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Hillmen Foundation
HILLMEN
FOUNDATION
Enriching Placer High for the Greater Auburn
Community…and Beyond
HILLMEN
FOUNDATION
Enriching Placer High for the Greater Auburn
Community…and Beyond
WELCOME
THIS IS HILLMEN COUNTRY
Nestled in the heart of downtown Auburn is one of the most historic and beautiful high schools in California. For more than 125 years, Placer High School – home of the Hillmen – has been an integral part of Greater Auburn. It is exceptionally woven into the very fabric of our community – educationally, culturally, socially, and economically.
Providing the margin of excellence between state funding and an outstanding learning environment is the Hillmen Foundation, an independent, all-volunteer nonprofit organization. Supported by generous alumni, businesses, civic groups, and community donors, the Hillmen Foundation benefits all students in the areas of academics, athletics and activities. It also serves as the alumni association for Placer High, connecting generations of graduates with those who shaped their most memorable teen years.
HIDDEN HILLMEN
JOIN THE HUNT FOR HIDDEN HILLMEN!
"Have you heard of 'Where's Waldo'? Well, now it's time to play 'Hidden Hillmen' on our website!
We've hidden our mascot in different corners of five unique pages. Some easier than others, so keep your eyes peeled!
Find all five Hidden Hillmen and then make your way to our 'Hidden Hillmen' page to complete the submission form. For each correct answer, you'll earn an entry into our fantastic prize draw. A total of six entries are up for grabs - one for submitting the form and one for each of your correct findings.
Just remember, the Home Page and the 'Hidden Hillmen' Page are not where our mascots are hiding. Good luck and happy hunting!"
If you need any hints you can find some fun riddles on the Hidden Hillmen Page. Click the bottom below to find the hints.
OUR FOCUS
IMPACT AREAS
ACADEMICS
Ensuring students have an exceptional learning environment that propels them into successful futures beyond high school is at the heart of the Hillmen Foundation’s mission.
ATHLETICS
Promoting athletic achievement and life-long health are important legacies of Placer High, the Auburn community, and the Hillmen Foundation.
ACTIVITIES
Advancing a well-rounded education requires enrichment beyond the classroom, including programs supporting at-risk youth, student clubs, campus activities, leadership opportunities, and so much more.
ALUMNI
Connecting generations of alumni with the Auburn community and those who shaped their formative teen years at Placer High is an important objective of the Hillmen Foundation.
SPECIAL PROJECTS & INITIATIVES
Enriching Placer High through modernized equipment, improved facilities, strategic programs and special projects helps our school and community thrive.
IN THEIR WORDS
THE IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY
The Hillmen Foundation has provided the music program countless instruments that we would otherwise have been unable to provide our students. Vibraphone, Marimba, Marching snare drums, professional Bach trumpets and more have given our students the opportunity to excel and bring up the quality of our program. The Foundation has been incredible to work with for my 17 years at Placer. I have never seen an organization that does more for a school.
Dave Lawrenson
Music Director
Last term I had the pleasure of taking Mrs. Gardetto’s marine biology class, which was very exciting for me as I am taking up a career in this field. This class gives me a head start and an idea of where I want to work towards. This Marine Biology class has provided us with a unique opportunity to explore and understand the captivating world beneath the ocean's surface. One of the most significant aspects of this class is the hands-on experience it offers. Through field trips, laboratory experiments, and interactions with marine experts, we have been able to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to real-world scenarios. Amazingly, the Hillmen Foundation's support has allowed for chartering a bus to see the Northern Elephant Seals at Ano Nuevo State Park. Hiking with a ranger volunteer in close proximity to so many of these unique marine mammals was truly inspiring and life-changing. Thank you Hillmen Foundation for making this experience possible for Placer High School Marine Biology students.
Anna Wilson
Class of 2025
The Hillmen Foundation has played a vital role in supporting Placer High School Athletics. Like everything else, the cost of maintaining a high-quality athletic program is rising. The Hillmen Foundation has helped us maintain the standard of excellence in athletics that has become the norm here at Placer. From upgrading our scoreboard in Lefebvre Stadium to providing new golf bags for our boys and girls; golf programs and helping to defray the cost of replacing safety equipment for football, the Hillmen Foundation has supported Placer High School Athletics for decades. I have been a teacher and coach at Placer for 31 years, and the impact of the Hillmen Foundation can be seen in all aspects of Placer High School. I do not know of another community-based organization that does as much for its school as the Hillmen Foundation does for Placer.
Mike Sabins
Athletic Director/Class of 1984
Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics has been an experience and one that I don't think I will forget. I get to learn and hear about different ways people were taught. I get to see their point of view and everyone has a voice. I personally, as well as my classmates, get to know each other better and that helps us learn. When I go to other classes I hope I can have the same amazing experience.
Kaylee Woodland
Class of 2028
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Hillmen Foundation
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WE CANNOT DO IT WITHOUT YOU!
YOUR FINANCIAL IMPACT
Every donation, regardless of size, will positively impact Placer High students, our community, and life on the Hill. All contributions to
the Hillmen Foundation are tax deductible in accordance with state and federal tax laws.
$983,444
TOTAL IMPACT AS OF JUNE 30, 2024, INCLUDING...
$691,719
GRANTS PROGRAMS, INCLUDING...
$198,560
ACADEMICS
$99,004
ATHLETICS
$64,610
ACTIVITIES
$24,736
ALUMNI
$304,809
SPECIAL PROJECTS & INITIATIVES
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM*
$291,725
TOTAL AWARDED
23
CURRENT SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
$31,000
FOR 2024 GRADS
*Scholarships include Foundation-sponsored and Endowments with the Hillmen Foundation
EVENTS
THE HILLMEN HAPPENINGS
Explore The Hillmen Foundation's coming events, uniting a passionate community supporting
Placer High School.
Placer High School Veterans
Since its founding in 1897, Placer High School has sent forth generations of graduates and students who have not only excelled in academics, athletics, and community service, but who have also answered the call to serve and protect our country. From World War I to recent conflicts, Placer alumni have bravely stepped forward, often in times of great uncertainty and sacrifice, to defend our freedoms. As we mark Veterans Day, we honor the legacy of those who have served, especially those who gave their lives in service to our nation.
Placer High has been home to remarkable individuals who made their mark both on and off the battlefield. Among our most notable alumni are two legendary World War II pilots. Colonel Clarence “Bud” Anderson was a three-time WWII flying ace who flew 116 combat missions. Commander Dean “Diz” Laird was the only US Naval ace to have combat victories in both the Pacific and European theaters. Both were classmates who graduated from Placer in 1939 and lifelong friends who became icons of aerial heroism. Each man lived to be more than 100 years old. Their courage and skill have become part of Placer High’s storied history and Auburn history, exemplifying the spirit of resilience and dedication that defines our school and community. These Veterans serve as a reminder of the bravery and tenacity shown by so many Placer graduates over the past 127 years.
In addition to well-known Veterans like Anderson and Laird, the legacy of service is proudly upheld by members of the Hillmen Foundation Board of Directors. Jim Barker, class of 1963, served in the Marines as tensions in Vietnam were leading to war, representing the steadfast determination and duty exemplified by so many of his generation. Dan Luper, class of 1979, committed a decade of service in the Air Force, contributing to the protection and strength of our nation’s defense. And Melany Paul Hall, class of 1992, served as an Army Captain in Iraq, continuing a proud tradition of Hillmen serving across all branches of the military. Each of these alumni reflects the Foundation’s mission of supporting Placer High School, and each brings a perspective shaped by their unique experiences in the armed forces. We invite you to read about their service in the profiles below.
Melany Paul Hall, class of 1992, served as an Army Captain in Iraq
Veterans Day is not only an occasion to honor those who served but to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their courage, whether on the front lines or in supporting roles, has helped protect and preserve the values we hold dear. We at the Hillmen Foundation are profoundly grateful for their service, as well as those currently serving. We strive to ensure their legacy lives on, both in our remembrance and in our support for future generations of Placer students.
Dan Luper, class of 1979, committed a decade of service in the Air Force
BLOG
THE HILLMEN HUB
Explore Placer High School's vibrant academics, activities, and athletics, keeping you connected to the staff, students, and valued alumni, uniting a passionate community supporting the school.
Placer High School Veterans
Since its founding in 1897, Placer High School has sent forth generations of graduates and students who have not only excelled in academics, athletics, and community service, but who have also answered the call to serve and protect our country. From World War I to recent conflicts, Placer alumni have bravely stepped forward, often in times of great uncertainty and sacrifice, to defend our freedoms. As we mark Veterans Day, we honor the legacy of those who have served, especially those who gave their lives in service to our nation.
Placer High has been home to remarkable individuals who made their mark both on and off the battlefield. Among our most notable alumni are two legendary World War II pilots. Colonel Clarence “Bud” Anderson was a three-time WWII flying ace who flew 116 combat missions. Commander Dean “Diz” Laird was the only US Naval ace to have combat victories in both the Pacific and European theaters. Both were classmates who graduated from Placer in 1939 and lifelong friends who became icons of aerial heroism. Each man lived to be more than 100 years old. Their courage and skill have become part of Placer High’s storied history and Auburn history, exemplifying the spirit of resilience and dedication that defines our school and community. These Veterans serve as a reminder of the bravery and tenacity shown by so many Placer graduates over the past 127 years.
In addition to well-known Veterans like Anderson and Laird, the legacy of service is proudly upheld by members of the Hillmen Foundation Board of Directors. Jim Barker, class of 1963, served in the Marines as tensions in Vietnam were leading to war, representing the steadfast determination and duty exemplified by so many of his generation. Dan Luper, class of 1979, committed a decade of service in the Air Force, contributing to the protection and strength of our nation’s defense. And Melany Paul Hall, class of 1992, served as an Army Captain in Iraq, continuing a proud tradition of Hillmen serving across all branches of the military. Each of these alumni reflects the Foundation’s mission of supporting Placer High School, and each brings a perspective shaped by their unique experiences in the armed forces. We invite you to read about their service in the profiles below.
Melany Paul Hall, class of 1992, served as an Army Captain in Iraq
Veterans Day is not only an occasion to honor those who served but to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their courage, whether on the front lines or in supporting roles, has helped protect and preserve the values we hold dear. We at the Hillmen Foundation are profoundly grateful for their service, as well as those currently serving. We strive to ensure their legacy lives on, both in our remembrance and in our support for future generations of Placer students.
Dan Luper, class of 1979, committed a decade of service in the Air Force
In the best of times, in the worst of times, at all times… It’s great to be a Hillman!
OUR MISSION
The purpose of the Hillmen Foundation is to support Placer High School in the areas of academics, student activities, and athletics, including the staff, students, and alumni endeavors of the school; to stimulate gifts of service, endowments, and bequests; and to maintain an association of persons interested in Placer High School.
FOCUS
Academics
Athletics
Activities
Alumni
Special Projects & Initiatives
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