In July, we were thrilled to welcome José Leonor to our Rainier Scholars team as our new Major Gifts Officer. A longtime fan and supporter of Rainier Scholars, José brings a wealth of experience in organizational equity and cultivating academic and leadership potential. He has previously served as Middle School Director at The Bush School and Founding Director of Middle School & Associate Head of School at Thaden School, where he played a pivotal role in program development, family engagement, and community relations. José’s deep personal connection to college access—having been a Prep for Prep scholar himself—fuels his passion for Rainier Scholars’ mission.
Learn more about José in his own words:
Tell us about your Rainier Scholars journey. What brought you to Rainier Scholars?
I had been following the organization carefully since I moved to the Pacific Northwest five years ago. As a product of Prep for Prep, I know firsthand the transformative power of programs like ours at Rainier Scholars, and I wanted to be involved. I feel lucky to come to work everyday and be part of a team that I’ve admired for such a long time.
For people not familiar, tell us more about Prep for Prep.
Prep for Prep is a New York City-based program that identifies and prepares students for placement in leading independent schools and beyond. I was accepted as a 5th grader going into 6th grade. That first 14-month program involved a lot of extra schooling to prepare us for success in middle school and beyond. I loved school and I loved reading–I was a bit of a nerd that way–so I didn’t mind sacrificing summers to have meaty conversations and learn with my cohort.
And just like at Rainier Scholars, the Prep for Prep program was truly transformative. I was able to take advantage of not just those 14-months, but of ongoing support. I went to an independent school from 7th-12th grade, then onto Princeton for my undergrad. All the while, I continued to participate in regular leadership development opportunities. I used their academic and counseling support during high school and college. It remains an incredible program, and it’s exciting to see Rainier Scholars support young scholars in the Puget Sound today.
That experience continues to impact my life to this day. Many of my closest friends came out of the Prep for Prep program.
You were a teacher before. How does that impact your approach to your role?
Before joining RS, I worked for 17 years as a teacher and a Middle School principal. I taught French, English, Spanish, and Film, but my focus was English Literature.
In the context where I taught and led, it’s very clear that kids don’t all start from the same place. Whether it’s the situation at home, socioeconomic barriers, or neurological profiles, I know the importance and impact of meeting people where they are. Because of that experience, I share the Rainier Scholars’ passion for learning and educational equality.
I also have a strong passion for building relationships and community, which is at heart the work of the Advancement Team. As Major Gifts Officer my role is to connect people with the organization and amplify the great work of Rainier Scholars. I get to bring people into the fold, which is exciting. And even though I know how much work goes into an organization like this, I am still floored and impressed by the people I work with. Everyone cares so deeply about this work, is super passionate, and is intent on being in community. It makes me feel very at home here. I hope to help our donors find that sense of purpose and belonging with the org as well.
How do you support the mission of our organization?
I’m part of the team responsible fo funding the mission and connecting donors with the opportunity to support the transformational experiences we offer. And that’s pretty cool.
What are some words of advice you might offer to your younger, middle-school aged self?
Shave that moustache! I’m kidding (mostly). I would say: life is big, growth is messy, and time picks up speed and slows down. Take your time and stay curious.
If Rainier Scholars was a book title, what would it be?
Be Your Dream.
What is something that made you smile recently?
I feel like I’ve said it already, but I love the Advancement Team. The group shares a strong care for people with curiosity and good humor. I love that laughter is always right around the corner.
What is the coolest personal project you are working on?
I love video editing, and I’ve been working on a video project to capture stories from my family. Someday I may turn it into something bigger.