Donor Spotlight: Buddenhagen-Wiesmann Family

At French International, we are proud to have devoted parents, faculty, staff, alumni, and grandparents committed to positively shaping our school and enriching the student experience. LaGazette features families who donate to the Annual Fund, give their time with volunteer hours, and why they support French International.

Jennifer and Kevin's journey with French International began three years ago when their oldest daughter, Alika, entered sixth grade. Kaiya, their second daughter, entered sixth grade this school year. They decided to join French International because they wanted "a school with strong academics and a successful IB language program. French International checked off all those boxes for us and has proved to be so much more!". 

Jennifer is no stranger to positively impacting French International. As this year's Gala Chair, she was the heart of the Gala, with support from the Gala Committee and the Development team. 

As this year's Gala Chair, what inspired you to become involved with French
International's Annual Gala?

"I love giving back to my community and planning events! As parent volunteers, we all bring what we can to the Gala, and a successful event is only possible with a strong team. In my role as Gala Chair for 'Studio '79: Voyage dans les temps,' I have been constantly inspired by the generosity, creativity, and talent of our incredible volunteer team and the hardworking staff at French International!"

Could you share a memorable moment or story from your experience as
the Gala Chair?

"When chairing any event, my favorite moment is walking through the space just before the doors open, anticipating the guest's arrival, and admiring the culmination of many months of hard work. For this year's French International Annual Gala, that moment of quiet reflection was topped when I saw the guests dressed up in thematic outfits, and their excitement and enthusiasm filled the room!"

Since joining the French International community, Jennifer and Kevin have been dedicated supporters of the Special Appeal. For the second year in a row, all proceeds from the Special Appeal go directly to Financial Aid.

What contributed to your decision to donate to the Special Appeal?

"Having worked in non-profits for many years, I understand the importance of giving, not only for the bottom line but also for the organization's overall strength. I believe that a generous and involved community benefits everyone at French International. If we as parents give back to our school, it paves the way for more support from granting agencies and private and corporate donors."

Why is supporting financial aid for students important to your family?

"Giving to our children's school is important to our family, no matter what the ask is for. At French International, our kids benefit from smaller class sizes, a strong community, and child-focused learning. We hope that by supporting financial aid, more families can access this high-quality learning environment."

Thanks to the support of our community, we raised more than $250,000 for Financial Aid. Our investment in Financial Aid has doubled over the past six years, and these funds will ultimately help us expand access to French International, enrich our school culture, and enhance the experience for every student. 

What message would you like to share with our community about the importance of supporting French International?

"Giving to French International at any level is valuable! Every gift counts! We are all fortunate to be part of this incredible school. Broader participation in giving helps grow stronger programs and more varied offerings and supports the success of every student!"

On behalf of all of us at French International, we are humbled by your generosity, volunteerism, and financial support of Special Appeal. Jennifer and Kevin, thank you for your unwavering support! 

What is your favorite, or proudest, French International moment?

"We were fortunate to host an exchange student from Chile in the fall. It was a whirlwind two weeks and a wonderful experience for the whole family. I remember the eagerness of our family, welcome signs in hand, as we awaited the arrival of the students. Our oldest daughter, Alika, will get to go to Chile in just a couple of weeks for her eighth-grade trip, and we are grateful to French International for nurturing these enriching experiences for its students."

What are you the most excited about regarding the future of French International?

"What an exciting time to be part of French International! Our two older children, Alika (8th grade) and Kaiya (6th) are fortunate enough to enjoy classes in the new Middle School building. We are excited to see all the plans for the reconfigured campus and new lower school buildings as French International expands its facilities for our vibrant and diverse school community."