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The Hillmen Foundation wants to connect with you. Please complete the form below if you would like to be added to our mailing list for

class reunions or other news; or if you have a question or comment.

OUR FOCUS

FOUNDATION FOUCS: OUR IMPACT AREAS

ACADEMICS

We empower students, faculty, and staff for enhanced learning through grants, tech initiatives, and scholarships, propelling them into a successful future beyond high school.

ATHLETICS

Hillmen Foundation fuels athletic achievements through grants, enhancing safety, facilities, and community fitness.

ACTIVITIES

We foster holistic education by supporting diverse activities through grants, enriching students' experiences beyond the classroom.

ALUMNI

Placer High's rich history shines through alumni activities, fostering a strong network connecting generations and the community.

SPECIAL PROJECTS & INITIATIVES

Placer High's prime Auburn location fuels community growth, enhancing facilities and programs through strategic grants.

GYM CLASSES

WHAT YOU GET FROM ENDURANCE MEMBERSHIP

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia.

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia.

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia.

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia.

A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia.

NEWS AND EVENTS

Fresh Updates Await Your DISCOVERY

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.

Dr. Clay Redfield, a 1978 Placer High grad, is the former band director and now Coordinator of Music Education in the School of Music at California State University, Sacramento.

Alumni Profile: Clay Redfield - Class of 1978

August 08, 20253 min read

Dr. Clay Redfield: A Musical Journey Rooted in Placer High

I graduated from Placer High School in 1978, and the education and experiences I gained there laid a strong foundation that significantly influenced my career path. The curriculum, the friendships, and the life lessons I gained there were invaluable, shaping both my personal growth and future career path.

I went on to build a rewarding career in music education—first as a public-school music teacher and now as a college professor. I owe much of that success to the foundation I received at Placer. The impact of the teachers, coaches, staff, and administrators was profound. Their guidance and example laid the groundwork for everything that followed.

One educator, in particular, made a lasting impression: Mr. Clyde Quick, our beloved band director. Mr. Quick wasn’t just a gifted music educator—he was a mentor, a role model, and a compassionate leader who truly cared about his students. He created a close-knit, supportive environment that allowed us to thrive musically and personally. Through his encouragement, I found both my passion and my calling in music education—a debt of gratitude I carry with me to this day.

Even decades after graduation, Mr. Quick remained a mentor and friend. We often served together as adjudicators at music festivals, sharing laughs and fond memories of our days at Placer. His passing left a profound void, felt deeply by a generation of students he had inspired.

Since 2008, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a professor of music at my alma mater, Sacramento State, where I direct the music education program and mentor future teachers. One of the highlights of my job is supervising student teachers at Placer—it’s a surreal and joyful experience that always brings back memories. I’m continually impressed by the outstanding students and the enduring strength of the music program, now under the leadership of Mr. Lawrenson.

In my visits to schools across the country, one thing is clear: successful schools thrive because of community support. I encourage all alumni, parents, and friends of Placer to get involved—whether it’s donating to fundraisers, volunteering time, mentoring students, or simply celebrating their achievements. Every contribution, big or small, makes a lasting difference.

Placer High shaped who I am, and I’m proud to be part of its legacy.


Dr. Clay Redfield is the Coordinator of Music Education in the School of Music at California State University, Sacramento. From 2008 to 2020, Redfield also directed the Sacramento State Marching Band. Prior to joining the Sacramento State faculty in 2008, Redfield served as the Fine Arts Division Chairman and Director of Bands at Eastern Arizona College in Thatcher, Arizona. Redfield began his teaching career in 1984 in Reno, Nevada, where he taught instrumental music at Robert McQueen High School, Darrell C. Swope Middle School, and several elementary schools. Some of Redfield’s credits include the Northern Nevada Outstanding High School Educator Award, the Washoe County Teachers Association Distinguished Service Award, a four-time Nevada State Marching Band Champion, and the UNLV Graduate Teaching Assistantship. Redfield is a frequently invited conductor, clinician, adjudicator, presenter, and contest director.

Hillmen FoundationPlacer High SchoolPlacer Music ProgramSacramento StateCalifornia State University, Sacramento
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PLEASE NOTE

A company called AlumniClass.com has been soliciting Placer Alumni for membership fees. This company is not affiliated in any way with Placer High School, The Hillmen Foundation, or any Placer Class Reunion or Placer High organization, whatsoever. We suggest that you do not respond to their emails or correspond with this company.

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.

$1,069,484

TOTAL IMPACT AS OF JUNE 2025, INCLUDING...

$736,759

GRANTS PROGRAMS, INCLUDING...

$211,630

ACADEMICS

$110,540

ATHLETICS

$82,694

ACTIVITIES

$27,086

ALUMNI

$304,809

SPECIAL PROJECTS & INITIATIVES

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM*

$332,725

TOTAL AWARDED

31

CURRENT SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

$41,000

FOR 2025 GRADS

*Scholarships include Foundation-sponsored and Endowments with the Hillmen Foundation

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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