2024-2025 Annual Report : simplebooklet.com

WelcomeMessageDear Families,At Sage Hill School, the Sage Center continues to lead with purpose, driving transformativeexperiences rooted in real-world impact.The 2024–2025 school year invited us to return to our core values with renewed energy.This was evident in student-led dialogue through Discussions Unfiltered, reflective facultyconversations within the SEED program, and sustained investment in Spring at Sage, SHIP,Service Learning, and much more. This year was guided by a clear throughline: What kindof community are we building, and how will it shape the world around us?That commitment to shaping a thoughtful, inclusive community came into sharper focusas the year unfolded. We leaned into the practice of empathetic disagreement as apresidential election stirred conversation across generations. Our BSU families brought thecommunity together with an unforgettable Cultural Connections celebration. We wereinspired by the creative spirit of author Sandra Cisneros, who visited campus on the 40thanniversary of The House on Mango Street. Through it all, we returned to the belief thatsustaining a vibrant community requires more than shared values - it requires sharedeffort and the courage to grow through both connection and challenge.None of this would be possible without the trust and support of our community. I remaindeeply grateful to Head of School Patricia Merz and Assistant Head of School forAcademics Dr. Matthew Balossi for their leadership and partnership, and to the SageCenter team for their genuine passion and commitment to this work.I invite you to explore these pages not just as a record of what we’ve done, but as areflection of the values that shape us, and the community we’re continually shapingtogether. Warmly,Sanan Shirinian (she/her)Sage Center DirectorSanan ShirinianPage 04

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Sage Center Day morning assemblies are a special timewhen our community gathers to reflect, connect andengage with the world beyond the classroom. Thesemornings offer space for students, faculty, staff andfamilies to come together around shared experiences,creative expression, and moments that challenge andinspire us. Whether through a powerful performance, apersonal story or cultural tradition, each gathering offersa window into who we are as a community. They serveas powerful reminders that our strength lies not only inour diversity, but in our willingness to show up for oneanother with curiosity and care.SAGECENTERMORNINGSPage 06

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SEPTEMBERThe first Sage Center Day morning served as both anorientation and a launchpad for the year ahead. Theday began with a Land Acknowledgment ceremony byAdelia Sandvoal from the Juaneño Band of MissionIndians. Students then gathered by grade level tolearn about signature programs, preview theirupcoming Service Learning placements, exploreSpring at Sage offerings, and discover our manystudent affinity groups. The afternoon featured akeynote by Bo Seo, former Harvard debate coach andacclaimed author of Good Arguments, who spokeabout the power and practice of empatheticdisagreement. His talk invited students to considerhow disagreement, when approached thoughtfully,can build stronger communities. OCTOBERIn celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, LatinosUnidos - supported by Mrs. Fuenmayor - led a movingSage Center Day morning centered on Día de losMuertos. Students shared the cultural and historicalroots of this Mexican tradition, tracing it back to Aztectimes, and invited the community to contribute to acollective ofrenda (altar) by honoring loved ones whohave passed. The celebration concluded with avibrant traditional dance performance by Relámpagodel Cielo Grupo Folklorico, leaving the community witha deeper appreciation of this powerful act ofremembrance and cultural pride.NOVEMBERDuring the November Sage Center Day morning, ourAsian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) affinity group,supported by their advisor Mrs. Miyashiro, delivered aheartfelt presentation on food as a love language.Students shared personal stories about favorite familydishes and how cooking and eating together expresscare across generations. A student-created videooffered glimpses into home kitchens, where parentsand grandparents cooked dishes like shui jian bao,pork bao and spam musubi. Senior Dory Ding followedwith a beautiful performance on the guzheng, atraditional Chinese instrument. To close the morning,students enjoyed a sampling of some Asian snacks,before heading into their second Service Learningrotation.Page 07

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DECEMBERDecember’s Sage Center Day overflowed with studenttalent and energy. The Honors Synergy DanceEnsemble captivated the audience with aperformance set to The Beatles’ “Eleanor Rigby,”followed by a series of musical performances: thebarber shop group called The Six Cs performed“Hallelujah,” and “For the Longest Time,” andPerforming Arts to Heal students presented a piecefrom the musical Tick, Tick... Boom. The morning closedwith a holiday video montage featuring students andfaculty offering good luck wishes for finals and a joyfulwelcome to the new year.JANUARYIn honor of Sage Hill’s 25th anniversary, we welcomedour school’s co-founder and philanthropist SteveJohnson for a powerful Sage Center Day morningpresentation. Introduced by Head of School PatriciaMerz, Johnson reflected on his personal journey forjustice after the death of his brother, Scott Johnson, agay doctoral student whose 1988 death in Australiawas later uncovered as a hate crime. His advocacyhelped change laws, elevate awareness, and supportthe movement for marriage equality in Australia. Hisvisit was especially meaningful as the namesake ofthe Johnson Family Library, a cornerstone of Sage Hill.Later that day, Johnson joined Dr. Feland and studentsfrom the LGBTQ+ affinity group for a deeper, morepersonal Q&A.Page 08

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FEBRUARYOn a memorable Februarymorning, our Black StudentUnion (BSU), with the support oftheir advisor, Mrs. Smith, led apowerful assembly focused onthe relationship betweencultural identity and self-expression. BSU membersshared original workhighlighting the significance ofBlack hair and the stories itholds. Trey Cradle read hispoem “Crown of Roots,” andSienna Burnette shared hershort story, “Straight, Wavy,Curly, and Coily.” Students alsopremiered a short video fromthe recent Cultural Connectionscelebration, which broughttogether over 100 communitymembers to honor Black culturalcontributions and kick off BlackHistory Month with joy andintention.MARCHThe final Sage Center Day of theyear was led by students from theMiddle Eastern and North African(MENA) affinity group, whohighlighted the lasting globalcontributions of their cultures. Fromthe origins of algebra to thepreservation of Aramaic, thestudents invited the community toreflect on the historical significanceand modern vibrancy of the MENAregion. The morning concluded witha touching musical performance byjunior Aisha Muhsin, who sang asong in Arabic about her homeland,Iraq. Ms. Touloumian closed themorning with words of gratitude forthe many Service Learning advisorsand chaperones whose effortsshaped a meaningful year ofservice. Page 09

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CROSS-CULTURALCOMPETENCY: Awarded to members of the communitywho demonstrate the ability to adapt andthrive in intercultural settings by learning,communicating, and building connectionsacross diverse backgrounds and beliefs.Katelyn Gan Sienna Burnette SDLC Participants: Brian Yu,Naomi Tran, Isaac Alegria,Mandy Zhou, Maya Desai Evi Branch Aisha Muhsin COLLABORATION:Awarded to members of the communitywho consider and integrate diverseperspectives while maintaining their ownvoice, working effectively with others to setand achieve shared goals.Carson Ellis Jake Pirnazar Sarah Christeson (Staff)Alden Hubbard Carl Jiang, Carmel Lin, ChelseaChen, Max Lee, Kevin Wu, BenLi, and Anna GaoCREATIVITY:Awarded to members of the communitywho pursue curiosity and discover the joyof embracing a risk-taking mindset whilegenerating innovative ideas or works. Dory Ding Ethan Chen Claire Sueyoshi Tony Tan Carter Klein COMMUNICATION:Awarded to members of the communitywho communicate with clarity, empathy,and intention—using spoken, written, andnonverbal language to share ideas, listendeeply, and build mutual understanding.Claire Cassidy (Faculty)Kerry Langdale (Faculty)Sophie Kramer Merja Connolly (Faculty)Megan Cid (Admin)CRITICAL THINKING:Awarded to members of the communitywho think deeply and reflectively, usingevidence to solve problems, makemeaningful connections, and apply whatthey’ve learned to real-world situationsand thoughtful decisions.David Zheng Mandy Zhou Ryne Wang Sophia Lin Danny Al Ali CHARACTER:Awarded to members of the communitywho uphold integrity and act mindfully inall situations while understanding thatindividual choices impact the greatercommunity.Finley Maynard Addison Knight Alyssa Flynn (Staff)Charles Gomez Jesse LewPage 11

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The Sage Hill Service Learning program puts students’empathy muscles to use by helping them becomeengaged members of diverse communities, takeinterest in the world around them, find meaning andpurpose in giving, and contribute value to thecollective. Service Learning is embedded into our monthly SageCenter Days, with upperclassmen taking onadditional work outside of those days to cultivateongoing relationships with local community partners.SERVICELEARNINGPage 13

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NINTH GRADEThe Ninth Grade experience is designed to help students develop a deeper understanding of thediverse communities that make up Orange County. Through engagement with various localorganizations, students build cross-cultural awareness and reflect on the region’s rich history,environmental concerns, and socio-economic challenges. This foundational experience preparesstudents to approach future service work with greater context, empathy, and a sense ofconnection to the world around them.SKYVIEW SCHOOLAt Skyview, a day school dedicated to serving students inkindergarten through 8th grade currently experiencinghomelessness, our students lead engaging activities andbuild connections while sharing lunch together.LAND HISTORYAt the Blas Aguilar Adobe, students have the opportunity tolearn from Jacque Nunez, a Native American activist, andstoryteller from the Juaneno Band of Mission Indians, theoriginal Indigenous people of Orange County. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTAt the Newport Bay Conservancy, students explore localenvironmental challenges and take part in restoring thehabitat by removing invasive sea lavender from the bay.Page 14

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COURTHOUSEAt the Collaborative Courtsof Orange County, studentswitness real-time courtproceedings focused onrehabilitation and have theunique opportunity to meetwith Judge Cooper to gaininsight into the local justicesystem.SOCIAL SERVICESAt the Orange County Rescue Mission, students engage withstaff to learn about the wide range of services offered tofamilies experiencing homelessness. They also lend a handby serving meals, organizing clothing and personal careitems, and packing boxes in the donation center.- Isabelle Engelbrecht ‘28During the OC Rescue Mission rotation, I learned homelessness isn't just defined assomeone who is visibly out of housing. People are often experiencing hardshipeven if we can't see it. By reaching out, having empathy and truly listening toothers, we can make a tremendous impact.VETERANSAt Heroes Hall Veterans Museum & Exhibit, our studentsexplore the personal stories and experiences of veteransfrom Orange County, gaining a deeper understanding oftheir service and sacrifice.Page 15

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Sage Hill sophomores embark on a yearlong Service Learning journey rooted in buildingmeaningful relationships with students from our partner schools. Facilitated through the English IIcurriculum and supported by Lead Class Advisor Mrs. Flynn, students led programming for fourthgrade students from El Sol Academy, Edward B. Cole Academy, and Scholarship Prep ElementarySchool.Through visits filled with personal narrative writing, games, arts and crafts, outdoor play, and STEMchallenges, students begin to develop a strong connection with their buddies. As the yearprogresses and these relationships deepen, students gain more autonomy in designing andleading activities tailored to their buddies' needs and interests. Projects and experiences aregrounded in the Six Cs and identity and literacy work, encouraging both creativity and purpose.This year, our partner schools visited the Sage Hill campus twice. During these visits, studentsparticipated in a campus-wide scavenger hunt and a talent show that featured singing, dancing,magic tricks, stand-up comedy, and musical performances.Most importantly, students come to understand how much their buddies look forward to each visit,developing a strong sense of responsibility, accountability, and leadership. They recognize thattheir presence matters and that showing up consistently builds trust, confidence, and ameaningful bond. What begins as a school project quickly becomes a deeply personalcommitment, as students witness the joy and excitement their buddies feel when they arrive. 10 GRADETHPage 16

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The upperclassman Service Learning program offers endless possibilities for students to engagein meaningful and purpose-driven service work. Building on the foundations and experiences fromtheir first two years, 11th and 12th grade students can propose independent projects or join existingfaculty-led initiatives. During the 2024-2025 school year, upperclassmen participated in 37 different projects thataddressed a wide variety of community needs throughout Orange County and beyond. Whethercreating their own initiative or joining a collaborative team, students gain valuable experience inleadership, critical thinking, empathy and community engagement. 11 AND 12 GRADESTH THTwo Service Learning groups organized impactful campusevents that engaged local middle school students. InFebruary, the Math Field Day group hosted a half-daymathematics competition featuring a variety of problem-solving activities and challenges. On InternationalWomen’s Day, the GEMFest group welcomed over 90Orange County middle schoolers to campus for a day ofworkshops and celebration focused on mentorship,empowerment, and resilience for girls.Crafting For Comfort conductedmultiple arts and crafts activities withthe residents at Woodbridge Terrace.The Care for Women and Childrenteam aided several organizations thatassist in improving the lives of womenand children throughout OC. The Blankets for Good donated theblankets they knitted to Veterans atHeroes Landing.Change into Change taughtDiscovery Cube visitors how plasticbottles are recycled into T-shirtsthrough hands-on demonstrations.The Pet Pals Service Learning grouphosted therapy dog events at SageHill School and several elementaryand middle schools in Santa Ana.Families Forward students organizedand sorted items at the organization’sfood pantry and provided meals tofamilies facing insecurities.Fostering Positivity created blankets forcomfort, wellness booklets on topicslike self-care and gratitude, andfriendship bracelets for foster children.BrainSTEM Initiative students hasintroduced El Sol 4th graders to thebrain and the important role it plays inour lives, through activities and lessons.Students from the Sightsavers Initiativescollected eyeglasses and donated aportion to those that were affected bythe wildfires in Altadena, Los Angeles. Page 17

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Students in Ceramics created andsold their handmade pottery to sell,with all proceeds going toward effortsto combat food insecurity in OC.The Web Security for Seniors groupvisited several senior centers to runworkshops on how to stay safe onlineand combat scams.The DanceMinds Service Learninggroup led dance workshops withstudents at Scholarship Prep. Music and Memory visited ParkTerrace, where students were pairedwith seniors to exchange stories andbuild meaningful connections.The Tech-Connect project visitedlocal senior homes like Crown Coveand Woodbridge Terrace to helpseniors with technology issues.The Bring Change to Mind ServiceLearning group promoted physicaland mental wellness on campus andbeyond. Students from Performing Arts to Healperformed at different locationsentertaining residents of senior livinghomes. Running with Purpose organizedassisted training runs, held gear drives,and created running starter packs.The Beyond Athletics Service Learninggroup helped bring sports programmingto local elementary schools.Documenting Change produced adocumentary about homelessness inOC, highlighting its root causes andthe experiences of those affected.The DECA Service Learning groupworked on business proposals with thestudents from Higher Ground Youth &Family Services. Teens Against E-Waste collectedbatteries to recycle and ledworkshops to encourage responsiblee-waste disposal.Thank you to the incredible faculty and staff who served as Service Learning advisors andchaperones this year. Your dedication and guidance made it possible for our students toengage in meaningful, community-centered work both on and off campus.Page 18

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Spring at Sage is Sage Hill’s Global Education andExperiential Learning program. Immediately following finalexams in the Spring, all students and faculty participate inlocal seminars or group travel. Spring at Sage offerings are designed with purpose andintention for students to explore current issues, diversecultures, local initiatives, and global institutions beyondthe traditional classroom. Travel destinations are selectedannually with a guiding learning objective at the center ofeach itinerary. SPRING AT SAGEPage 19

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During the 2024-2025 school year, Sage Hill students traveled to 11 uniquedestinations and participated in 22 dynamic seminar offerings. AZORESStudents explored volcanic structures, studied whaleconservation, and engaged in marine ecology in theremote islands of the Azores.CAMBODIAStudents explored Cambodia’s post-conflict developmentby engaging with local organizations focused on sports,entrepreneurship and education.FLORIDA KEYSStudents restored coral reefs, conducted marine research,and explored the literary roots of the Florida Keys throughworkshops and creative projects. OVERVIEW OF TRIPS & SEMINARSPage 20

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GERMANY Students explored Berlin’s grassroots innovations insustainability, visited eco-initiatives, and learned aboutenvironmental stewardship.LONDONStudents explored London's visual and performing artsscene, engaged with local artists, and investigated equityand access in creative industries.MALTAStudents explored Malta’s historic cities, learned abouttraditional bread and cheesemaking, and met local leadersadvancing social justice balanced with religious tradition.NEW ORLEANSStudents explored Creole and Cajun culture, cooked localdishes, studied voodoo traditions, and experienced liveZydeco and jazz in New Orleans and Lafayette.Page 21

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NEW YORKStudents explored the intersection of sports and socialjustice through museums, community programs, andmajor league games in New York City.PANAMAStudents studied the Panama Canal’s impact on globaltrade and climate change, explored rich Afro-Caribbeanheritage, and visited rainforests.VANCOUVERStudents explored Chinese Canadian history andimmigration in Vancouver through workshops, dialoguesand cultural tours.POETIC SURFING Students surfed, camped, wrote, hiked and practiced yogawhile connecting with nature and community on the bluffsat Trails.Page 22

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BookbindingStudents explored alternative bookbindingtechniques, from crafting single-sheetmini-zines to intricate case-boundhardcovers.Active OCStudents experienced new and differentways to be active all across Orange County.Art of Critiquing"The Art of Critiquing" seminar focused onwriting and presenting effective criticismsfor museums, movies, and food.California Car CultureStudents learned about car mechanics,different engine types, car history, andhosted a “Cars & Coffee” event on campus.Sawdust FestivalStudents created their own artwork, participatedin hands-on workshops, and learned fromseasoned artists from the Sawdust Festival.How to Do StuffStudents learn survival skills including but notlimited to starting fires, changing tires andmore!Grow Eat Make PeaceStudents explored agroforestry,permaculture, and sustainable farmingthrough hands-on workshops,community projects, and a farm-to-tablecelebration at The Ecology Center in SanJuan Capistrano.Electronics, Circuit Design, andthe Music from Outer Space!Students designed and built their own analogsynthesizer from scratch, learning basicelectronics and creating an instrumentstraight out of classic Sci-Fi.Engineering Discovery Marble ProjectStudents crafted a life-size marble runusing hardware and household items toexperience engineering firsthand!Students learned how the human brainlearns and thrives, using innovativegamified software, dissecting brains, andlearning about diseases that impact thebrain long-term. Brain OdysseyPage 23

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Social Innovation forSustainabilityStudents tackled real-world sustainabilitychallenges, designed social innovations, andpitched their ideas to a panel of judges.Plein Art PaintingStudents explored the rich tradition of PleinAir painting in Southern California, creatingart outdoors at local sites and parks.Build Your Own Electric GuitarIn this fan-favorite seminar, students builttheir own electric guitar from scratch,including sanding, painting, and electronicassembly!Sewing at SageStudents learned how to sew a variety of itemsincluding three unique pieces of clothing.Cultural MosaicStudents took hands-on classes, explored theart scene, sampled diverse cuisines, andvisited local museums to uncover the richartistic history of OC and LA.Math in MoviesStudents analyzed math in movies, solvedproblems, and presented about the films.I’m Going to DisneylandStudents studied the history, economics,culture and politics of Disneyland throughinteractive activities and capped it offwith a two-day trip to the park.Meditation & MovementStudents practiced meditation and Tai Chi,building mindfulness as a foundation forpersonal growth and meaningful action.Peak PerformanceStudents built skills in nutrition, mentaltoughness, advanced training, sportspsychology, and injury preventionthrough workshops, hands-on activities,and personalized sessions.Students learned the art of filmmaking byproducing their very own creative short filmsand clips highlighting the 2024 Spring atSage offerings.Storytelling Through FilmStudents worked alongside local firefightersto become Teen Certified EmergencyResponder Trained (TEEN CERT-Certifed),CPR, and Stop the Bleed.Teen CERT & CPRStudents learned about an analyzed thestock market, using a live stockstimulator to track fluctuations!Wall Street 101Page 24

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PRE-SHIP (NINTH GRADE)By utilizing the Find Your Grind Educational platform, ninth grade students participate in self-paced online modules that lead to self-discovery, uncovering more about themselves, theirpassions, talents, and aspirations. The program aims to equip the students with the necessaryresources and abilities to excel in SHIP Level 1 & 2. LEVEL 1 RESUME REVIEWS AND MOCK INTERVIEWSDuring the 2024-2025 academic year, our dedicated parentvolunteers conducted 167 resume review sessions, providingstudents with valuable feedback on content, formatting, andpresentation to help them better highlight their skills andachievements. Then, 125 students took part in mockinterviews, experiencing realistic practice sessions where theyresponded to common questions and received constructivefeedback. Together, these experiences aimed to help studentsrefine their resumes, sharpen their interview skills, boost theirconfidence, and prepare effectively for internships andleadership opportunities. LEVEL 2Building on the foundation from 10th grade,11th grade students participated in twoworkshops that further developed theirprofessional skill set. They explored how tobuild a professional online presence bycreating LinkedIn profiles that reflect theirunique goals and experiences. In the secondsession, students were introduced to the artof negotiation, learning how to navigateconversations around various opportunities. 10 grade students took part in twoworkshops during the year focused onessential career readiness skills. In the firstsession, they learned how to craftprofessional and effective resumes thathighlight their experiences, strengths, andinterests. The second workshop introducedstudents to key interviewing techniques,helping them practice how to presentthemselves with confidence, communicatetheir goals, and respond thoughtfully tocommon interview questions. th167Resumes Reviewed125Mock InterviewsConductedPage 26

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CAREER PANELSThroughout the year, students engaged with professionals from a wide range of fields, gaininginsight into what it takes to thrive in various industries. Panelists emphasized the value ofeducation, the power of creativity, and the idea that success extends beyond academicaccomplishments.Bilal Muhsin - Chief OperatingOfficer at Masimo CorporationJai Parekh - Director of BusinessDevelopment at MedtronicLauren DeVincentis (‘07) - SeniorSpecialist of CorporateCommunications at Terumo NeuroModerator - Yujia Aurora Li (‘26) Medical Devices Dr. Stefani Andrews (‘07) - ScientificKnowledge Manager at BasepawsAmir Soleimany (‘15) - Sr. ProductManager at RivianKaren Li (‘17) - Investment Associateat Climate Investment.Moderator - Shaurya Mittal (‘26)EnvironmentalSustainabilityIn Service of Justice andPublic GoodDr. Elizabeth Cauffman - Professorof Psychological Science,Education and Law at UCIDr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong - CountyHealth Officer of Orange CountyModerator: Isaac Alegria (‘26) PARENT VOLUNTEERSWe would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to theincredible team of parent volunteers who dedicatedtheir time and expertise to support our students withresume reviews, mock interviews, and provideshadowing/internship opportunities. We areimmensely grateful for your support. A special thank you to the SHIP Parent Co-chairsSamina Mansuri, Amy Parekh, and Whitney Gomez fortheir leadership, invaluable support and dedication tothe program. Neda AmanatFaye AnPengling ChanLeslie CoreaAnjali DesaiMark EllisShveta GoelYing GuMing GuanBeomki HongLily HuangJennifer HueySeung Hwa LeePooneh Khazei Nicole Kline James Lee Joy Lin Wei Ling Lau Christina Park Sharona Pirnazar Mary Roosevelt Jay Shah Neda Stoll Zheng Sun Sheila Swaroop Abhishek Uppal Grace Yee Ed Yun Page 27

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SUMMER INTERNSHIPS ANDSHADOW DAYSStudents who fulfill the SHIP program requirements gain exclusive access to a robust list ofinternship and shadow day opportunities throughout Orange County and surrounding areas. Thisyear, the program offered 72 internship placements and 186 shadow day opportunities.Aseel Al-Ali '27 interned withboard-certified dermatologistDr. Jessie Hou at ImperialDermatology.Isaac Alegria ‘26 interned withthe City of Irvine in the office ofCouncilmember Mike Carroll,and will continue his work thereafter the internship concludes.Aanya Pillai ‘27 shadowedSage Hill trustee and board-certified oral and maxillofacialsurgeon, Dr. Prabh Grewal, atthe Corona Oral Surgery &Implant Center.Alexia Beyrath '26 and LiamSapan '27 shadowed personalinjury attorney Chris Guldjian atChris and Frank AccidentAttorneys in Newport Beach.Ben Ahn '27 participated in ashadow day at Altai CapitalManagement, gaining insightinto entrepreneurship,leadership and innovationthrough our partnership with TiEOrange County.Annika Shah ‘26, Jayla Chan ‘26,Justin Kline ‘26, Zaydin Lateef ‘26and Chandon Heer ‘26 spent theirsummer at Boeing, contributing toprojects in aerospace engineering,technology, and innovation as partof a selective high school program.Isaac Alegria ‘26During my time at Councilmember Mike Carroll’s office, I attended city council meetings, helped draftannouncements and agenda briefings, gathered documents, and assisted with community engagementevents. One of the major issues dividing Irvine residents right now is the Oak Creek proposal, and one of myresponsibilities was tracking all the calls and emails from residents to better understand their perspectives. Ourgoal was to support our constituents. Working for Councilmember Carroll gave me a chance to get my foot inthe door and be part of something bigger than myself, and it confirmed that this is truly the kind of work I wantto continue in the future.Page 28

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In September, we welcomed author, journalist, and world-champion debater, Bo Seo. DuringSage Center Orientation Day, Seo spoke to students and faculty about how to engage inpositive and respectful disagreements. That evening, he returned to campus to present“Empathetic Disagreement,” offering parents practical strategies for building understandingacross differences in the home, workplace, and broader community. Drawing on hisbackground in competitive debate, Seo showed how empathy can be practiced throughlistening, perspective-taking, and thoughtful dialogue. “Agreeing about the structure of how we’regoing to have the exchange is a way of saying‘hey can we agree we’re going to haveroughly equal time here to make our point?Can we agree that we’re going to take turns sowe don’t interrupt each other?’ I think thosekinds of minimal structural elements can giveroom for people to make their point in full andfeel as if they have been heard.”-Bo Seo EMPATHETIC DISAGREEMENT: BRIDGING DIFFERENCES WITH GOOD ARGUMENTSScan the QR Code towatch a clip of his talkPage 30

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In January we welcomed Sage Hill co-founder Steve Johnson. His talk focused on the tragicstory of his brother, Scott Johnson, a gay doctoral student whose 1988 death in Sydney,Australia was initially ruled a suicide. Steve’s relentless pursuit of justice revealed Scott was thevictim of a hate crime. For decades, Steve has led efforts in New South Wales to seek justice forvictims of homophobic violence from the 1980s and 1990s, ultimately contributing to Australia’s2017 legalization of same-sex marriage.Last year, Steve published "A Thousand Miles From Care: The Hunt for My Brother’s Killer – AThirty-Year Quest for Justice," and his story is featured in Hulu’s 2023 documentary "Never LetHim Go." NEVER LET HIM GO: JUSTICE FORMY BROTHER AND A PUBLICRECKONING“Always tell the truth—your credibilityis everything. Even in a crisis, hold onto the truth. Treat everyone withdignity. Don’t give up, things willchange, and you’ll be the reason.And finally, what Scott and I lived by,and I still do: don’t be cynical. Most people are good.” -Steve JohnsonScan the QR Code towatch a clip of his talkPage 31

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“The stories that we wish we could forget are the ones we need to writedown…you need to write them down so they don’t silence you, they don’tcensor you, they so that don’t hurt you because creating art is medicine…ithelps heal you.” -Sandra Cisneros IN CONVERSATION WITH AWARD-WINNING NOVELIST SANDRA CISNEROSIn February, the Sage Hill community welcomedacclaimed author Sandra Cisneros in honor of the40th anniversary of her novel, The House onMango Street, a core text in the English Icurriculum. The evening talk was moderated bysophomore Breeze Estrada, and earlier that day,Cisneros met with ninth grade students to discusstheir reading of the novel. Students engaged herwith thoughtful questions, and Cisnerosencouraged them to explore the novel’s themesthrough personal interpretation. She concludedthe visit by signing books and sharing meaningfulone-on-one conversations, leaving them inspiredby her warmth, wisdom, and generosity. A HOUSE OF MY OWN: Scan the QR Code towatch a clip of her talkPage 32

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Sage Hill Affinity Groups bring students together aroundshared experiences to foster connection, belonging andhealthy personal development. These groups create asupportive environment where students can learn fromone another, build community and celebrate therichness of the many backgrounds within our school.We extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicatedAffinity Group facilitators who generously give their timeand care to supporting these student communities.Thank you to Annalise Miyashiro, Sydney Smith, AprilLeavenworth, Sara Graham, Cassandra Fuenmayor,Jeffrey Feland, Verginie Touloumian and Nisha Kunte. AFFINITYGROUPSJewishLatinosUnidosBSUBlack StudentUnionDivergentStudents w/DisabilitiesAAPISouthAsianLGBTQ+Lesbian, Gay,Bisexual,Transgender,Queer MENAMiddle-Eastern/North AfricanPage 33Asian AmericanPacific Islander

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I enjoy this work because this is a space that is so affirmingand positive for our students. I enjoy seeing how they areable to let their guard down, relate to one another, andleave the meeting empowered and refreshed. Year overyear, it has been wonderful to see students come back tothe space, continue to grow, and become more of their fullyrealized and authentic selves.- Dr. Feland, LGBTQ+ Group FacilitatorSAAG enjoyed itssecond year of growthas an affinity group.Students continued tobuild community andwe particularlyenjoyed gettingtogether for chai andsnacks during lunchmeetings. -Dr. Kunte,South AsianGroupFacilitator Page 34

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Under the guidance of Ms. Smith, I found asense of belonging in this sacred place ofBSU. From having dynamic conversationsdissecting the nuanced Black experience,to lovingly poking fun at each other’s musicpreferences, my time in BSU was filled withunderstanding, growth, and so much joy.BSU helped me feel less alone navigatingthe world. It also taught me to embrace myidentity unapologetically, an idea thatwould have seemed radical to me just afew years ago. Most importantly, BSU gaveme a community of lifelong brothers andsisters. As I move onto the next chapter ofmy life, I will hold close the lessons learned,the friendships forged, and the strength Igained from the beautiful peoplesurrounding me. -Courtney Tetteh-Martey ‘25 - Ms. Gould, Jewish Affinity Group FacilitatorThis year, the Jewish affinity group welcomed new freshmen members andmaintained a solid core of attendees and involved students. Our annualHanukkah party provided needed stress relief to both our affinity group membersand the Sage student body at large, with delicious food and fun activities like aHanukkah-themed tic-tac-toe game, dreidel spinning, and coloring a giantbanner. I joined Ms. Graham as a facilitator for the last few meetings of the yearin order to ease the transition to the 2025-2026 school year. I am looking forwardto continued growth for the group next year. Page 35

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COMMUNITY NIGHTSTwo significant highlights of this year’s CommunityNights were the Latinos Unidos Family Potluck and ourfirst-ever Cultural Connections event.As part of our ongoing commitment to buildingcommunity through cultural celebration, Sage Hill’sLatinos Unidos student group hosted a heartfelt FamilyNight this year. Designed to bring students, familiesand faculty together in a joyful setting, the eveningfeatured music, traditional food, and intergenerationalconnection rooted in Latino heritage and identity.This year’s gathering was especially memorable as italso served as a farewell to our graduating LatinosUnidos seniors. Each senior shared brief, heartfeltreflections on their time in the affinity group,expressing gratitude for the space it provided toconnect with their identity, build community and growin confidence.To kick off Black History Month, Sage Hillhosted Cultural Connections, a vibrantcommunity event held in collaboration withparent volunteers, including DavienBurnette and Mpu Dinani, to celebrate theglobal influence and creative power ofBlack culture. The evening welcomedstudents and families from across theschool and featured delicious food fromBlack-owned businesses Beale’s Texas BBQand Blue Ribbon Desserts, while the LAClippers DJ Dense was spinning music for alively dance floor that brought peopletogether in joy and connection. A powerfuldisplay in the McNeill Merz Loft showcasedan art exhibit designed by professionalfashion illustrator Nicole Updegraff,including pieces of celebrities and selectSage Hill students. Guests also had theopportunity to engage with professionalsrepresenting a wide range of industriesincluding business, aerospace, medicine,fashion, real estate, entertainment, andscience. Finally, our Sage Hill studentspresented dance, poetry and short storiesthat highlight the rich contributions of Blackculture. Cultural Connections served asboth a celebration and a moment oflearning, helping to build bridges anddeepen community across our campus.Scan the QR Code towatch highlights fromthe event. Specialthanks to Mpu Dinani forcapturing and sharingthe video footage.Page 36

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S.A.M.E. Student leaders meet weekly with theSage Center Director to plan initiatives andreflect on current events unfolding bothwithin our community and around the world.As ambassadors for inclusion and belonging,their work extends beyond formal programs,often happening in informal, yet equallyimpactful moments of support, advocacy,and care that help shape the everydayculture of the school.Key initiatives this year included leadingworkshops at the Freshman Retreat focusedon self-reflection and identity. Throughinteractive activities and discussion, theyhelped set the tone for the 9th-grade class,demonstrating that Sage is a communitywhere everyone is accepted, valued, andencouraged to show up as their full selves.Community building was also a major focus.SAME hosted a bonfire bonding night to bringstudents together in a relaxed, joyful setting,as well as an Election Night Watch Party forthe 2024 U.S. Presidential elections, creatingspace for civic engagement andconversation around national issues.To followalong all thework thatSAMEoversees, besure tofollow themonInstagramby scanningthe QR Code Discussions Unfiltered was anothermeaningful project this year - aninitiative where students dedicated theirlunch hour to hosting open andrespectful conversations on a range oftopics. Participants listened to a series ofstatements and physically positionedthemselves along an agree-to-disagreespectrum, then engaged in thoughtfuldialogue to explain their perspectives.This year’s topics ranged from “hottakes” on the Olympics to debates aboutschool curriculum and even the impactof DOGE.Page 38

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Most notably, S.A.M.E. organized the annual day-long conference known as MulticulturalSymposium. The theme of the 2025 symposium was ROOTED: Each of our lives are rooted in beliefsystems, lived experiences, and the legacies of past generations. In turn, these roots inform ourworldviews and actions. As we take on the responsibility of shaping the world we’ve inherited, ourroots provide both foundation and guidance. How can we look toward the changemakers of thepast to inspire the future? Or perhaps, how can we plant new roots that will empower generationsto come? A TREE WITH DEEPROOTS MAY SWAY INTHE STORM, BUT ITWILL NEVER FALL. MULTICULTURAL SYMPOSIUMScan the QR Codeto watch a specialtribute videoPage 39

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Students spent the day attending various workshops led by their peers and teachers. A Conversation Around Free Speech: Its Limits andIts PowerAn Examination of The U.S. Healthcare SystemArts and Crafts-- Craft and ArtBlaze it ForwardBridging Beliefs: A Multifaith Panel for Understandingand ConnectionChinese New Year Through Celebrations andTraditionsCrime, Punishment, and the Science of ChoiceCrispy Orange Sesame ChickenDamaging Datasets: How We’re CombattingUnderrepresentation in ResearchDeficit Discourse: The Way We Talk AboutDisabilities MattersDemocracy Dies in DarknessDitch the Script: Live Authentically, EmbracePersonal Strengths, Find PurposeEmbracing Multiracial IdentityExploring White Feminism through Pop Culture andFilmFilm Food Fusion: Critiquing Cinema and CuisineFlavors & Rhythms: Shaping PerspectivesGive Back and Fight Hunger: From Surplus toSustenanceHelping Children in the System Grow Healthy RootsHip Hop and IdentityHow Discourse Shapes DemocracyIf That Ain’t Country, Tell Me, What Is?In the ArenaInnovations and the Cost of MedicineLife StoriesMiddle Eastern DelightsMusic and Culture: K-Pop and its HistoryPunjabi Aa Gaye Oye: Exploring the Importance ofMusic in Punjabi HistoryResistance in the Digital AgeRooted in HaikuRooted in LaughterRooted in Reimagination: Fashion, Sustainability,and BeyondRooted in ServiceRoots & Routes: Mapping Our Community’sConnectionsRunning for a PurposeThe Beautiful GameThe Past that Makes the FutureUna Experiencia Confrontada con Desprecio: TheErasure of the Latino StruggleWomen’s Empowerment (Taylor’s Version)“You’re not actually passionate about that:”Accumulation and Alienation in the AnthropocenePage 40

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OPENING MEETINGS We kicked off the school year with a workshop for all faculty and staff focused on buildingsustainable communities that nurture our differences. Using the Compass Education SustainabilityCompass, a framework that examines the interconnectedness of Nature, Economy, Society andWellbeing, participants engaged in interactive activities that encouraged them to reflect on howthese pillars show up in our school culture. This session is based on the teachings of Elena Aguilar, the author of Onward: CultivatingEmotional Resilience in Educators. You will learn about the habits and dispositions ofresilient people, and we will discuss how building your resilience can positively impact yourwork with students.Faculty and staff who attended the People of Color Conference (PoCC) this year extended theirlearning by facilitating breakout sessions for colleagues during the January faculty and staffmeeting. Workshop topics included: Habits & Dispositions of Resilient Educators by Anjali Sheth: In this session, we will explore what it means to be Asian American and how this impactsthe experience of students. Supporting AAPI Student Identity Development by Drew Ishii: Code-switching involves changing languages, dialects, or tones of voice in a singleconversation, but, as we will learn in this presentation, it is a means of protection, survival,and source of joy. Code-Switching at School Translated: How Black and Latino Voices RemainAuthentic and Not by Ruth Rubio-Gilbertson & Joseph Moody: FAC-STAFF WORKSHOPSPage 42

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Cultivating a sense of belonging for underrepresentedstudents can lead to stronger academic performanceand a stronger sense of cultural pride andconnectedness. It can also help combat issues likeimposter syndrome that many of these studentsexperience on independent school campuses. Let’sdiscuss how to foster this belonging in our own community. Cultivating Belonging to Support Overall StudentSuccess by Cassandra Fuenmayor: All of our voices matter when it comes to advocacy for diversity, equity and inclusion.Whether you are new to DEI conversations, or perhaps you just aren’t sure how to add tothese conversations, let’s come together to discuss our discomfort and the little steps wecan take to be an everyday ally. Discussion Space: How to Get Comfortable with Your Discomfort by Kelly Abbate: COACHES WORKSHOP This year, in collaboration with the Dean of School Life, the Sage Center Director facilitated aninteractive workshop for all of our Lightning coaches. Recognizing the strong foundations ourcoaches already bring to fostering positive team environments, this session offered space tocollaboratively explore real-time scenarios related to equity and team culture. Coaches engagedin thoughtful dialogue with one another, sharing insights and strategies to continue strengtheningthe sense of belonging and respect within their teams.SEEDOne of the most meaningful and sustainedprofessional development opportunities at Sagecontinues to be our SEED (Seeking Educational Equityand Diversity) program, which is embedded within thefaculty evaluation process to support growth in cross-cultural competency and self-reflection. Led by Deanof School Life, Dominic Campeau, and Sage CenterDirector, Sanan Shirinian, this peer-driven programbrings together a cohort of faculty and staff for sevensessions throughout the year. Together, participantsengage in deep reflection and dialogue aroundidentity, power, and systems - exploring topics suchas race, gender, class, language, and more. SEEDoffers a dedicated space for personal storytelling andcollective learning, helping educators develop theawareness and tools needed to foster more inclusiveand equitable classrooms and community spaces.Page 43

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A.I. + VR TRAININGThis school year was packed with A.I. training and integrations. At the start of the year duringopening meetings and in the first following weeks of school, each department receivedcustomized training from our Dean of Academic Technology on the state of A.I. and where it mightbe most useful for their content area. We focused on delivering meaningful integrations throughan all-in-one teacher tool called Khanmigo through the globally renowned Khan Academy. Inaddition to that, many more personalized tools have been rolled on a class-by-class basis,including A.I. detection tools to help ensure our learning environments remain people-centeredwhile incorporating approved usage of A.I. Additionally, we held an exciting A.I. ExplorationWorkshop this June focused on what the future of A.I. might look like within the next ten years. Theworkshop was well-attended by faculty, staff, and students alike and featured hands-onexperience with various platforms to explore the many capabilities of these versatile new tools. Throughout this year our Dean ofAcademic Technology hosted over 13 unique classroom experiences withvirtual reality at their center. FromWorld Language courses touring Parisand South America, to Biologystudents conducting comparativeanatomy labs between a real pig anda virtual human, VR has limitlesspotential to provide experientiallearning opportunities for studentsacross our circula. Each of theseunique experiences allows students to“leave” the classroom in favor ofgetting into the real world andengaging with content in dynamicways. Page 44

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POCC/SDLCBetween December 4-7, five student leaders fromSAME and nine Sage Hill faculty and staff memberstraveled to Denver, Colorado to participate in theannual NAIS People of Color (PoCC) & StudentDiversity Leadership Conference (SDLC). This conference brought together thousands ofIndependent School students and educators to buildcommunity around diversity, equity and inclusionwork. The theme of the conference this year wasMeeting the Moment: Anchoring and Enriching OurEducation Futures and it called upon “the presenceand strength of our ancestors and the vibrantimagination of the young and young at heart - bothare necessary to eradicate injustice and create theconditions for individuals, and our communities, tothrive.”Sage Hill School Counselor Anjali Sheth, who was partof the cohort of educators attending, noted:As a woman of color, attending PoCC was an emotional and enlighteningexperience. Having grown up without representation or diversity in theeducational setting and not realizing the impact, PoCC brought to light theimportance and value for all stakeholders in instilling diversity, equity andinclusion in the educational setting. Attending PoCC is something that I hopemore people are able to take advantage of.Student leader Maya Desai (‘27) also shared her reflection upon returning:SDLC gave me the opportunity to connect with students around the countrywho embraced and appreciated their identities like me. This experienceequipped me with skills such as facilitating diverse and inclusive conversationsin a classroom and learning how to bring more joy into DEI work as a SAMEmember. As someone who uses spoken word poetry as a platform to speak for others, I had the opportunity to personally meet keynote speaker Sekou Andrews, aworld renowned poet who has performed for audiences including BarackObama. Andrews has created his own form of motivational speaking, PoeticVoice, and his way of using diction for advocacy and empowerment reallyresonated with me. I felt inspired to meet someone who wrote similar creativework, and overall I loved the SDLC experience.Page 45

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To kick off the school year, the Sage Center collaborated with the Difficult Conversations Lab, aninitiative based in Columbia University’s Psychology Department that studies how people navigatechallenging dialogue. Students participated in a Zoom session with the lab coordinator anddoctoral student researcher, where they were introduced to the science behind effectivecommunication and conflict management. The session offered practical strategies for managingdifficult conversations, including recognizing power dynamics, using synchronous movement, andidentifying goals and boundaries within a discussion - all in service of developing what the labcalls Conflict Intelligence. DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS LABScan theQR Code towatch clipof his talkAs part of our ongoing effort to support thoughtful and productive dialogue, the Sage Centerpartnered with a leading national voice on civic discourse to engage our student leaders.Professor Lara Schwartz, founding director of American University's Project on Civic Dialogue, led aspecial session of their “Disagree with a Professor” program at Sage Hill. This workshop wasdesigned specifically for student leaders from SAME (Sage Advocates for Multicultural Education),who facilitate campus conversations through their Discussions Unfiltered lunch series.The goal of the workshop was to help students actively practice depolarized thinking, particularlyin preparation for academic life. Focusing on the theme of freedom of expression, the sessionchallenged participants to move beyond binary thinking and build skills for engaging in productivedialogue across differences.The very next day, SAME students put this work into action by hosting their second “DiscussionsUnfiltered” of the year, centered on the question: Who should control school curriculum?“Discussions Unfiltered” is a student-led series that creates space for civil, candid conversation ontopics such as feminism, free speech, affirmative action, and more.SAME executive member Sophie Kramer '25 said: DISAGREE WITH A PROFESSORThis reflects my desire to be a bridge builder and advocate for dialogue thatcultivates greater awareness, empathy, and understanding in others. Theseinitiatives have bolstered my belief in the power of diverse perspectives and theimportance of creating platforms where people can be engaged, educated, andempowered.Page 47

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It was really interesting seeing people discuss what qualifies as a mandatory oroptional class – should parents for instance, be able to take their children out ofclasses about race or sexuality if it discomforts them? My main takeaway was thatwe all wanted better, equitable education access but just disagreed on how. Iloved that we had the space to discuss these controversial ideas.Naomi Tran ‘25, who serves on the "Discussions Unfiltered" committee, reflected upon the lastsession and said, PARALYMPIAN DANA MATHEWSONIn collaboration with the Divergent AffinityGroup, the Sage Center hosted Paralympianand wheelchair tennis star Dana Mathewson foran inspiring lunchtime conversation withstudents. Dana shared her journey as aprofessional athlete, her experiences navigatingdisability and the mindset that has fueled hersuccess on and off the court. Her visit sparkedmeaningful dialogue around resilience,accessibility, and the power of representation insports and beyond. FRESHMAN WELLNESS DAYFreshman Wellness Day is an annual program dedicated to helping ninth grade students explorethe many dimensions of well-being including emotional, physical, social, and mental, as theybegin their high school journey. This year, the Sage Center contributed a session focused onWellness Through Purpose, inviting students to reflect on how a sense of meaning and directioncan support personal growth and resilience. Centered around open-ended dialogue, the sessionasked students to consider questions such as: What does it mean to be Sage smart? How do I findvalue in giving back? And how can I contribute to something greater than myself? CULTURAL AWARENESSAffinity Groups continued to foster cultural awareness and community during lunchtimegatherings. The Jewish Affinity Group hosted a Hanukkah celebration that invited peers to learnabout the holiday’s traditions, complete with festive treats and hands-on activities. During the spring, the MENA Affinity Group teamed up with the Dean of School Life to bring Hennaartists to Fantastic Friday, where community members not only enjoyed beautiful, intricate designsbut also learned about the cultural traditions, symbolism, and history of this centuries-old art form,practiced by people originating from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia.Page 48

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This year, the Sage Center Colloquium once againoffered dynamic mini-courses designed to deepenglobal awareness and foster a more nuancedunderstanding of the complex world we share.Designed as a three-part series, the 2025 colloquiumwas titled Diaspora Studies: In Search of Belonging andinvited participants to consider how identity,displacement, language and culture intersect indiasporic communities around the world. COLLOQUIUM DIASPORA STUDIES: IN SEARCH OF BELONGING Page 49

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SESSIONSThe first session, led by Sage Center DirectorSanan Shirinian, grounded participants in keyconcepts related to diaspora, transnationalism,and the meaning of home. Participantsunpacked the dynamic relationships betweendiasporic communities, their host nations, andancestral homelands. This session challengedparticipants to reflect on the complexities ofmultiple cultural affiliations and what it meansto “belong” in more than one place. The second session, Language & Politics, co-led by Sara Graham and Verginie Touloumian,explored how diasporas influence both cultural preservation and political transformation. The firsthalf focused on the role of language in maintaining identity across generations, with case studiesfrom Jewish and Creole communities. The second half turned to political advocacy, examininghow diasporas act as bridges between nations, leveraging cultural capital to influence policy, fundreform efforts, and shape public discourse across borders.The final session, Individual Stories and Plates, led by Matt Vadeboncoeur and MassimoNavarretta, emphasized the personal and the sensory. Participants used virtual reality to immersethemselves into refugee experiences that revealed the deeply individual dimensions of diaspora.The session concluded with a culinary exploration of the Italian diaspora’s influence on global foodtraditions via the preservation and evolution of Italian food and culture from ancient Napoli toNewport Coast. Stemming from Etruscans and Virgil to Queen Margherita and DOCG, the “Old andNew World”, broke bread over delicious focaccia caprese.We proudly recognize the following certificate recipients for their full participation and thoughtfulcontributions: Sophia Huang ’25, Nancy Sun ’26, and Librarian Michalle Gould.Page 50

2024-2025 Annual Report

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