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.
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
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.
A Night to Remember: Tailgater 2024
A Night to Remember: Tailgater 2024
There’s something special about fall in Auburn— the crisp evening air, the buzz of excitement, and the undeniable energy that comes with football season. But on Friday, September 13, 2024, we cranked that feeling up to 11 with our annual Tailgater! If you were lucky enough to join us at School Park Preserve, you know exactly what we’re talking about.
It’s More Than Just a Game – It’s Community
Our Tailgater isn’t just about football (although, let’s be honest, we were all pumped to see the Hillmen take on the Antelope Titans). It’s about celebrating the heart of what makes Placer High so special—our community. From alumni to parents, local businesses to die-hard fans, this event brought together the very people who make Auburn feel like home.
The night kicked off at 5:00 PM, and boy, did it set the tone! With tables full of familiar faces and the savory scent of barbecue filling the air, it felt like one giant family reunion. Special shoutout to Local Heroes for the mouth-watering BBQ dinner! Those burgers and homemade potato chips? We’re still dreaming about them.
And thank you to Raley’s for donating a gift card for bottled waters, and Save-Mart for a generous gift card to cover the cost of their yummy cookies.
Raise a Glass to Good Times!
We also want to tip our hats to Vina Castellano Winery and Crooked Lane Brewery. Their local wines and craft beers were the perfect complement to the evening. It was also great to have former board member and Vina Castellano owner Teena Mendez Wilkins and her hubby pouring their wines and continuing to support the Foundation’s efforts to enrich Placer High.
Speaking of special moments, it was amazing to welcome back the Class of 1994 as they kicked off their 30th Class Reunion with us. To all the ‘94 grads: you sure know how to get the party started! It was heartwarming to see them reconnect, swapping stories and laughter that felt like no time had passed at all. It’s a beautiful reminder of how deep Placer’s roots go.
Celebrating 35 Years of the Hillmen Foundation
But this Tailgater had even more reason to celebrate! This year marked the 35th anniversary of the Hillmen Foundation, and we partied like it was 1989. We honored the legacy of our founders, Jug Covich and Tom Johnson, whose vision back in ’89 created this incredible organization. Through their foresight—and the generosity of our community—our foundation continues to provide that extra "margin of excellence" that keeps Placer High thriving in academics, athletics, and activities.
A Huge Thank You to Our Tailgater Partners
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the incredible support from our community. Whether you were a sponsor or major donor, or attended the event to share in the fun, you made this night one for the books. We are so grateful to everyone who contributed—especially our Tailgater Partners who went above and beyond. You truly helped make this evening unforgettable.
Champion
Special Friend of the Hillmen Foundation
Gold
Claire Haydon Christensen & Family
FAMFest/Creative Music Services
Kathy Sands & Family
Green
Auburn Medical Group: Mark Vaughan, MD & G. Gawayne Vaughan, MD
Gold Country Stoves
Boosters
Friends of Alice Dowdin Calvillo for Auburn City Council
Shana Fain McDonald & Family
Re-elect Supervisor Cindy Gustafson
Alicia Kellie
Lightfoot Truck Repair
David & Nancy Odom
Peters Engineering
Fans
Collins & Collins
Bob Haydon & Family
And to all who came out to celebrate? You are the heartbeat of the Hillmen Foundation. Without your spirit and support, we wouldn’t have the vibrant, thriving community that we do. It’s evenings like these that remind us how lucky we are to be a part of something bigger—something that’s been going strong for 127 years and counting.
Prizes Galore!
No fundraising event is complete without fun and fabulous raffle prizes. Thank you to our raffle donors for helping support our grants program at Placer High, including: Roper’s Jewelers, Getaway Travel Specialists, Monkey Cat, Boisset Wines by Renee Reale, Twisted C’s Jewelry, Dutch Bros, Hair by Jenny Menchinella Kyle, Norway by Jen Russell, Holt of California, Alice Dowdin Calvillo, and Friends of Placer High School.
Here’s to Many More Tailgaters!
As we wrapped up the evening and turned our attention to the big game (Hillmen vs. Antelope Titans), there was no denying the sense of pride we all felt. We weren’t just cheering for a football team; we were celebrating the very essence of Placer High, the Auburn community, and everything they stand for.
Whether you’re a Hillmen alum, parent, or a newcomer to our events, we hope you felt the magic in the air that night. Here’s to many more Tailgaters, more touchdowns, and more unforgettable memories. Go Hillmen!
Stay Tuned for More Fun!
If you missed out this year, don’t worry—there’s always next time. Be sure to keep an eye out for more Hillmen Foundation events, and let’s keep this community spirit rolling all year long.
Until next time, let’s go Hillmen!
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.
A Night to Remember: Tailgater 2024
A Night to Remember: Tailgater 2024
There’s something special about fall in Auburn— the crisp evening air, the buzz of excitement, and the undeniable energy that comes with football season. But on Friday, September 13, 2024, we cranked that feeling up to 11 with our annual Tailgater! If you were lucky enough to join us at School Park Preserve, you know exactly what we’re talking about.
It’s More Than Just a Game – It’s Community
Our Tailgater isn’t just about football (although, let’s be honest, we were all pumped to see the Hillmen take on the Antelope Titans). It’s about celebrating the heart of what makes Placer High so special—our community. From alumni to parents, local businesses to die-hard fans, this event brought together the very people who make Auburn feel like home.
The night kicked off at 5:00 PM, and boy, did it set the tone! With tables full of familiar faces and the savory scent of barbecue filling the air, it felt like one giant family reunion. Special shoutout to Local Heroes for the mouth-watering BBQ dinner! Those burgers and homemade potato chips? We’re still dreaming about them.
And thank you to Raley’s for donating a gift card for bottled waters, and Save-Mart for a generous gift card to cover the cost of their yummy cookies.
Raise a Glass to Good Times!
We also want to tip our hats to Vina Castellano Winery and Crooked Lane Brewery. Their local wines and craft beers were the perfect complement to the evening. It was also great to have former board member and Vina Castellano owner Teena Mendez Wilkins and her hubby pouring their wines and continuing to support the Foundation’s efforts to enrich Placer High.
Speaking of special moments, it was amazing to welcome back the Class of 1994 as they kicked off their 30th Class Reunion with us. To all the ‘94 grads: you sure know how to get the party started! It was heartwarming to see them reconnect, swapping stories and laughter that felt like no time had passed at all. It’s a beautiful reminder of how deep Placer’s roots go.
Celebrating 35 Years of the Hillmen Foundation
But this Tailgater had even more reason to celebrate! This year marked the 35th anniversary of the Hillmen Foundation, and we partied like it was 1989. We honored the legacy of our founders, Jug Covich and Tom Johnson, whose vision back in ’89 created this incredible organization. Through their foresight—and the generosity of our community—our foundation continues to provide that extra "margin of excellence" that keeps Placer High thriving in academics, athletics, and activities.
A Huge Thank You to Our Tailgater Partners
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the incredible support from our community. Whether you were a sponsor or major donor, or attended the event to share in the fun, you made this night one for the books. We are so grateful to everyone who contributed—especially our Tailgater Partners who went above and beyond. You truly helped make this evening unforgettable.
Champion
Special Friend of the Hillmen Foundation
Gold
Claire Haydon Christensen & Family
FAMFest/Creative Music Services
Kathy Sands & Family
Green
Auburn Medical Group: Mark Vaughan, MD & G. Gawayne Vaughan, MD
Gold Country Stoves
Boosters
Friends of Alice Dowdin Calvillo for Auburn City Council
Shana Fain McDonald & Family
Re-elect Supervisor Cindy Gustafson
Alicia Kellie
Lightfoot Truck Repair
David & Nancy Odom
Peters Engineering
Fans
Collins & Collins
Bob Haydon & Family
And to all who came out to celebrate? You are the heartbeat of the Hillmen Foundation. Without your spirit and support, we wouldn’t have the vibrant, thriving community that we do. It’s evenings like these that remind us how lucky we are to be a part of something bigger—something that’s been going strong for 127 years and counting.
Prizes Galore!
No fundraising event is complete without fun and fabulous raffle prizes. Thank you to our raffle donors for helping support our grants program at Placer High, including: Roper’s Jewelers, Getaway Travel Specialists, Monkey Cat, Boisset Wines by Renee Reale, Twisted C’s Jewelry, Dutch Bros, Hair by Jenny Menchinella Kyle, Norway by Jen Russell, Holt of California, Alice Dowdin Calvillo, and Friends of Placer High School.
Here’s to Many More Tailgaters!
As we wrapped up the evening and turned our attention to the big game (Hillmen vs. Antelope Titans), there was no denying the sense of pride we all felt. We weren’t just cheering for a football team; we were celebrating the very essence of Placer High, the Auburn community, and everything they stand for.
Whether you’re a Hillmen alum, parent, or a newcomer to our events, we hope you felt the magic in the air that night. Here’s to many more Tailgaters, more touchdowns, and more unforgettable memories. Go Hillmen!
Stay Tuned for More Fun!
If you missed out this year, don’t worry—there’s always next time. Be sure to keep an eye out for more Hillmen Foundation events, and let’s keep this community spirit rolling all year long.
Until next time, let’s go Hillmen!
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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