part of not only York’s artistic identity, but also Monterey County arts. That growth continues this fall with Clue High School Edition, running November 7-16. For more information, visit york.org/theatre.

Scott Boynton, Technical Theater | MakerSpace Tech | Digital Design
Photo from York’s production of Les Miserables. Photo by Grace Khieu.

Philanthropy Report

Photo of York’s production of Almost, Maine.

Dear York Community,

Every time I have the opportunity to visit York, I am reminded of its physical beauty, but more importantly, of the life-changing experiences that it provides. It also reminds me of how immensely grateful I am to all the people who help sustain York as a vibrant, nurturing, and caring community.

I recently visited York for the alumni and friends’ weekend, and I encourage everyone to come to next year’s event. It is a wonderful way to see York in action. Here are some of the highlights of my weekend:

During the alumni visit day on Friday, I had the opportunity to listen to a lively and insightful discussion about All Quiet on the Western Front, which demonstrated York’s continuing commitment to academic excellence. The teacher mentioned that he has retained this book in the curriculum because the prior year’s classes felt that it was critical that it remain.

I then had the opportunity to participate in Cooking with Chemistry, which is one of the many amazing classes in York’s new Experiential Learning program. You can learn more about this program in other parts of this report. While making fondue, we reviewed chemical reactions and spent time discussing combustion concepts related to the burners that were used to heat the chocolate. It concluded with taste testing multiple types of chocolate and fruits! As just a partial example of the rich diversity of this program, in other parts of the campus, students were working on car brakes in the automotive repair experience, sharpening their financial literacy skills, or learning to play the ukulele.

Next was a brief visit to York’s newest AP class—AP Seminar—where students were engaged in college-level investigative activities and discussing approaches to tackling some of today’s most pressing challenges. The day also included a hilarious session on the history of York School, laden with noteworthy and colorful student and faculty hijinks from the past.

Saturday was York’s fall festival, which included fantastic musical performances by multiple students and many student-run booths, including a green market featuring produce from a regenerative farm.

Later that day, there was a mixer at Stokes Abode (owned by a York alum), which was attended by over 80 alums, faculty, former faculty, and friends. This was an excellent way to reconnect with old friends as well as make new ones. It reminded me of something I had been told several years ago, “York students make great adults!” The weekend was a powerful reminder of the unique educational experiences that York offers, “traditional” academic excellence with an eye towards the future of teaching and learning. Most importantly, it showed York’s commitment to its community and to honesty, responsibility, respect, and compassion, which were on display throughout the weekend.

I know that you have many options on where to dedicate your philanthropic resources. Personally, I’m sincerely grateful to all those who invested in York to support my own education and who continue to support the school to benefit our current and future students. Your generosity makes an incredible lifelong impact on our students and our community.

Sincerely,

Total: $7,503,412

42% FRIENDS & ASSOCIATES

Sources of Annual Giving

15%

ALUMNI PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS

11% CURRENT PARENTS & GRANDPARENTS

11% TRUSTEES

8% ALUMNI & STUDENTS

13% FOUNDATIONS & CORPORATIONS

Donate to York School

York School accepts donations in many forms. You can find additional information on ways to give here

Donations to the School are tax deductible as a charitable contribution. We encourage you to consult with your tax advisor about the specifics of your gift. Our federal tax identification number is 94-1461062.

Annual Giving

INSPIRATION

CIRCLE | $25,000 AND ABOVE

2 Anonymous Donors

The Williams McCaskey Chapman and Adeline Dinsmore Chapman Foundation

Community Foundation for Monterey County

Daniel Fenton ‘76 and Denise Fenton

The Nancy Eccles and Homer M. Hayward Family Foundation

Mark Kerman ‘78

Pam and Gifford Lehman

Sheron and Robert Long

Monterey County Gives!

Payette River Foundation

Charles Schwab Corporation Foundation

EXCELLENCE CIRCLE | $12,000 – $24,999

Norelle and Rob Boyce

Fidelity Charitable Donor Advised Funds

Jeanne and Samuel Gesumaria

Monterey College of Law

Corie and Fane Opperman

Pebble Beach Company Foundation

Michele and Ambrose Pollock

Renaissance Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Nicholas Sturch

VisionSoft, Inc.

Marsha McMahan Zelus

SHIELD CIRCLE | $6,000 – $11,999

3 Anonymous Donors

Benevity Community Impact Fund

Capital Group – American Funds

Marianne Gawain ‘76

Beverly Lannquist Hamilton

Rich Hamilton and Debra Schadeck

Christine Lee ‘85 and Eric Vallières

Kristen and Duncan Maitland

National Philanthropic Trust

Ken Scates and Suzanne Gibson

Larry Steiner

The Webster Family

PEREGRINE

CIRCLE $3,000 – $5,999

American Endowment Foundation

William Atwood

Colleen and John Bailey

Big Sur Marathon Foundation

Eileen and Art Chatoff

Sarah Chatoff Dieselman

Agnes Chien and Howard Nelson

Thomas Drendel ‘74 and Terrel Drendel

Hussein Elbakri ‘11

Mary and Frank Fritsch

Ellen and Paul Gaucher

Constance Hays

Elizabeth and Joseph W. Heston

Cheryl Heyermann

Patrick Jenifer ‘91

Royal Little Family Foundation

Galen Lowe ‘81

Carol Lowrey

Paul Matsui ‘89 and Jen Oullette

Morgan Stanley GIFT

Cory Ray and Craig Rowell

Gary Ray and Katy Castagna

Matt and Kirsti Scott

Clark Shishido ‘86

Anthony Stratakos and Chryssa Maragos

Lawrence Tartaglino

Cynthia and Richard Thawley

Vanguard Charitable

Heather and Michael Winter

Chan Zuckerberg Foundation

LEADERSHIP

CIRCLE | $1,500 – $2,999

Anonymous Donor

American Express Give2Gether Team

Apple Matching Gift Program

Julie and Christopher Barlow

Amy Eberly and Tyler Eberly

Aaron Eppler ‘89 and Gloria Eppler

The Bates Family

Debra Hale and Andrew Ward

Lynn and Sean Kragelund

Leonard Laub and Yvonne Ascher

The McGuire Family

Peter Meryash ‘83

Stephanie and Peter Oshman

Marcia and Don Pompan

Annual contributions of all amounts to the York fund, endowed funds, and special projects provide valuable funding for the school’s priorities. This list reflects combined giving to these funds during York’s fiscal year 2025.

LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

| $1,500 – $2,999 (cont.)

Dottie and Clyde Roberson

Karen and Dave Rossum

Wendy and Andrew Schmidt

Jill and Patrick Sherwood

Melissa Smith ‘90 and Robert Hill

Amy Smolen ‘88 and David Smolen

Judy and Wayne Tsuchitani

Robert Weil and Meredith Haberfeld

RED AND BLACK CIRCLE |

$750 – $1,499

Anonymous Donor

Mary Adams

Reverend Lucinda B. Ashby and Mr. Bob McEvilly

Catherine Bermudez ‘02 and Elias Bermudez

Nathaniel Brown and Yana Polyakova

Bill and Nancy Doolittle

Driscoll’s

Ann Frey Kroll ‘05 and Joshua Kroll ‘05

Frumkin Falco Family Foundation

Michael Frumkin and Christina Falco

Jennifer Gonzalez ‘91 and Mike Gonzalez

Robert Holmes ‘69 and Arlene Holmes

The Reverend Wendy and Mr. Kevin Howe

Jeff Jackson

Lisa and Alan Kanter

Nancy and Robert Ley

Tracie Lizama

Mason McCollum ‘18

Tamara and Christopher Meckel

Grace Merrill

Robert Meyer ‘69 and Kathleen Harner

Monterey Bay Area Scent Work Club, Inc.

Sean O’Rourke ‘92

Pacific Valley Bank

Adan Perez ‘98

Matthew Simis ‘88 and Michael Gray

Jesus Torres ‘91

Connie and Graham Yost

Mark Zanides ‘66 and Yamel Zanides

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749

4 Anonymous Donors

Mary Kay Acquazzino

Kennedy Adams

Sandra and Tavo Alaniz

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749

Ashleigh Anderson ‘04 and Michael Anderson ‘03

Georgeann and Larry Anderson

The L/G Anderson Family Foundation

David Aragon

Eric Axelsen ‘82 and Sjoukje Axelsen

Colleen Ayotte

Catherine Bacasen

Blake Bennett ‘08

Patricia and Larry Bernstein

Patricia and Matt Bischoff

Clementine Bonner Klein ‘95 and John Klein

Elizabeth Boone Hogen

Michael and Merritt Borrowman

Kennon and Roger Bowen

Scott Boynton

Mark Breimhorst ‘88

Adam Brodsley ‘85

Kevin and Beth Brookhouser

Lurena Brubaker

Bodhi Brunings ‘24

Angela Burks

Damon Campbell and Gina Michaels

Lynda and S. James Campbell

Terry Cash

Joanna Casson ‘83

Janette Cate ‘92

Sung Shim Choi

Carl Christensen and Jo Ann Novoson

Maren Christensen ‘02

Jeanette Cisneros

Robin and Andrew Clarke

Pamela Clemens

Shirley Coly

Jacqueline Cousineau ‘03

Mary and Pierre Cousineau

Jessica and Celso Cruz

Garrett Cry

Laura Curtis ‘87

Clara Cushing ‘12

DAFgiving 360

Heather Danishanko

Keren Dawson-Bowman ‘91

Jonathan De Anda Hernandez ‘12

Adrienne de la Fuente ‘06 and Dave de la Fuente

Lillian Dean ‘81

Colin Deeb ‘02

Amber Degn ‘94 and Thomas Denenberg

Annual Giving

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749

Aaryn Degn Silva ‘92 and Eugene Silva

Candi Deschamps

Tomika Anne Dew ‘76 and Paul Thimm

Luis Diaz-Infante

Timothy Ditzler ‘86 and Lynn Ditzler

Alice and Richard Dixon

Megan Doyon ‘76 and Leon Doyon

Hilary and Francis Duda

Anna Dudney Deeb ‘05 and Nic Deeb

Pam Durkee

Vikram Duvvoori and Sumana Reddy

Kristine Edmunds

Jill and Matthew Ellis

Steve and Dorothy Emerson

Christina and John Epega

Jennifer Eskenazi ‘96 and Jack Eskenazi

Chelsea Esterline ‘06

Denise Estrella ‘92

Anna and Daniel Faith

Mark Farmer ‘68 and Jean Farmer

Jennifer and Daniel Fessler

Eric Fink

Ginny and Keith Fogg

Erin and Trevor Fogg

John Fox ‘69 and Donna Fox

Laura Friedman ‘87 and Philip Friedman

Elun Gabriel ‘89 and Donna Alvah

Susan and Frank Ganzhorn

Sarah Ganzhorn ‘05

Jeanne and Edward Gavrin

Kirisa Gavrin ‘04

Mandy and Gabriel Georis

Chiara Giammanco MacPherson’06

Patricia Gillespie

Aviva Goldman-Lacey ‘75 and Michael Lacey

Binzee Gonzalvo ‘91 and Chiharu Noguchi

Crispina and Sol Gonzalvo

Donald and Esther Goodhue

Google Gift Matching Program

Bob Graves and Judy Norton

Peter Gray and Jennifer Golden

Mitchell Green ‘75

Teena Gruman

Brian Guest ‘09

Michael Guichet and Nicolette Daly Guichet

Louis Gularte ‘04

Daniel Gurska

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749

Alix Guyot ‘05

Monta and Russell Haisley

Haley Halasz

Jeff Hanna and Kakani Young

Nancy Harray

Stephen Hartman ‘91

Ann and Joseph Hasselbach

Valerie Hasselbach ‘96

Lane and Larry Hayes

Meagan Henderson ‘92 and Matthew Henderson

Peter Hiller and Celeste Williams

Thaddeus Hoffmeister and Alea Brown-Hoffmeister

Walter Howe ‘98 and Christina Van Wert

Deborah Howitt

Jasmine Hsu

Dagmar and James Huffman

Kayden Huffman ‘21

Dayton Hughes

Kristen and Joe Huston

Douglas Ikemi ‘72

Elizabeth and Hans Jannasch

Carlos Jimenez ‘08 and Brian Echols

Johnson & Johnson

Mary Johnson

Scot and Sylvia Johnson

Amanda Jones

Amanda and Mark Jones

Penny Jones

Cecile and John Joyner

Daphne and Gerard Kapolka

Cecilia Kennedy Insurance Agency

Tanya Khotin ‘83 and Mark Izeman

Kim Kiest

Ashley and Joseph Kinney

Youngju and Yangmo Koo

Nina Kooroshfar ‘08

Michelle Kozak ‘85 and Terry Eisele

Dan Kurz and Katharine Daniels Kurz

Mimi Lakind

Michael Lambert ‘97 and Katherine Lambert

Teo Lamiot ‘11

Michelle Lange

Chae Lee and Yunju Baik

Douglas C. Lee

Wilbur Lee ‘95 and Cordelia Lee

Anna Legard ‘04

Jessica and Matt Lewis

Annual contributions of all amounts to the York fund, endowed funds, and special projects provide valuable funding for the school’s priorities. This list reflects combined giving to these funds during York’s fiscal year 2025.

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749 (cont.)

Erica Lindberg ‘01

Wesley Lindberg ‘07

Gregory Littleton ‘82 and Dominique Lalli

Zhichao Liu and Yang Yang

Audrey and Alejandro Lorca

Frances Lozano

Sharon Lu ‘92 and Matt Morris

Sara Lukas ‘01 and David Lukas

Lori Luzader

Monika Macias and Blanca Navarro

Audrey Manganaro ‘04

Camilla Mann ‘91 and Jacob Mann

Gerard and Kristina Martin

John Martin

Marlene Martin

Yasuko Matsui

Rafe Mazzeo ‘78 and Laurance Nedelec

Carole and Larry Meeker

Sherilyn Menor-Albitar

Michael Minnis ‘76 and Patricia Minnis

Cambria Minott-Gaines ‘04

Felicia Mitchell Silva ‘75

Jennifer Mohlenhoff-Baggett ‘87 and Jeff Baggett

Morgana Mongraw-Chaffin ‘00 and Daniel Montgomery

Nicole and Hyatt Moore

Benjamin Morgan ‘90

Douglas Mueller and Malinda DeRouen Mueller

Lisa Mull

Cindy and Seamas Murphy

Jenny Nadaner

Joel Nagafuji

Sterling Nelson ‘02 and Irene Nelson ‘02

Scott Nelson Windels ‘93 and Sarah Windels

Mary Lee and Jim Newman

Mary Khasigian Nikssarian and David Nikssarian

Marina Nogueira ‘11

Natasha Nogueira ‘13

Vicki and Albert Norman

Bette H. Nybakken

Kent Nybakken ‘84 and Lisa Molz

Aya Ogawa ‘92 and Irwin Chen

Fana and Doug Oldfield

David Oliver ‘24

Heather and Michael Oliver

Juliet Oliver ‘22

Arik Olson ‘90

Micah Orliss ‘92 and Rosemary Surina

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749 (cont.)

Jennifer and Javier Ortiz

Victoria and Carl Palminteri

Eve Paretsky ‘91 and Karl Knaub

Dean Partlow and Lisa Marrack

Analynn and David Patterson

Morgan Paull ‘08

Donald Peattie and Lise Peterson

John Peattie ‘01

Suzanne Peng ‘01

Pescadaero Inc DBA Barmel

Steve Peters and Kristan Long

Eric Peterson ‘98

Michael Peterson ‘03

Elizabeth (Ward) Pham ‘93 and Khanh Pham

Jennifer Powell-Wiley ‘85

Ryan Quinnan ‘97

Joshua Ramey-Renk ‘88 and Peggy Ramey-Renk

Jessamin and Richard Rega

Robert Revers

Kevin Rider ‘82 and Katherine Rider

Jacqualine Riechers

Meryl Robertson

Joaquin Robles and Lily Parra

Giordana Rock ‘06

Adam Rose ‘00

Adrienne Rowell ‘06

Daniel Rubado

Edwin K.S. Ryu ‘69 and Julie Satake Ryu

Shelley (Berridge) Saitowitz ‘93

Salesforce, Inc.

Tom and Edna Sanchez

Andrea and George Sanico

Satake Ryu Family Fund of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation

Kathleen and Mike Scarr

Martine and Alan Scott

Neil Shah ‘08

Scott Shapley ‘87 and Laura Shapley

Charles Shivers and Krista Ostoich

Dianne and Michael Silva

Juan Silva-Ventura and Rosa Audelo-Sandoval

Aga and Graham Simpson

Zachary Smith ‘92

Samantha Smock ‘19

Scott Snibbe ‘87 and Ahna Girshick

Laura Solorio

Catherine Spaulding

Annual Giving

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749 (cont.)

Stifel

David Stihler ‘93 and Catherine Stihler

Vicki and Stanford Storey

Stephen Storey

Amy Strasser ‘90 and Andrew Strasser

Kelly and Todd Stratton

Frank Sung ‘70 and Robin Sung

T. Rowe Price Trust Co.

Edward Takashima ‘89 and Monica Takashima

Peter Tanner ‘89 and Jennifer Tanner

Eileen and Michael Tanner

Alice Tao

Colleen Taylor ‘04

Amelia Teta ‘26

Emory Teta ‘27

Leah and Richard Teta

Diana and Clinton Thelander

Maia Thielen

Cammy and Tim Torgenrud

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749 (cont.)

June Trachsel

Kai Tsuchitani ‘27

David Urban ‘80 and Laura Urban

Murray and Carol Walker

Jean Wang

Molly Warner

Andre Watts ‘05

Tamara and Lewis Weisblum

The Welden-Smith Family

Wetherby Asset Management & Laird Norton

Wealth Management

Christopher Wilcox

Rick Wiley and Alison Breedlove

Spencer Williams

Christina Willis-Ott ‘02 and Dan Ott

Kande Williston and Rob Sherlock

Nancy Willoughby

Temby and Lawrence Wishnak

Rory Wood and Noova Ongley

Annual contributions of all amounts to the York fund, endowed funds, and special projects provide valuable funding for the school’s priorities. This list reflects combined giving to these funds during York’s fiscal year 2025.

COMMUNITY CIRCLE - UP TO $749 (cont.)

Michael Wyman ‘68

Caroline Yoon ‘09

Jack Yost ‘14

ZAL Engineering

Jaime Zaldivar Martinez and Ashley Zaldivar

Mackenzie Zalin ‘05

Stephanie and Mark Zalin

Alexandra and Jon Zeljo

Brad Zielinski

A mixed media piece, which includes watercolor, chalk pastel, gold leaf and silver leaf plus colored pen exploring ancient cultures and religions. Charlie was the Visual Arts Department Award recipient for 2025.

Great Faerie Gale Force Wall | Charlie Hamper

Rooted at York, Soaring Beyond

Last year, we were lucky to reconnect with so many York alumni—both here on campus and in cities across the country.

In March, our team traveled to the Pacific Northwest to visit with alumni. Christine Lee ’85, a devoted York trustee, graciously hosted a Seattle gathering on March 28. The following evening, alumni met in Portland at the Teardrop Lounge. Across decades and class years, conversations flowed easily, with stories of York’s exceptional education—and many laughs about always wearing a “York Dork” title with pride—bringing everyone together.

Farther afield, alumni in New York, Colorado, and Vermont organized their own gatherings and potlucks, proving the York spirit thrives wherever Falcons land. If you’d like to bring alumni together in your area, email alumni@york.org to learn how!

On campus, we had the joy of welcoming Jacqueline Cousineau ‘03, who spoke about her journey from living in France to working as a professional dancer, and shared her remarkable short film Sameness: Magnificence.

In the spring, York’s Parent Association hosted Scott Snibbe ’87 to celebrate his new book How to Train a Happy Mind. The discussion was led by York Distinguished Scholar Brandon Whaley ’25, who had based his own research on Scott’s work (read more about York Scholars on page 11).

In May, our newly formed Black Student Union (BSU) welcomed Ben Jealous ’90 for a community evening. The BSU led a thoughtful panel, asking Ben about his book Never Forget Our People Were Always Free, his challenges and triumphs, and his favorite York memories (read more on page 7).

Each visit left our students inspired by the possibilities that come with being part of York’s alumni family. Thank you for continuing to make York special, Forever Falcons!

FY25 Alumni & Student Giving

CLASS OF ‘66

Mark Zanides

CLASS OF ‘68

Mark Farmer

Michael Wyman

CLASS OF ‘69

John Fox

Robert Holmes

Robert Meyer

CLASS OF ‘70

Frank Sung

CLASS OF ‘72

Douglas Ikemi

CLASS OF ‘74

Donald Criley

Thomas Drendel

Alison Sola

Michael Van Brunt

CLASS OF ‘75

Aviva Goldman-Lacey

Mitchell Green

Felicia Mitchell Silva

CLASS OF ‘76

Tomika Anne Dew

Megan (Criley) Doyon

Daniel Fenton

Marianne Gawain

Michael Minnis

Diana (Doyle) Van Vleck

CLASS OF ‘77

Stevens Tucker

CLASS OF ‘78

Mark Kerman

CLASS OF ‘81

Lillian Dean

CLASS OF ‘82

Eric Axelsen

Gregory Littleton

CLASS OF ‘83

Joanna Casson

Peter Meryash

CLASS OF ‘84

Catherine Dante

Nels Henderson

Kent Nybakken

Erica Olsen

CLASS OF ‘85

Adam Brodsley

Michelle Kozak

Christine Lee

CLASS OF ‘86

Timothy Ditzler

Clark Shishido

David Wahl

CLASS OF ‘87

Laura Curtis

Laura (McLeod) Friedman

Jennifer Mohlenhoff-Baggett

Scott Shapley

CLASS OF ‘88

Mark Breimhorst

Joshua Ramey-Renk

Matthew Simis

Amy (Spence) Smolen

CLASS OF ‘89

Aaron Eppler

Elun Gabriel

Jennifer Stevens

Edward Takashima

Peter Tanner

CLASS OF ‘90

Ian Martin

Amy (Steiner) Strasser

CLASS OF ‘91

Keren Dawson-Bowman

Jennifer (Hays) Gonzalez

Binzee Gonzalvo

Stephen Hartman

Patrick Jenifer

Camilla (Mateo) Mann

Eve Paretsky

Jesus Torres

CLASS OF ‘92

Janette (Ritter) Cate

Aaryn Degn Silva

Denise Estrella

Meagan (Cantley-Bishop) Henderson

Aya Ogawa

Micah Orliss

Sean O’Rourke

Zach Smith

CLASS OF ‘93

Scott Nelson Windels

Elizabeth (Ward) Pham

Shelley (Berridge) Saitowitz

David Stihler

CLASS OF ‘94

Amber Degn

CLASS OF ‘95

Clementine Bonner Klein

Wilbur Lee

CLASS OF ‘96

Valerie Hasselbach

CLASS OF ‘97

Michael Lambert

Ryan Quinnan

Sam Teixeira

CLASS OF ‘98

Adan Perez

Eric Peterson

CLASS OF ‘99

Anonymous

Emily Bradley

Douglas Learned

Katrina Learned

Kari Mansager

Laura Schwingel

Claire Shorenstein

Andrea Traum

Robert Veneman-Hughes

CLASS OF ‘00

Morgana Mongraw-Chaffin

Adam Rose

CLASS OF ‘01

Erica Lindberg

Sara (Engesser) Lukas

John Peattie

Suzanne Peng

Elizabeth Welden-Smith

CLASS OF ‘02

Anonymous

Catherine Bermudez

Colin Deeb

Irene (Bonner) Nelson

Sterling Nelson

CLASS OF ‘03

Jacqueline Cousineau

CLASS OF ‘04

Anonymous

Kirisa Gavrin

Louis Gularte

Anna Legard

Cambria Minott-Gaines

Warren Sampson

Colleen Taylor

CLASS OF ‘05

Anna Dudney Deeb

Sarah Ganzhorn

Ann Frey Kroll

Joshua Kroll

Andre Watts

Mackenzie Zalin

CLASS OF ‘06

Adrienne (Cousineau) de la Fuente

Chelsea Esterline

Chiara Giammanco MacPherson

Giordana Rock

Adrienne Rowell

CLASS OF ‘08

Blake Bennett

Carlos Jimenez

Nina Kooroshfar

Morgan Paull

Neil Shah

CLASS OF ‘09

Anonymous

Amanda Crawford

Caroline Yoon

CLASS OF ‘11

Garrett Cry

Hussein Elbakri

Iris Klotz

Teo Lamiot

Marina Nogueira

CLASS OF ‘12

Clara Cushing

Jonathan De Anda Hernandez

CLASS OF ‘13

Natasha Nogueira

CLASS OF ‘14

Mary Joplin

Scott Pirkle

Jack Yost

CLASS OF ‘15

Isabelle Pirkle

CLASS OF ‘16

Marcos Diaz-Infante

CLASS OF ‘17

Evan Hamilton

Ryan Meckel

CLASS OF ‘18

Madison Jani

Marissa Lewellen

Mason McCollum

CLASS OF ‘19

Helena Bartkowski

Samantha Smock

CLASS OF ‘21

Kayden Huffman

CLASS OF ‘22

Juliet Oliver

CLASS OF ‘24

David Oliver

CLASS OF ‘27

Kai Tsuchitani

Farewell Trustees

Ken Scates made invaluable contributions to York School during his term (plus one year) in the areas of strategic land use and as the Chair of the Buildings and Grounds Committee, Committee on Trustees and Board Secretary. During his time on the board, he put his deep working knowledge of architecture and planning to great use in the creation of a facilities analysis report and in leading multiple long-range planning discussions. His talent, shown in these documents and shared in discussions, will help keep York on track. We are grateful for Ken’s extraordinary engagement and wish him all the best in his retirement.

Joining the board in 2021, Paul Matsui ‘89 served as the Chair of the Audit Committee, as well as serving on the Strategic Design & Admissions and Marketing Committees. As the founder and principal of The Antigrav Group and with years of experience in strategic planning and analytics, he delivered tremendous insight, focus, and guidance to York. We thank him for this and the special role he played in hosting a successful East Coast York alumni gathering during his tenure.

Norelle Boyce served two terms, culminating in her position as Board Chair. In addition, she brought energy, ideas, and great enthusiasm to her service on the Philanthropy and Community Partnerships, Finance, 100 Acres, Falcon Experience, and the Support to Head of School Committees. Norelle is the parent of a current York student (Andrew ‘28) and alumna (Amanda ‘22). Her deep industry experience as owner of VisionSoft Inc. coupled with her passion for excellence in education shown in her tireless dedication to the school.

Welcome, New Trustee

Hussein Elbakri, ‘11 was born in Sanaa, Yemen and grew up in Cairo, Egypt; Buffalo, New York; and Monterey, CA. Following his time at York, he graduated from Columbia University and Harvard Law School. He currently works as a litigation senior associate at a law firm in New York City. In his free time, Hussein enjoys strength training, reading, and exploring new cities with friends and family.

2024-2025 Board of Trustees

Officers

Norelle Boyce

Chair

Mark Kerman ‘78

Rich

Secretary

Trustees

Brenda

Alexa Arango-Cuevas ’25

Student Representative

Williston Faculty Representative

**Trustee Emeritus *Ex-Officio

Faculty and Trustee Giving

Faculty

Michael Borrowman

Michelle

Trustee

Danielle McShane ‘99

Heather

Edward Takashima ‘89

Steven

Jaime Zaldivar

*Ex-Officio

**Emeritus

Scot

Kim

Photo from York’s production of Les Miserables. Photo by Grace Khieu.

Welcome, New Faculty and Staff

Sitem Aytar joins us as York’s Communications and Marketing Manager after serving as the communications and public relations officer for the Salinas Union High School District, where she led all districtwide commucations, marketing and public relations efforts across 13 school sites. Her background includes experience in both higher education and county-level education communications. In her free time, she enjoys travleing, reading science fiction, playing the Sims, researching graduate programs and making the most of her Disneyland annual pass.

Spencer Broek joins York as Director of Facilities at York School, with a dedication to creating well-maintained, efficient environments that support positive experiences for students, staff, and visitors. Spencer’s hands-on approach and extensive knowledge across building systems, preventive maintenance, and sustainable practices are complemented by his commitment to transparency. He believes in keeping the school community informed about facilities projects and initiatives, fostering a greater appreciation for the role of facilities in campus life.

Irma De La Cruz is a dedicated Payroll and Benefits Administrator with nine years of experience in payroll and benefits management, along with solid support of HR functions. Her enthusiasm for engaging with employees at all levels helps build strong relationships—she listens attentively, answers questions with clarity, and ensures compensation and benefits processes are handled smoothly and transparently. Armed with extensive knowledge of multiple payroll and benefits systems, Irma consistently delivers accurate and compliant administration.

Jessie Fontana-Maisel joins us as York’s new Director of College Counseling or after four years working in admissions and recruitment for her alma mater, Occidental College, where she planned recruitment events and virtual programming, and led the students worker team. Before working in higher education, she worked in museums and holds a master’s degree in art history. Originally from Marin County, Jessie is thrilled to be back in a coastal community. She is grounded by humor, gluten free pastries, and a healthy dose of reality television.

Grace Khieu is a 2016 York Alum. A different life ago when not always comfortable with her own voice, Grace took social media platforms by storm, faced down the disquieting voice on one shoulder (knocked it off, actually) and has continued finding, using, and helping others with her voice and own experiences. We are thrilled to welcome Grace to her new role as Director of Technology.

Dana Larson joins us as York’s Assistant Head of School. She grew up in Southern California and recently relocated to the Bay Area from Las Vegas, where she lived for 20 years after completing her master’s program in English literature at the Univesity of Las Vegas Nevada. She most recently served as the Upper School Director for The Meadows School, a prekindergarten–12 grade independent school. Dana has three grown children, and is happy to be back on the West Coast.

Matt Micciche is York’s new Head of School—marking 20 years in the role, having most recently served in that capacity at Lancaster Country Day School in Pennsylvania. Prior to that role, Matt was the Head of Friends School in Baltimore from 2005–2021. Throughout his time as a head, Matt has remained an active English teacher. Originally from Boston, Matt holds a bachelor’s from Amherst College and a master’s in education from Tufts University and a master’s in English from Middlebury College.

York’s new Spanish teacher, Rita Mora, holds a Master of Arts in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish literature and culture, and an Associate of Arts in arts and humanities. Rita most recently served as an Academic Language Development (ALD) teacher at Washington Middle School. From 2022 to 2024, she taught Spanish to middle school students at Stevenson School in Pebble Beach, CA.

Calvin Toon is excited to bring his experience to humanities classes at York. Most recently, Calvin taught English and English language development in South Monterey County. Calvin graduated with a Bachelor of Art in literature from San Francisco State University before moving to Southern California, where he received his master’s in linguistics from California State University Long Beach. Calvin is often found hiking or reading with his cat, Hamlet.

Victoria Waugh-Reed brings 26 years of experience in student mental health and wellness to her role as School Counselor at York. She’s provided and coordinated school mental health and wellness initiatives at the school, district, state, and national levels. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership and a master’s in counseling and guidance. Victoria is passionate about helping students and school communities thrive, and brings a deep appreciation for diverse needs and strengths of the people she serves.

Gabriella Welch will serve as York’s Director of Academic Support. She holds a Bachelor of Science in education, a Master of Science in curriculum and instruction with a specialty in curriculum design, and a post-graduate certification in education and school management. Previously, she has been a lead math and science teacher, as well as a learning specialist. She has dedicated her career to helping students with neurodivergence and strives to make learning safe, fun, and accessible for every student.

Farewell to Faculty

Kevin Brookhouser

Kathryn Brewer

Lurena Brubaker

Terry Cash

Janette Cate ‘92

Candi Deschamps

Anna Faith

Key Dean Partlow

Kevin Brookhouser came to York in 2002 as an English teacher but his constant innovation led to the 20% Project, Code+Design, Technological Entrepreneurialism, bringing TEDxYorkSchool to life in 2015, and so many student-led projects in the community! He mentored and advocated for me as a student and professional (over 11 years!). I will miss his leadership but will cherish everything he’s taught me.

Grace Khieu ‘16, Director of Technology

Doug
Maia Thielen
Jon Zeljo

Grandparents and Friends of York Day

On November 26, 2024, York joyfully welcomed grandparents and friends of York to campus for a day of connection and celebration with their students. Guests began the morning with warm refreshments before heading to the Chapel for the day’s program.

They were greeted by our Head of School, followed by a beautiful musical performance from the Chamber Choir. Connie Hays, a proud grandparent to Gabe ’27 and parent of alumna Jennifer ’91, shared a heartfelt reflection on what York has meant to her family.

Inspired by Connie’s words, our guests took part in a StoryCorps activity, sharing personal histories and answering questions with their students—an experience that brought them closer together.

The day concluded in the Commons, where everyone enjoyed a lively performance by the Jazz Band and captured special moments with their students—a wonderful day to create memories.

Parent Giving

CLASS OF ‘25

Julie and Christopher Barlow

Damon Campbell and Gina Michaels

Alita Kavalauskas

Zhichao Liu and Yang Yang

Jessamin and Richard Rega

Larry Steiner

David Stihler ’93 and Catherine Stihler

Edward Takashima ’89 and Monica Takashima

Meredith and Thomas Webster

CLASS OF ‘26

Sandra and Tavo Alaniz

Robin and Andrew Clarke

Erin and Trevor Fogg

Thaddeus Hoffmeister and Alea Brown-Hoffmeister

Kristen and Jos Huston

Cecilia and Gerald Kennedy

Wilbur Lee ’95 and Cordelia Lee

Chae Lee and Yunju Baik

Joaquin Robles and Lily Parra

Juan Silva-Ventura and Rosa Audelo-Sandoval

Aga and Graham Simpson

Leah and Richard Teta

Heather and Michael Winter

Rory Wood and Noova Ongley

Grandparent Giving

David Aragon

Jennifer and Daniel Fessler

Ginny and Keith Fogg

Patricia Gillespie

Beverly Lannquist Hamilton

Constance Hays

Mary Johnson

Lisa and Alan Kanter

Mimi Lakind

Dottie and Clyde Roberson

Dianne and Michael Silva

David Stihler

Stephen Storey

Alice Tao

Nancy Willoughby

CLASS OF ‘27

Colleen Ayotte

Patricia and Matt Bischoff

Nathanial Brown and Yana Polyakova

David Brunicardi and Caryn Marooney

Sung Shim Choi

Jessica and Celso Cruz

Jill and Matthew Ellis

Jennifer Gonzalez ’91 and Mike Gonzalez

Jenny and Gregg Kanter

Lynn and Sean Kragelund

Nicole Moore

Cindy and Seamas Murphy

Blanca Navarro and Monika Macias

Stephanie and Peter Oshman

Martine and Alan Scott

Catherine Spaulding

Charles Shivers and Krista Ostoich

Anthony Stratakos and Chryssa Maragos

Leah and Richard Teta

Judy and Wayne Tsuchitani

Lewis Weisblum and Tamara Botkin

Ali and Jon Zeljo

CLASS OF ‘28

Sherri Menor-Albitar and Moe Albitar

Norelle and Rob Boyce

Jill and Matthew Ellis

Christina and John Epega

Mandy and Gabriel Georis

Nicolette Daly Guichet and Michael Guichet

Dan Kurz and Katharine Daniels Kurz

Audrey and Alejandro Lorca

Kristen and Duncan Maitland

Kelly and Todd Stratton

Robert Weil and Meredith Haberfeld

Ricky Wiley and Alison Breedlove

Ali and Jon Zeljo

CLASS OF ‘29

Catherine Bacasen

Amanda and Mark Jones

Ashley and Joseph Kinney

Youngju Koo and Yangmo Koo

Ian Martin ‘90 and Vibeke Norgaard

Nicole and Hyatt Moore

Malinda DeRouen Mueller and Doulgas Mueller

Stephanie and Peter Oshman

Jacqualine Riechers

Robert Weil and Meredith Haberfeld

Nicholas Sturch is not just a living legend; his commitment to intellectual rigor is synonymous with a York education. Simply put, I wouldn’t be where I am today without his guidance and inspiration, so that’s why I continue to give in his honor.

In my early years at York it was exciting to be one of the few of us who got together and talked about what the school should try to do. Later, as more and more students and teachers came and went, it was a pleasure to get to know so many intelligent and good people. I am happy to be able to help in my small way to continue to make it possible for others to have such experiences as I was fortunate enough to have.

Mackenzie Zalin ‘05

A Tradition of Giving: Nicholas Sturch

At York, generosity is a tradition—and no one lives that spirit more fully than Nicholas Sturch. For 45 years, he was a beloved teacher who inspired students in the classroom, and for 55 years he’s been a dedicated philanthropist, giving both his heart and his support to York. In many ways, Nicholas and York are inseparable. In recognition of his extraordinary commitment, Nicholas was named York’s Distinguished Agency Honoree for National Philanthropy Day 2024. This honor celebrates not only his remarkable record of giving, but also the example he sets for our entire community, showing that one person’s dedication can ripple across generations.

From strengthening the endowment, to fueling today’s needs through the Annual Fund, to securing the future through the Valentine Legacy Society, Nicholas is committed to supporting York in every way.

Nicholas shows us that giving is not just about writing a check, but about the joy of being a part of something bigger and helping the next generation soar.

Heritage of Generosity

York School’s Cumulative Giving Society

$1,000,000 and Above

Anonymous

William Atwood

Dr. Peggy Downes Baskin

William McCaskey Chapman and Adaline Dinsmore Chapman Foundation

Maurine Church Coburn Foundation

Community Foundation for Monterey County

Willametta K. Day Foundation

David and Lucile Packard Foundation

The Estate of James Valentine

$500,000 -$999,999

Anonymous (2)

Constance H. Bishop Foundation

Sheron and Robert Long

Lou Lozano and Christina Courcier

Karen and Dave Rossum

$250,000 - $499,999

Anonymous

The Estate of Sharon Damon

Daniel Fenton ’76 and Denise Fenton

Gloria and Lewis Fenton

Marianne Gawain ‘76

Jeanne and Samuel Gesumaria

Beverly and Lyman Hamilton

The Nancy Eccles and Homer M. Hayward Family Foundation

Grover Hermann Foundation

Betty and Jim Kasson

Royal Little Family Foundation

Galen Lowe ‘81

Leonard H. McIntosh Foundation

Monterey County Gives!

Monterey Peninsula Foundation

Morgan Stanley Global Impact

Funding Trust

Corie and Fane Opperman

Nicholas Sturch

Marsha McMahan Zelus

$100,000 - $249,000

Anonymous

Georgeann and Larry Anderson

Susan Aqeel

Margaret Pardee Bates

The Bates Family

Benevity Community Impact Fund

Nancy Benham

Bishop Water Company

Norelle and Rob Boyce

Jason Burnett ’94 and Melissa Burnett

Linda and Randall Charles

Agnes Chien and Howard Nelson

Elizabeth Coats

S.H. Cowell Foundation

Mary Kay Higgins Crockett

Iris and Stephen Dart

Justin Dart Family Foundation

The Dunspaugh-Dalton Foundation

Firestone Foundation

Nancy and William Fisher

Edward E. Ford Foundation

Michael Frumkin and Christina Falco

Frumkin Falco Family Foundation

Gibson Family Foundation

Chuck Harmon and Elizabeth Miles

William Randolph Hearst Foundation

Elizabeth and Joseph W. Heston

W.M. Keck Foundation

Mark Kerman ‘78

Christine Lee ’85 and Eric Vallières

Pam and Gifford Lehman

Louis Lozano and Christina Courcier

Catherine L. & Robert O. McMahan Foundation

Estate of Donalida Merillat

Grace and Dick Merrill

David Packard

Linda and Charlie Page

Pebble Beach Company Foundation

Joan Riggs

Stephen Schulte and Margaret Cook Schulte

Barnet J. Segal Charitable Trust

Doug Smith

$100,000 - $249,000 (cont.)

Hugh Stuart Center Charitable Trust

The Talbott Foundation

VisionSoft, Inc.

Wallace Foundation

Melanie Kett Wirtanen and Alan Wirtanen

$50,000 - $99,999

Anonymous (2)

Thomas Adcock ‘89

Applied Materials Foundation

AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am Youth Fund

Damien Bates ’67 and Vanessa Bates

Big Sur Marathon Foundation

Marilyn and Andrew Calciano

Eileen and Art Chatoff

Bruce Copeland ’79 and Lisa Copeland

Estate of Lowel Figen

Kate and A. Brooks Firestone

John Fox ’69 and Donna Fox

Ellen and Paul Gaucher

Edythe and Homer Heald

Hoge, Fenton, Jones and Appel

Independence Foundation

Ralph Knox Foundation

Anthony Lombardo ’75 and Sue Snow

Patricia Lott

William McCullough

Mericos Foundation

Eve and Basil Mills Family

Janet Morris

Bill Nicholson

Susanne Obaid

Dwight Opperman

Nancy Buck Ransom Foundation

Payette River Foundation

Prudential Foundation Matching Gifts Program

Cory Ray and Craig Rowell

Gary Ray and Katy Castagna

Marjorie Schulte

Matt and Kirsti Scott

$50,000 - $99,999

William and Kathy Sharpe

Matthew Simis ’88 and Michael Gray

William Smith ‘74

Eileen and Michael Tanner

Bruce Taylor ’74 and Linda Taylor

Steven Webster

Feixiang Wei and Xuemei Liu

Carol and Phillip Wilhelm

$25,000 - $49,999

Anonymous (4)

Mary Adams

Jayanti and Stephen Addleman

Patrice Ash

Kennon and Roger Bowen

Nancy Burnett

Shuqi Cai and Yuefang Chen

Don Chapin Company, Inc.

Mark Chesebro and Caroline Mitchel

Linda and Craig Christensen

E.L. Cord Foundation

Robert Davies and Diane

Church Davies

Bill and Nancy Doolittle

Martha Drake

Thomas Drendel ’74 and Terrel Drendel

Vikram Duvvoori and Sumana Reddy

Jeanine Dyer

Kristine Edmunds

Episcopal Diocese of El Camino Real

Katherine and Robert Ernst III

E-Scrip

Lowry Fenton and Gail Greely

Fidelity Charitable Donor Advised Funds

Leonard Firestone

W. Edgar Gallway

Corinne and Morgan Gilman

Marie (Bryant) Glavin ’72 and Tom Glavin

Terry and Edgar Haber

Anne Hammond

Fredric Hartzell and Janet Wilson

HGHB Architects

$25,000 - $49,999

Hoppin Foundation

Gordon Howie and Wilma Reichard

HSBC

Mildred Hitchcock Huff Charitable Trust

Dagmar and James Huffman

Ann Jackson Family Foundation

Lisa and Steve John

Frank Klotz

Douglas C. Lee

Lee and John MacWilliams

Yasuko Matsui

Microsoft Matching Gifts Program

National Philanthropic Trust

Fana and Doug Oldfield

Otter Cove Foundation

Henrietta Pearce

Marcia and Don Pompan

Robert Poulin ’85 and Catherine Poulin

Renaissance Charitable Foundation Inc.

Rotary Club of Monterey

Edwin K.S. Ryu ’69 and Julie Satake Ryu

Kathleen and Mike Scarr

Charles Schwab Corporation Foundation

Jill and Patrick Sherwood

Clark Shishido ‘86

Jon Smock and Cynthia Schroeder

Lloyd Tabb and Lisa Williams

Lawrence Tartaglino Union Bank

Wells Fargo Foundation Educational Matching Gift Program

E.L. Wiegand Foundation Sarcophagal

Urban Self Portrait | Yolanda C

One of Yolanda’s great skills is her ability to shift from one medium to another, often in the same piece, and create a seamless blend. In this example, She combines acrylic paint with charcoal for a marvelously lose effect when jumping from black and white to color.

Fidelis Society

50+ YEARS

Nicholas Sturch (56)

20 – 49 YEARS

Big Sur Marathon Foundation (27)

Elizabeth Boone Hogen (20)

Michael and Merritt Borrowman (25)

Kevin and Beth Brookhouser (22)

Gary Byrd and Gillian Rodgers-Byrd (25)

William McCaskey Chapman and Adaline Dinsmore

Chapman Foundation (40)

Agnes Chien and Howard Nelson (27)

Carl Christensen and Jo Ann Novoson (27)

Mary Kay Higgins Crockett (32)

Keren Dawson-Bowman ‘91 (28)

Tomika Anne Dew ‘76 and Paul Thimm (21)

Alice and Richard Dixon (27)

Bill and Nancy Doolittle (28)

Pam Durkee (27)

Mark Farmer ‘68 and Jean Farmer (23)

Daniel Fenton ‘76 and Denise Fenton (29)

Eric Fink (30)

Susan and Frank Ganzhorn (24)

Jeanne and Edward Gavrin (26)

Marianne Gawain ‘76 (26)

Teena Gruman (21)

Elizabeth and Joseph W. Heston (26)

Peter Hiller and Celeste Williams (26)

Dagmar and James Huffman (22)

Scot and Sylvia Johnson (23)

Mark Kerman ‘78 (28)

Kim Kiest (24)

Douglas C. Lee (23)

Royal Little Family Foundation (28)

Galen Lowe ‘81 (28)

Vicki and Albert Norman (20)

Bette H. Nybakken (42)

Fana and Doug Oldfield (20)

Erica Olsen ‘84 (21)

Corie and Fane Opperman (28)

Eve Paretsky ‘91 and Karl Knaub (20)

Donald Peattie and Lise Peterson (28)

Pebble Beach Company Foundation (22)

Steve Peters and Kristan Long (30)

Michael Peterson ‘03 (20)

Cory Ray and Craig Rowell (20)

20 – 49 YEARS (cont.)

Meryl and Stewart Robertson (21)

Adam Rose ‘00 (20)

Tom and Edna Sanchez (29)

Matthew Simis ‘88 and Michael Gray (33)

Scott Snibbe ‘87 and Ahna Girshick (22)

Laura Solorio (23)

Frank Sung ‘70 and Robin Sung (21)

Eileen and Michael Tanner (35)

Cammy and Tim Torgenrud (29)

June Trachsel (33)

Temby and Lawrence Wishnak (23)

Marsha McMahan Zelus (34)

15 – 19 YEARS

Mary Adams (15)

Michael Anderson ‘03 and Ashleigh Anderson ‘04 (17)

Anonymous - 2 (15)

Anonymous (17)

Eric Axelsen ‘82 and Sjoukje Axelsen (17)

The Bates Family (15)

Pamela Clemens (17)

Shirley Coly (15)

Jacqueline Cousineau ‘03 (15)

Adrienne de la Fuente ‘06 and Dave de la Fuente (17)

Colin Deeb ‘02 (16)

Aaryn Degn Silva ‘92 and Eugene Silva (19)

Thomas Drendel ‘74 and Terrel Drendel (16)

Anna Dudney Deeb ‘05 and Nic Deeb (19)

Kristine Edmunds (19)

Ann Frey Kroll ‘05 and Joshua Kroll ‘05 (17)

Jeanne and Samuel Gesumaria (17)

Chiara Giammanco MacPherson ‘06 (17)

Binzee Gonzalvo ‘91 and Chiharu Noguchi (18)

Brian Guest ‘09 (16)

Nancy Harray (19)

Samuel Hiller ‘04 (19)

Jacob Hiller ‘06 (19)

Elizabeth and Hans Jannasch (17)

Michael Lambert ‘97 and Katherine Lambert (15)

Christine Lee ‘85 and Eric Vallières (15)

Sheron and Robert Long (16)

Sara Lukas ‘01 and David Lukas (19)

Lori Luzader (15)

Gerard and Kristina Martin (19)

Peter Meryash ‘83 (19)

Robert Meyer ‘69 and Kathleen Harner (19)

Fidelis Society

15 – 19 YEARS (cont.)

Natasha Nogueira ‘13 (17)

Marina Nogueira ‘11 (17)

Arik Olson ‘90 (17)

Sean O’Rourke ‘92 (15)

Analynn and David Patterson (15)

John Peattie ‘01 (19)

Adan Perez ‘98 (18)

Elizabeth (Ward) Pham ‘93 and Khanh Pham (19)

Marcia and Don Pompan (16)

Giordana Rock ‘06 (17)

Kathleen and Mike Scarr (17)

Matt and Kirsti Scott (17)

Melissa Smith ‘90 and Robert Hill (15)

Lawrence Tartaglino (17)

Jesus Torres ‘91 (17)

Diana Van Vleck ‘76 and Jon Van Vleck (19)

Kande Williston and Rob Sherlock (19)

Nancy Willoughby (16)

Michael Wyman ‘68 (19)

Connie and Graham Yost (15)

Mackenzie Zalin ‘05 (19)

Stephanie and Mark Zalin (24)

10 – 14 YEARS

Benevity Community Impact Fund (11)

Catherine Bermudez ‘02 and Elias Bermudez (12)

Maren Christensen ‘02 (12)

Laura Curtis ‘87 (12)

Amber Degn ‘94 and Thomas Denenberg (13)

Frumkin Falco Family Foundation (10)

Michael Frumkin and Christina Falco (10)

Donald and Esther Goodhue (12)

Rich Hamilton and Debra Schadeck (13)

Jeff Hanna and Kakani Young (11)

Ann and Joseph Hasselbach (13)

Valerie Hasselbach ‘96 (12)

Meagan Henderson ‘92 and Matthew Henderson (12)

Blythe and Peter Kieffer (14)

Teo Lamiot ’11 (14)

Leonard Laub and Yvonne Ascher (13)

Sharon Lu ‘92 and Matt Morris (14)

Audrey Manganaro ‘04 (12)

Paul Matsui ‘89 and Jen Oullette (14)

Michael Minnis ‘76 and Patricia Minnis (13)

Morgana Mongraw-Chaffin ‘00 and Daniel Montgomery (14)

10 – 14 YEARS (cont.)

Sterling Nelson ‘02 and Irene Nelson ‘02 (13)

Scott Nelson Windels ‘93 and Sarah Windels (10)

Aya Ogawa ‘92 and Irwin Chen (10)

Jennifer and Javier Ortiz (10)

Suzanne Peng ’01 (10)

Andrea and George Sanico (14)

Clark Shishido ‘86 (13)

Amy Smolen ‘88 and David Smolen (11)

Peter Tanner ‘89 and Jennifer Tanner (12)

Alice Tao (11)

Elizabeth Welden-Smith ‘01 (14)

Caroline Yoon ‘09 (12)

Mark Zanides ‘66 and Yamel Zanides (13)

5 -9 YEARS

Mary Kay Acquazzino (5)

Georgeann and Larry Anderson (5)

The L/G Anderson Family Foundation (5)

William Atwood (8)

Colleen and John Bailey (6)

Black Bennett ’08 (6)

Patricia and Larry Bernstein (5)

Norelle and Rob Boyce (7)

Nathaniel Brown and Yana Polyakova (7)

Bodhi Brunings ’24 (5)

Damon Campbell and Gina Michaels (5)

Joanna Casson ’83 (5)

Eileen and Art Chatoff (5)

The Chatoff Family Foundation (5)

Timothy Ditzler ‘86 and Lynn Ditzler (8)

Francis Duda and Hilary Traynor-Duda (5)

Jennifer Eskenazi ’96 and Jack Eskenazi (5)

Chelsea Esterline ‘06 (8)

Lowry Fenton ’72 and Gail Greely (5)

Ellen and Paul Gaucher (9)

Crispina and Sol Gonzalvo (8)

Peter Gray and Jennifer Golden (5)

Alix Guyot ’05 (5)

Debra Hale and Andrew Ward (8)

Beverly Lannquist Hamilton (5)

Walter Howe ’98 and Christina Van Vert (5)

Douglas Ikemi ’72 (5)

Patrick Jenifer ‘91 (8)

Cecile and John Joyner (9)

Lynn and Sean Kragelund (7)

Pam and Gifford Lehman (9)

5 -9 YEARS (cont.)

Nancy and Robert Ley (7)

Carol Lowrey (5)

Benjamin Morgan ‘90 (9)

David Oliver ’24 (5)

Heather and Michael Oliver (8)

Juliet Oliver ’22 (5)

Dean Partlow and Lisa Marrack (6)

Morgan Paull ’08 (6)

Eric Peterson ‘98 (8)

Ryan Quinnan ‘97 (8)

Dottie and Clyde Roberson (5)

Karen and Dave Rossum (8)

Adrienne Rowell ’06 (5)

Ken Scates and Suzanne Gibson (5)

Wendy and Andrew Schmidt (8)

Virginia and Thomas Scott (6)

Stephen Storey (8)

Jean Wang (8)

Chris Wilcox (9)

Spencer Williams (7)

Alexandra and Jon Zeljo (5)

Thanks for helping us raise

$216,686.12!

MCGives!

We are profoundly grateful for the tremendous support of MCGives! Your generosity with our Big Idea of, The Key to Our Future, was our most successful MCGives! to date raising $216,686.12. Leading the way with an incredible challenge gift were a grateful York parent, the Brunicardi Family, and our Board Chair, Mark Kerman ’78. At York School, we empower our students to explore their intellect, ask bold questions, and engage in meaningful conversations. Through your support, they discover their passions, their potential, and themselves—emerging as the bright minds who will shape our world. Thank you for believing in them and for investing in their journey toward becoming the key to our future.

Valentine Legacy Society

Anonymous

Colleen and John Bailey

Estate of Robert P. Balles

Estate of Dr. Peggy Downes Baskin

Estate of Margaret Pardee Bates

Estate of Nancy Benham

Kennon and Roger Bowen

Patrick Brent

Beth and Kevin Brookhouser

Jason Burnett ’94 and Melissa Burnett

Agnes Chien

Marian and Gordon Clemens

Shirley Coly

Estate of Mary Kay Higgins Crockett

Jacqualine Cruz

Estate of Sharon Damon

Tomika Anne Dew ‘76

Bill and Nancy Doolittle

Kristine Edmunds

Estate of Lewis Fenton

Estate of Lowel Figen

Nancy and William Fisher

John Fox ’69 and Donna Fox

Jackie and Philip Frey

Ellen and Paul Gaucher

Jeanne and Samuel Gesumaria

Estate of Cecilia Graham

Hector Grijalva

Susie and Rob Gularte

Sherrie Gutierrez ‘96

Debra Hale and Andrew Ward

Estate of Anne Hammond

Chuck Harmon and Elizabeth Miles

Estate of Monte Harrington

Estate of Homer L. Heald

Elizabeth and Joseph W. Heston

Joseph Heston ’04 and Kathryn Heston

Estate of The Reverend David S. Hill

Estate of Frederick Hofsas

Estate of Edda Sislain Kaudy

Blythe and Peter Kieffer

Leonard N. Laub and Yvonne Ascher

Douglas C. Lee

Pam and Gifford Lehman

Carol Lowrey

Estate of Lloyd Lowrey, Jr.

Mason McCollum ‘18

Estate of William H. McCullough

Estate of Donalinda Merilat

Stephen Meyer ’73 and Teri Meyer

Estate of Norman William Miller

Benjamin Morgan ‘90

Estate of Margaret L. Musser

Mark Myers ’73 and Barbara Myers

Margarite and Werner Papenhoefer

Eve Paretsky ’91 and Karl Knaub

Jane Paulsen

Estate of Henrietta Pearce

Estate of Stanley Pearce

Estate of Robert S. Ray

Stephanie Regevig and Wes Scheibly

Estate of J. Jackson Riggs

Karen and David Rossum

Edwin K.S. Ry ’69 and Julie Satake Ryu

Matthew Simis ’88 and Michael Gray

Estate of Pauline S. Sinclair

Christine Sinnott

Estate of William Smith ‘74

Nicholas Sturch

Lawrence Tartaglino

Estate of James Valentine

Steven Webster

Julia Wedekind

Jamilynn and Mark Willaman

Nelly and Lance Wright

Valentine Legacy Society Luncheon

This past Valentine’s Day, our community gathered for a heartfelt luncheon honoring the enduring legacy of James Valentine, the namesake of our school’s legacy society. The event brought together longtime friends of the school and those just beginning to explore how their support might shape its future.

Held in the warm spirit of the day, the luncheon celebrated the lasting impact of philanthropy on generations of students. Our distinguished speakers at the luncheon, Beth and Joe Heston, shared what they feel are the core values that have guided our school

Michelle Lange, Assistant Director of Philanthropy | Annual Giving, Operations, Grants, & Stewardship

since its earliest days. They believe that academic excellence, character and respect, and the spirit of the

York School is a gem and deserves both our current support and our longer-term support.
Joe Heston

school (or the “Secret Sauce,” which is a phrase Joe coined while serving on the Board of Trustees) show how each value continues to

shape the student experience and reflects on why they have chosen to include York School in their estate plan. Guests were reminded that James Valentine’s vision laid the foundation for the intellectual curiosity, integrity, and vibrant community life that define our school today.

It was a meaningful afternoon of shared stories and joyful connection—a celebration of the enduring values that both inspire and prepare a diverse community of independent thinkers who will shape the future.

Gifts to Endowment

Gifts to York’s endowment ensure long-term support for major priorities like tuition assistance and funding for faculty. This list includes York’s established funds and the donors who contributed in fiscal year 2024-2025.

Aqeel Family Financial Aid Endowment

Atwood Family Endowment

Atwood Steamship Endowment

Peggy Downes Baskin Endowment for Financial Aid

Margaret Pardee Bates Endowment for Financial Aid

Father Emod Brunner Scholarship Fund

The William McCaskey Chapman and Adaline Dinsmore Chapman Foundation Endowed Fund

Maurine Church Coburn Foundation Endowed Fund

Alfred Diaz-Infante Endowment for Financial Aid

Marcos Diaz-Infante ‘16

Joanne Doyle Scholarship Fund

Diana Van Vleck ’76 and Jon Van Vleck

Norman R. Ehmann Scholarship Fund

Richard D. Enemark Endowed Scholarship

Janet Lynn Fisher ‘74 Memorial Financial Aid Endowment

W. Edward Gallway Scholarship Fund

Howard Goodkin Scholarship

Jeanne and Samual Gesumaria Sheron and Robert Long

Chuck Harmon and Elizabeth Miles Financial Aid Endowment

Helena Bartkowski ‘19

The William Randolp Heart Foundation Endowed Scholarship

Lt. Kylan Jones Huffman ‘90 Scholarship

W.M. Keck Foundation Endowed Scholarship

Henry M. Lattlefield Scholarship Fund

Catherine L. and Robert O. McMahan Foundation Endowment Fund

Marsha McMahan Zelus

Mericos Foundation Endowed Student Aid Fund

Donalida Merillat Endowment Fund

William Pomeroy Memorial Scholarship Fund

John Pomeroy and Heather McKinney

Philip H. Rhinelander Fund

Marshall Stell, Sr. Endowment Scholarship Fund

Nicholas Sturch Endowment for Financial Aid

Irene Nelson ’02 and Sterling Nelson ‘02

Dewitt Wallace Reader’s Digest Foundation Financial Aid Fund

Karen Weitzman Scholarship Fund

York School Financial Aid Endowment

Endowed Fund for Faculty Support

The Roger Bowen Endowment Fund for Faculty Support

York School Faculty Support Endowment

Marissa Lewellen ‘18

Endowed Fund for Athletic Excellence

The York Cup Endowment

Endowed Fun for Campus Maintenance

Community Partners

INSPIRATION CIRCLE

$25,000 AND ABOVE

The William McCaskey Chapman and Adaline Dinsmore

Chapman Foundation

Community Foundation for Monterey County

The Nancy Eccles and Homer M. Hayward

Family Foundation

Payette River Foundation

Charles Schwab Corporation Foundation

EXCELLENCE CIRCLE

$12,000 - $24,999

Fidelity Charitable Donor Advised Funds

Pebble Beach Company Foundation

Renaissance Charitable Foundation, Inc.

VisionSoft, Inc.

SHIELD CIRCLE

$6,000 - $11,999

Benevity Community Impact Fund

Capital Group – American Funds

National Philanthropic Trust

PEREGRINE CIRCLE

$3,000 - $5,999

American Endowment Foundation

Big Sur Marathon Foundation

Morgan Stanley GIFT

Royal Little Family Foundation

Vanguard Charitable

Gifts in Kind

Norelle and Rob Boyce

DMT Imaging

Diana Godwin

Jeffrey Hanna and Kakani Young

Larissa and Edward Isabella

Jenny and Gregg Kanter

Ian Martin Photography

LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

$1,500 - $2,999

American Express Give2Gether Team

Apple Matching Gift Program

RED AND BLACK CIRCLE

$750 - $1,499

Driscoll’s

Frumkin Falco Family Foundation

Monterey Bay Area Scent Work Club, Inc.

Pacific Valley Bank

COMMUNITY CIRCLE UP TO $749

The L/G Anderson Family Foundation

DAFgiving360

Google Gift Matching Program

Johnson & Johnson

Cecilia Kennedy Insurance Agency

Pescadero Inc DBA Barmel

Salesforce, Inc.

Satake Ryu Family Fund of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation

Stifel

T. Rowe Price Trust Co.

Wetherby Asset Management & Laird Norton

Wealth Management

ZAL Engineering

Mountain Mike’s

Heather and Michael Oliver

Warren Sampson ’04

Larry Steiner

Celeste Wahl

Denise Wood

In Memoriam

ROBERT P. BALLES | 1939 - 2024

Robert “Bob” P. Balles was a relatively reserved and quiet gentleman who adhered to a thrifty and frugal lifestyle, which he attributed to the mentoring of his father, who also shaped Bob’s business and investment strategies. During his lifetime, most of his philanthropic generosity was focused on academic excellence awards for high school and college students, especially in mathematics. In 2015, Robert Balles established the R.P Balles York School Mathematics Scholars Awards which recognizes two York seniors for their achievements in mathematics. In his passing, Bob ensured that York would be able to continue with these prestigious awards by including the school in his estate plans.

MARY KAY HIGGINS CROCKETT | 1930 - 2024

Mary Kay was a woman of extraordinary vision and unwavering generosity. Her connection to York spanned over 40 years, including more than 25 years as a dedicated member of the Board of Trustees. She was drawn to York for its academic excellence and its mission to be a school for all, embodying those values in everything she did. To those who knew her, Mary Kay was the epitome of positivity—a kind and committed trustee, always asking, “How can I help?”

Her impact extended far beyond York. Mary Kay was a trailblazer for women, achieving many firsts in her career, including becoming the first female stockbroker hired by Merrill Lynch. She arrived in Carmel in 1982, quickly immersing herself in philanthropic and leadership roles that enriched the community. A founding member of the Women’s Leadership Council Advisory Committee, she was also the first recipient of the CSUMB Woman of Distinction Award in 2017, honoring her lifelong advocacy for women and her inspirational leadership.

Mary Kay’s legacy at York and in the larger community is defined by her generosity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to empowering others. We are profoundly grateful for the positive impact she had on countless lives.

Mary Kay was truly one of a kind. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered as a remarkable friend, mentor, and champion for all.

JIM TUNNEY | 1929 - 2024

Jim Tunney was a York trustee emeritus and former interim Head of School. Jim had a great passion for York. In addition to the academic opportunities (which he believed are the best), he commented on the York ethos. Jim believed that York develops caring individuals, mentors, and role models.

Jim dedicated over 10 years of service to York’s Board of Trustees, providing steadfast support and thoughtful guidance. In addition to his impactful time at York, Jim was a legendary NFL referee and a longtime sports columnist for the Monterey Herald.

Memorial Gifts

PEGGY DOWNES BASKIN

Cammy and Tim Torgenrud

LESLIE BREEDLOVE-LYONS ‘95

Clementine Bonner Klein ’95 and John Klein

JAMES COOK ‘69

Robert Meyer ’69 and Kathleen Harner

MARY KAY HIGGINS CROCKETT

Kristine Edmunds

Bishop Mary Gray-Reeves

Grace Merrill

Nicholas Sturch

ALFRED DIAZ-INFANTE

Marcos Diaz-Infante ‘16

EVELIA DIAZ-INFANTE

York School Board of Trustees

PETER GENAUER

Rebecca Genauer ‘04

SUSAN KUO

Mother of Belle Smith

Mary Kay Acquazzino

LT. KYLAN JONES-HUFFMAN ‘90

Amy Strasser ’90 and Andrew Strasser

Jesus Torres ‘91

PAPA LAKIND

Ben Lakind ‘23

LLOYD LOWREY, JR.

Carol Lowrey

CONNOR MCCARTHY ‘98

Eric Peterson ‘98

SHEILA MCGUIRE

Shirley Coly

The McGuire Family York School Board of Trustees

VICTOR MEYERS

Robert Meyer ’69 and Kathleen Harner

JOAN AND BOB MOHLENHOFF

Jennifer Mohlenhoff-Baggett ’87 and Jeff Baggett

Memorial gifts are made in rememberance of loved ones who have passed away. The name(s) of the person(s) honored are listed first.

ALICE AND WILLIAM MORGAN

Benjamin Morgan ‘90

NICK NELL ‘95

Clementine Bonner Klein ’95 and John Klein

Wilbur Lee ’95 and Cordelia Lee

SUNNY PERKINS ‘95

Clementine Bonner Klein ’95 and John Klein

CHRISTIAN POLLOCK ‘06

Deborah Howitt

Michele and Ambrose Pollock

BRIAN ROGERS

Jessamin and Richard Rega

TEX RYAN ‘69

Robert Meyer ’69 and Kathleen Harner

HENRY AND HELEN RYU

Edwin Ryu ’69 and Julie Satake Ryu

NATALIE ROSE SANFORD ‘19

Pamela Clemens

DR. ALLEN SANTELL

Laura Solorio

KEVIN SHERWOOD ‘06

Jill and Patrick Sherwood

MATTHEW SHULER ‘91

Jennifer Gonzalez ’91 and Mike Gonzalez

JANET HELEN THOMASEN

Grandmother of Devon Hubert ‘14

Analynn and David Patterson

JIM TUNNEY

Nicholas Sturch

RACHEL WAHL ‘92

Diana and Clinton Thelander

KAREN MARIE WEITZMAN ‘81

Dagmar and James Huffman

Honor Gifts

VERONIKA BARLOW

Julie and Christopher Barlow

ELI BERNSTEIN ‘92

Patricia and Larry Bernstein

For our son, Eli, who gained so much from his education at York

SKY BROWN

Anonymous

LORI HOWELLS BRUMMER

Analynn and David Patterson

MARY KAY CROCKETT

With gratitude for her inspiring, gracious, and generous life of friendship, service, and love.

Bishop Mary Gray-Reeves

BRENDAN DUDA ‘03

Francis Duda and Hilary Traynor-Duda

STEPHANY DUDA ‘98

Francis Duda and Hilary Traynor-Duda

DR. AFOLABI EPEGA

Christina and John Epega

ANNA FAITH

Michelle Lange

MR. ROWAN FOGG ‘26

Erin and Trevor Fogg

DR. JEFFREY HANNA

Tamara and Christopher Meckel

WALTER HOWE ‘98

Wendy and Kevin Howe

CHRISTINE LEE ‘85

Jennifer Powell-Wiley ‘85

TOBEY MALONE ‘20

Stephen Storey

IAN MARTIN ‘90

Marlene Martin

RYAN MECKEL ‘17

Tamara and Christopher Meckel

ALEXANDER NIKSSARIAN ‘06

Mary and David Nikssarian

BENJAMIN NIKSSARIAN ‘16

Mary and David Nikssarian

ISAAC NIKSSARIAN ‘10

Mary and David Nikssarian

KENT NYBAKKEN ‘84

Dr. Bette H. Nybakken

SCOTT NYBAKKEN ‘86

Dr. Bette H. Nybakken

ALEXA ORTIZ ‘20

Dottie and Clyde Roberson

Anne Peattie ‘97

Donald Peattie and Lise Peterson

John Peattie ‘01

Donald Peattie and Lisa Peterson

STEVE PETERS

Anna Faith

SUE PHAN ‘77

Jean Wang

ISABELLA REGA ‘25

Jessamin and Richard Rega

MARY LEE SINGER

Meredith and Thomas Webster

PETER STRATTON ‘28

Brad Zielinski

NICHOLAS STURCH

Wesley Lindberg ‘07

Victoria and Carl Palminteri

One of the best teachers at York

Mackenzie Zalin ‘05

JUNE AOKI TRACHSEL

Denise Estrella ‘92

CONNIE AND GRAHAM YOST

Mom and Dad, thanks for the education

Jonathan Yost ‘14

Day of Giving

This year marks our fourth annual Day of Giving at York. It is an exciting time for alumni, parents, and students to honor a tradition of giving.

Throughout the month of April we shared “the keys” —alumni stories, and how they unlocked the “Falcon future” related programs currently at York.

Many alumni also participated in a video to inspire giving by sharing how York made a difference in their lives.

Watch it here: bit.ly/york-dog25

On the Day of Giving, our challenge donors kicked us off with a generous $12,000 challenge gift from Clark Shishido '86, Tom Drendel '74, and a Generous Alumna '02. In total, we raised $39,447 from 72 donors at York. Thank you for unlocking falcon futures together!

Constance H. Bishop Society

The Constance H. Bishop Society honors the example of the McIntosh and Bishop families and their generosity to York School. Members of the Society are recognized for their donation of a scholarship-sized gift ($10,000+) to fund one or more financial aid awards in the current fiscal year.

William McCaskey Chapman and Adaline Dinsmore Chapman Foundation

Nancy Eccles and Homer M. Hayward Family Foundation

Daniel Fenton ’76 and Denise Fenton

Howard Goodkin Scholarship

Provided by Jeanne and Samuel Gesumaria and Sherry and Robert Long

Pam and Gifford Lehman

Payette River Foundation

Pebble Beach Company Foundation

Marsha Zelus

WE’D LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING CONTRIBUTORS TO THE YORK SCHOOL IMPACT REPORT 2025:

Contributors

Mark Kerman ‘78, Board Chair

Matt Micciche, Head of School

Anna Faith, former Assistant Director of Philanthropy, Annual Giving & Alumni Relations

Dan Gurska, Humanities Faculty

Michelle Lange, Assistant Director of Philanthropy, Annual Giving, Operations, Grants & Stewardship

Chris Lopez, Jazz Band Director

Jenny Nadaner, Director, York Scholars & AP Capstone Program, World Languages Faculty (Spanish), Academic Community Partnerships & CIEE Coordinator, EdTech Specialist

Spencer Williams, Arts Department Chair, Director of Performing Arts, Experiential Learning Coordinator

Scott Boynton, Technical Theater, MakerSpace Tech, Digital Design

Steve Peters, Athletic Director

Ava Hoffmeister ‘26

Editing and Production

Spoke Consulting

Graphic Design

Samantha Godoy, Spoke Consulting

Photo Credits

Dr. Dan Gurska, Humanities Faculty

Grace Khieu, Director of Technology, Multimedia Producer

Ian Martin ’90, Ian Martin Photography

Jenny Nadaner, World Languages Faculty & Distinguished Scholars Program Coordinator

Maia Thielen, former Communications and Marketing Manager

Michael Troutman ’82, DMT Imaging

York

students take on New York and Anastasia: The Musical at Lincoln Center Stage

Disclaimer

York School recognizes and thanks those individuals, foundations, corporations, and organizations included in this report for their generous contributions during the Fiscal Year 2025 (July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025). Gifts received after June 30, 2025 will be acknowledged in next year’s Impact Report.

While we strive to provide accurate recognition of our donors for this report, errors and omissions sometimes occur. If you contributed as a donor and your name was inadvertently omitted, listed in the wrong place, or misspelled, please accept our sincere apologies and contact us at giving@york.org.

9501 YORK RD. MONTEREY, CA 93940 | 831.372.7338 | YORK.ORG GRADES 8–12 | LEADER

IN EDUCATION ON THE MONTEREY PENINSULA

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

If you receive duplicate copies of this publication, or a copy for an alum who now has a separate permanent address, please let us know at alumni@york.org or 831.372.7338x128.

York is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the California Association of Independent Schools. York is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools. York School admits students of any race, color, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities available to students at the School, and the School does not discriminate on the basis of these factors in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, financial aid program, or athletic and other school-administered programs.

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