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,
Matt Micciche Head of School
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:
Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy | Annual Giving & Alumni Relations
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
Robles-Parra
’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
Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy | Annual Giving & Alumni Relations
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!
Danielle McShane ‘99
Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy
Annual Giving & Alumni Relations
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.
Alexa Arango-Cuevas
‘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.
Alvin Liu ‘25
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,
Mark Kerman ‘78 Board Chair
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.
Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy | Annual Giving & Alumni Relations
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.
Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy | Annual Giving & Alumni Relations
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.
Nicholas Sturch
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.
Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy | Annual Giving & Alumni Relations
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
Anna Faith, Former Assistant Director of Philanthropy | Annual Giving & Alumni Relations
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.
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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.