The Path February 2025

An Albuquerque Academy Community Newsletter

Preparing for Life Beyond the Academy

College Toolkit Teaches Seniors Life Skills

Seniors set aside their usual classes for College Toolkit, a morning dedicated to preparing for life after the Academy. Through a series of faculty-led sessions, they explored practical skills and topics relevant to their transition beyond high school.

Students attended three sessions based on their interests, ranging from personal finance and self-defense to journaling, campus healthcare, and college cooking. Faculty instructors provided hands-on learning and valuable insights, equipping students with tools to navigate college – and beyond – with confidence.

Juniors Connect with Professionals on Career Day

Albuquerque Academy juniors got a glimpse into their futures at Career Day, when more than 55 professionals led 85 sessions covering fields like technology, healthcare, nonprofit leadership, and the arts. Students had the chance to ask questions, hear about real-world experiences, and consider a variety of career paths.

This experience was made possible by the generosity of community members and alumni who shared their time and expertise, helping to broaden students' perspectives and inspire their next steps. Their guidance helps shape students’ futures, giving them a deeper understanding of potential careers and the skills needed to pursue them.

Rachel Patton, librarian at Manzano Day School, shared the joys of working with young learners.

Tracy Weaver, executive director of Saranam, shared how her nonprofit empowers families to break the cycle of homelessness through housing, education, and support.

David Gibson, deputy labs director and COO at Sandia National Laboratories, spoke about innovation and leadership in national security and technology.

Charles Gamble, director of community engagement at Santa Fe Opera, gave students a glimpse into careers in the performing arts.

An Academy alum with the Federal Bureau of Investigation arranged for students to learn about his life as a special agent while getting some hands-on experience.

Betsy Joles ’13, an international journalist reporting for Bloomberg News, NPR, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, shared her experiences covering global stories from Asia.

LifeSport’s Kenth Fallen spoke about his work as a professional BMX athlete, Level 1 USA cycling coach, and trainer.

Dr. Kelly Caperton, Academy parent and president of Caperton Fertility Institute, discussed the intersection of medicine and technology in reproductive health.

Academy parent Michael Blackwell, managing director and financial advisor with Morgan Stanley, spoke with students about careers in financial planning.

Jeremy Greene ’78 highlighted careers in geosciences, recognizing the achievements of Claudia Mora ’76, dean of University of Texas’s Jackson School of Geosciences.

Kyle Menke, Disney storyboard artist, took students behind the scenes of his creative journey working on Phineas and Ferb, Monsters at Work, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

An Interpreter of Characters and Cuisine: Mark Tafoya ’89

By Ted Alcorn '01

Mark Tafoya could hardly be more deeply rooted to the Albuquerque Academy campus. Descended from Spanish settlers who arrived in the 1500s, his family was allotted territory as part of the Alameda and Atrisco land grants, as well as the Elena Gallegos land grant that underlies the school itself.

But arriving as a sixth grader, he still felt like an outsider.

“Ironically, there were very few people like me at the Academy,” he said. He was Hispanic and would eventually identify as queer, in a period when even gay and lesbian teachers were in the closet. His parents welcomed the financial aid that the school offered them but still struggled to afford the tuition.

Mark found his footing by trying to do everything. He ran track and wrestled. He edited the yearbook. He competed in speech and debate. The Academy’s team went to nationals his junior year, and although Mark got knocked out in the preliminary round, the point he earned put the school over the top. It was the first time the school had ever been number one nationwide.

Looking back decades hence, he feels like some of his enthusiasm came from a fierce desire to fit in and a fear that he didn’t belong. “I had to do everything and be really good at everything to justify my presence," he said. “It was a way of making up for a problem that wasn't really a problem.”

Whatever the motivator, it pushed him into some true passions. He studied French with Mme. Barbara Reeback and, under the tutelage of Mickey Prokopiak, performed in practically every school play. Those subjects would shape the course of his life. In college, he would major in French and theater studies, and, upon graduation, he taught French at a girl’s school on the Upper East Side of Manhattan as he threw himself into an acting career.

One of his proudest moments, he said, was when he was cast in a production of Inherit the Wind with George C. Scott, and Mickey Prokopiak and a class of Academy thespians were visiting New York City to attend. “I got to bring him backstage,” Mark recalled. “My high school teacher, the guy who introduced me to theater, who brought me on this path — and then he got to come and see me on Broadway.”

After 10 years of acting, when Mark came to feel it was time to move on, he felt prepared for that, too. “I'm someone who has spent my whole life exploring, trying out new things, and being willing to really pivot and shift and change and not be afraid to pursue what I liked.” His time at the Academy, in part, had given him confidence that he had the ability to learn and succeed at anything he put his mind to.

The pivot, for Mark, was to another passion – food. In the decades since, he has built a business as a personal chef, branching out for a time into producing podcasts and videos about food, and later specializing in preparing meals for people with special dietary needs. Recently, he settled into a steady position as the full-time chef for a wealthy family. Just like acting, he sees cooking as a form of artistic expression. “You’re an interpreter in both instances.”

To shine a light on the transformative power of tuition assistance, Alumni Council member Ted Alcorn ’01 is telling the stories of alumni who were grateful recipients during their Academy years.

6-7 Opera Club Revives a Student-Created Classic

Albuquerque Academy’s sixth- and seventh-grade performing arts students brought Spectrum: The Revival to life on the Simms Little Theatre stage. Written and composed by the Class of 2024, this student-created opera features an original script and music, celebrating the power of unity, diversity, and understanding, set against the backdrop of a distant planet. Under the direction of Rebecca Holmes and Edmund Connolly, and with help from Richard Hogle and Rachelanne Bradbury, the next generation of Opera Club students – the Classes of 2030 and 2031 – reimagined the production for a new audience.

Set on the planet Baktune, Spectrum tells the story of two rival factions – the scientifically minded Ordonese and the artistically driven Artemites. Their fragile peace shatters when Mercury, a shadowy figure representing propaganda and deception, ignites a war that lasts 15 years. Only when long-lost heirs Lux and Nova discover their shared history does hope for reconciliation emerge. With a message of empathy and collaboration, the opera underscores the power of unity and understanding.

This revival introduced new elements, including an upper school string quartet, enhancing the musical experience. And for those who enjoy a touch of humor, familiar faculty members took on the roles of gnomes – Mr. Grineen, Dr. Gnome Kinson, and Mr. Gnisher among them.

Philip Friedman Selected for Limitless Space Institute

Philip Friedman, a member of the Academy’s computer science department, has been selected as one of 15 educators nationwide to join the prestigious Limitless Space Institute. This yearlong program brings together educators from across the country to develop and test curriculum to help encourage the next generation of students to explore interstellar space travel. Participants will visit the institute in Houston for training.

“I had heard about the Limitless Space Institute from Paolo Oemig, the director of the New Mexico Space Grant Consortium,” said Philip. “He is involved in all things outer space for the state of New Mexico and is also very involved in STEAM education across the state.”

The selection process was highly competitive, requiring applicants to submit a short video explaining why they would be a strong candidate, along with a formal application. “There was only one spot available for a New Mexico educator, and I was up against other STEAM teachers from across the state.”

Philip looks forward to deepening his knowledge of interstellar travel and incorporating what he learns into his teaching. “I will be using the resources and lessons provided by the Limitless Space Institute for all the students in my STEAM classes this year and next. This is a great chance for Academy students to participate in the future and become inspired for their own studies beyond here at the Academy.”

The program is funded by a number of organizations, including the New Mexico Space Grant Consortium, a statewide collaboration with industry, government, and academic partners out of New Mexico State University, which ensures that a New Mexico teacher can take part.

Senior Studio’s Bold Exhibit

The hexagonal structure in Simms Library has sparked conversation since its installation, but it is more than just an eye-catching exhibit – it represents months of dedication by students in Albuquerque Academy’s new Senior Studio class. The interdisciplinary course, introduced this school year by the visual arts department, is a highly collaborative class focused on contemporary art practices. Their latest project, Transformation Through Perspective, is a collaborative exhibition that explores the ways physical and mental perspectives shape our experiences. Each artist has contributed a unique piece reflecting on personal themes such as childhood, family, and identity, creating a dynamic and thought-provoking display.

From conceptualization to installation, Senior Studio students have taken full ownership of the exhibit, curating and documenting the show entirely on their own. Their diverse skills – including pottery, screen printing, mixed media sculpture, and painting – come together in a cohesive exploration of transformation. The exhibit will remain on display until March 15.

Welcome Early-Decision Sixth Graders

We’re excited to welcome our early-decision sixth graders to Albuquerque Academy! There’s so much to look forward to, from the first morning meeting and Convocation to Homecoming, Community Day, and, of course, a taste of Munch pudding. Along the way, they’ll build friendships, discover new interests, and become part of the Academy’s rich traditions.

Many new families have already signed up for our free, weeklong Bridge to Success summer program designed for incoming sixth and seventh graders. It’s a great opportunity to help our newest Chargers feel right at home before starting school.

Welcome to the Albuquerque Academy family!

2025 Alumni Awards: Recognizing Those Who Make a Difference

Distinguished Alumni Award: Scott Elder ’85

The Alumni Council annually presents the Distinguished Alumni Award to an alum of the school in recognition of extraordinary achievement or service that exemplifies the principles and values of Albuquerque Academy.

Scott Elder ’85 has dedicated his career to education and community leadership. At the Academy, he was known for his humor, creativity, and deep involvement in the arts, particularly theater and speech and debate. He credits the school with teaching him to write effectively, think critically, and believe in himself. After earning degrees in political science, education, and business, Scott spent over 30 years with Albuquerque Public Schools, rising from teacher to superintendent, where he guided the district through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and a major cyber-attack. Now exploring innovations in AI and education, he continues to shape the future of learning. His impact has been recognized with the University of New Mexico’s Rodey Award and induction into the Anderson School of Management Hall of Fame.

Young Alumni Service Award: Jane Fazio ’08

Created by the Alumni Council to recognize notable service to the community and society that exemplifies the spirit of the Albuquerque Academy mission, the Young Alumni Service Award is presented to an alum age 35 or younger who has made significant personal achievements in serving the local, national, or international community.

Dr. Jane Fazio ’08 has been named the 2025 recipient for her groundbreaking work in public health and workplace safety. A pulmonary critical care physician at UCLA Medical Center, Dr. Fazio’s research has exposed the deadly risks of silica dust exposure among workers in the engineered stone industry, a preventable hazard disproportionately affecting immigrant Latino communities. Her advocacy is driving critical conversations on workplace safety and policy reform. She is also pursuing a Ph.D. in public health at UCLA and continues to support fellow Academy alumni facing medical challenges. Dr. Fazio’s dedication to research, advocacy, and compassionate care exemplifies the Academy’s mission of service and leadership.

Faculty Legacy Award: Sra. Cristina Quiroga

The Albuquerque Academy Alumni Council Faculty Legacy Award is given to a member of the Academy’s faculty who has rendered distinguished service to Albuquerque Academy and made a lasting impact either on the development of the school’s students or, through their dedication and leadership, has strengthened the school as an institution of learning for our community.

Maria Cristina Quiroga taught at the Academy for 32 years before retiring in 2019. After emigrating from Cuba as a young girl, Sra. Quiroga’s experiences shaped her deep commitment to community, culture, and education. She instilled in her students a love for the Spanish language, art, and hard work, while also supporting them beyond the classroom – attending their games, performances, and events. Her passion earned her national recognition, including the Distinguished Teacher Award from President Bill Clinton and the Academy’s Frank Slevin Teaching Award. Even during her illness, she remained dedicated to celebrating her students and colleagues. In recognition and in memory of her profound impact, the Alumni Council is honored to induct Sra. Quiroga into the Alumni Association posthumously.

In honor of Sra. Quiroga’s legacy, the Cristina Quiroga Memorial Fund has been established to provide financial aid scholarships for foreign language learners at Albuquerque Academy, helping students experience the transformative opportunity to study and travel abroad. If you would like to contribute to the fund, donations may be mailed to: The Cristina Quiroga Memorial Fund | c/o Albuquerque Academy | 6400 Wyoming Blvd NE | Albuquerque, NM 87109-3899. Alternatively, donations can be made online.

Alumni Council Awards and Hall of Fame Induction Dinner

Keith Lee ’29: National Civics Bee New Mexico Champ

“As global citizens, we should all contribute to protecting our environment and raising our voices for the Earth,” says Keith Lee ’29. After winning the state-level National Civics Bee®, he is representing New Mexico at nationals! Inspired by his seventh-grade history teacher, Jacob Herrin, Keith explored civic engagement and used his voice to advocate for community gardens. His essay tackled a critical issue: how local governments and communities can work together to fight climate change.

Campus Spotlight: Tennis

Join Us for Alumni Weekend September 19-20, 2025!

The full schedule of events for Alumni Weekend 2025 is now available, so start planning your return to campus for a weekend filled with nostalgia, fun family activities, and opportunities to reconnect.

If your class year ends in 0 and 5, consider helping coordinate a class-specific reunion! The Classes of 1970, 1975, 1990, 1995, and 2015 still need reunion coordinators. If you are interested, please contact alumnicouncil@aa.edu.

On March 13, the Alumni Council will host a virtual information session for reunion team members, and we hope to have representation from all benchmark reunion years. Even if a formal reunion isn’t planned for your class, there are still plenty of ways to reconnect – take a campus tour, enjoy activities, or join us for an evening gathering with fellow Chargers.

Don’t miss this chance to relive cherished memories and strengthen old connections. Mark your calendars!

Four Chargers Qualify for AIME

Based on their high scores on the AMC10 or AMC12 competitions, Iris Huang ’30, Arjun Grandhe ’27, Aarush Tutiki ’26, and Akilan Sankaran ’25 have qualified for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), a selective and prestigious 15-question, three-hour test.

Learn more about the AIME here.

Celebrating the Harlem Renaissance and Black History Month

February is Black History Month, a time to honor the contributions, achievements, and histories of Black individuals and communities. At Albuquerque Academy, we are recognizing this important month with a special division-time performance and a Harlem Renaissance-themed library display.

We were honored to welcome Marilyn Bernard (former faculty member and parent), Natalie Barrens-Rogers '95 (alum and parent), Richard Powdrell, and Paul Roth for a performance celebrating the legacy of the Harlem Renaissance through music and poetry. Featuring the powerful words of Langston Hughes and works by Harlem Renaissance composers and those they influenced, the program concluded with a communal singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

If you haven't yet explored the Harlem Renaissance-themed library display, assembled by the African American Parent Council, we encourage you to stop by Simms Library. The display, available through next week, features a diverse collection of books and memorabilia that celebrate Black voices, stories, and experiences—an opportunity to engage with history and broaden perspectives.

Exploring the World: A Charger’s Year in Spain

Motivated by a desire to step outside his routine, experience a higher level of soccer, and improve his Spanish, Gian Hwang ’26 has embraced the opportunity to study abroad. Gian is about halfway through his academic year in Zaragoza, Spain – an opportunity made possible by Albuquerque Academy’s international exchange program.

Since arriving in Spain, Gian has seen a dramatic improvement in his language skills. "Before I came, my Spanish skills were honestly terrible,” he admits. “Now, I can speak comfortably, use colloquial terms, and even write essays, stories, and text.”

Beyond language, studying abroad has offered Gian new perspectives. One of his most memorable experiences was an independent trip to Barcelona, where he stayed in a hostel and connected with travelers from across the world, finding a way to communicate using a mix of body language, English, and Spanish. “It was amazing to see how alike we all were even though we were all from different places."

While he misses casual hangouts with friends and the convenience of Chipotle, Gian has grown to love the walkability of Spanish cities and his daily visits to a corner store called El Rincón. His advice to fellow Chargers considering studying abroad? "Be open to saying yes more."

If Gian’s story piques your interest, you might enjoy reading about the adventures abroad of Blaise Gonzales-Smith ’25 and Lilee Zapata ’25 in The Advocate.

Scenes from Gian's Year Abroad

This image is the view I have from my bathroom window, and it was the first picture I took in Zaragoza."

This is a photo of me and my friends at an FC Barcelona game when we went on an independent travel trip to Barcelona."

This is my host brother cutting my hair. He is 15 years old and wants to be a barber, and he cuts most of the hair of my male classmates as well as some of my soccer teammates."

Here’s me with some friends on a school trip to Castillo de Loarre."

These images were taken in Navaleno, Spain. My host family has a house in that pueblo."

This is the Basilica del Pilar in Plaza del Pilar which is the main center area of Zaragoza."

While in Barcelona, I stopped by to see the incredible Basílica de la Sagrada Família."

Here’s my soccer team in the locker room after we won the league."

With some friends when we went on a school trip to Oliete where we planted olive trees"

More Than a School – A Lifelong Network

Albuquerque Academy’s regional reception in Washington, D.C., brought together more than 65 alumni and friends, spanning graduating classes from 1977 to 2024. The evening was filled with engaging conversations, reconnections, and reflections on how an Academy education continues to shape lives and careers.

Attendees represented a wide range of fields, including medicine, law, education, government, and global security. Among them were an emergency medicine physician and medical school faculty member, a restorative justice educator and consultant, a global security expert and National Security Institute fellow, an economist for the Congressional Research Service, Georgetown University’s undergraduate director of art history, Georgetown’s men’s soccer head coach, an assault helicopter pilot (and first woman to score points for the Chargers’ football team!), a senior partner specializing in global energy and materials, a National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency deputy director, a speech and language specialist for public schools, a retired lieutenant colonel, attorneys specializing in privacy and antitrust, and an MBA student. Despite their varied careers, they share a commitment to excellence and service.

Events like these showcase the strength of the Academy’s alumni network, proving that no matter where life takes our graduates, they remain connected by shared experiences and values. If you’re interested in organizing a formal or informal meet-up in your city, the alumni engagement team is here to help – email alumni@aa.edu to start planning. We are grateful to everyone who joined us in D.C. and look forward to more opportunities to connect!

Academy Chess Continues Its Winning Streak at State

The high school chess team clinched its third straight state championship at the 2025 NMAA 4A/5A State High School Team Chess Tournament in Las Cruces on February 6-7. The team opened with a 3-3 tie against Los Alamos but won its remaining matches – sweeping Santa Teresa 6-0 and defeating Centennial and La Cueva 4-2 – to finish in first place with a match score of 3.5 out of 4.

High school team members include:

Mark Goldman ’29
Arjun Grandhe ’27
Dhruv Grandhe ’25
Dana Poon ’26
Marcelo Tohen ’26
Aarush Tutiki ’26
JR Zhao ’27

Alternates Aravind Chary ’25 and Daniel Luo ’25 competed in an individual side tournament, tying for first and second place, respectively.

Academy’s middle school team placed third in its division at the state competition. Coached by Christian von Huene and sponsored by Orlando Leyba, the middle school team includes:

Aadit Balwan ’31
Zoheb Barrantes ’31
Oscar Iglesias-Flores ’31
Nikhil Roy ’31
Laasya Tutiki ’29

A separate scholastic tournament in March or April will determine individual state champions.

Academy Athletics News

Swim and Dive Teams Bring Home Blue Trophies

The Chargers dominated the pool over back-to-back weekends, capturing district and state titles in record-setting fashion. Both teams secured top finishes at districts, with the boys setting a new district record in the 200 Medley Relay.

At state, the girls' team claimed its ninth consecutive championship—a new record—while the boys secured their first state title since 2017. In a historic feat, the Chargers won all six relays—the 200 Medley, 200 Free, and 400 Free for both girls and boys—marking the first time in recent memory the program has accomplished this sweep. "Winning all six relays is no small feat," noted Coach Bob Anderson.

Chargers Wrestle Their Way to State Podium

Charger wrestling finished the season strong with four Chargers earning podium finishes at the state championship in their weight classes. Charger wrestling finished the season strong, with four Chargers earning podium finishes at the state championship in their weight classes. Vivi Popadiuc ’29 and Isaiah Rivera ’26 placed second, while Zac Fernandez ’25 and Maile Maldonado ’25 finished in third.

At regionals, Vivi and Maile earned regional runner-up titles, helping the girls' team secure second place out of 35 teams. On the boys' side, Isaiah and Zac were crowned 4A regional champs. "Regionals are tougher now with only two regions instead of five districts," said Coach Ted Alley. "But our athletes stepped up."

Academy Students Visit the Roundhouse for Cultural Days

Over two weeks in February, Academy students, faculty, and parents traveled to Santa Fe to participate in Asian American, Pacific Islander & Native Hawaiian Day, American Indian Day, Hispanic Culture Day, and African American Day at the Roundhouse.

These special days, held during New Mexico’s legislative session, provide an incredible opportunity for students to engage with the legislative process, connect with lawmakers, and celebrate the rich cultural contributions of these communities. Students observed legislative proceedings, met with state representatives, attended special luncheons, and, in some cases, even took part in performances.

“A huge thank you to our parent councils for organizing these experiences and to Rep. Pamelya Herndon and Rep. Reena Szczepanski for graciously hosting our students,” said Director of Diversity, Culture, and Belonging Peter Gloyd. “We’re fortunate to have these events that put a spotlight on culture and communities in New Mexico. They allow our students to get a glimpse of how state government works, have their cultures recognized, and enjoy some camaraderie and bonding.”

Lunar New Year Parade Brings Festive Energy to Campus

The Academy community celebrated the Lunar New Year with a vibrant parade along the Path. The event, which began at the Natatorium and made its way to the East Campus Quad, culminated in a Lion Dance performance near the arches.

The Quang Minh Lion Dance Group, known for their energetic and skillful performances, entertained the crowd with their talent. Students and faculty enjoyed the festive atmosphere, complete with decorated cart floats, music, and treats. The celebration was made possible through the support of the Asian American Parent Council and the East Asian Affinity Group.

Looking Ahead

Mark your calendars for the Fourth Annual LunarFest in late March! This special event will feature a diverse array of performances celebrating Asian cultures and will be open to the public; more details to come.

Did You Know?

The 2025 Lunar New Year began on January 29, ushering in the Year of the Snake – a symbol of adaptability, transformation, growth, and renewal. Lunar New Year is celebrated by many Asian communities around the world, each bringing unique traditions to this meaningful occasion.

MathCounts Team Takes First, Qualifies for State

The Academy’s MathCounts team advances to the state competition after taking first at the Albuquerque Chapter Competition on February 15. Mark Goldman, Susheer Paladugu, Keith Lee, and Iris Huang were on the official Academy team while the remaining competed only as individuals.

“All ten students represented our school well,” says team advisor Phihoang Nelson.

Sai-Megha Alavala ’30
Mark Goldman ’29 – 8th place individual, sprint and target rounds
Julian Hu ’29
Iris Huang ’30 – 1st place individual, sprint and target rounds; 2nd place, countdown round
Oscar Iglesias ’31
Anna Kalugin ’30
Keith Lee ’29 – 10th place individual, sprint and target rounds
Susheer Paladugu ’29 – 6th place individual, sprint and target rounds
Sahana Paruchuri ’30
Elena Schwarz ’30

Upcoming Events

Celebrate the Garcia Family’s Legacy at the Darell Gage Courts and Vincent Cordova Summer Scholars Dedication | March 29

Join us in celebrating the Garcia Family’s generous $1 million gift at the Albuquerque Academy Racquet Center on Saturday, March 29, at 10 a.m. Their support honors beloved faculty members Vincent Cordova and Darell Gage and benefits the Vincent Cordova Summer Scholars program and the Darell Gage Courts.

The Vincent Cordova Summer Scholars Program provides a full-scholarship summer experience, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and cultural appreciation. The Racquet Center’s Darell Gage Courts offer year-round racquet sports programming, featuring 14 refurbished tennis courts and eight dedicated pickleball courts.

Kindly RSVP by March 19.

GrandDays | March 31 & April 1 | Register Your Guests by March 13

We are excited to welcome grandparents and grandfriends to campus this spring for a special day of fun, community engagement, and connection. GrandDays is a cherished annual tradition, and the 2025 event promises to be a memorable experience featuring student performances, fun classroom activities, and a delicious meal together.

GrandDays will take place over two days:

Monday, March 31: Grades 6-7
Tuesday, April 1: Grades 8-12

Families: Please register your parents or family friends by March 13. ONLY Academy parents and guardians can access the registration system.

Families who register will receive an email with additional event details after Spring Break. If you or your guests have any questions about GrandDays, please contact advancement@aa.edu or (505) 828-3281.

Spring Day of Giving | Celebrating 50 Years of Bear Canyon | April 2

For five decades, Albuquerque Academy has been a dedicated steward of Bear Canyon, providing students with a space for outdoor learning, reflection, and discovery. Through the Academy’s outdoor education program, now known as Ex Ed, students have gained hands-on experiences that build resilience, leadership, and a deep appreciation for the environment. On Wednesday, April 2, we proudly celebrate this legacy during our Spring Day of Giving, marking 50 years of exploration and education in this cherished natural space.

We invite our Academy community – families, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends – to help us reach our goal of $175,000 from 550 unique gifts to ensure future generations can continue to learn and grow in Bear Canyon. Share your Ex Ed memories using #50YearsOfBearCanyon, #SpringDayofGiving, or email us at advancement@aa.edu. Join us on April 2 and make a gift to strengthen the Academy experience, and celebrate this milestone in our school’s history!

Levanta Concert | Alfred Hitchcock’s The Lodger: A Story of the London Fog | April 5 at 7 p.m. | Simms Center for the Performing Arts

This thrilling cinematic experience will feature a live score composed by Austin-based composer Joe V. Williams II, performed by world-renowned cellist Michal Stein and an acclaimed guitar quartet consisting of Scott Borg, Adam Levin, Matthew Rohde, and Mickey Jones.

Reserve your tickets now.

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