Cate Fund
What is the Cate Fund?
The Cate Fund serves as the School’s most important annual fundraiser, securing essential donations that directly sustain and enrich the daily campus experience. Every contribution plays a vital role in fueling the School’s operations, with funds carefully directed to support faculty professional development, academic resources, and classroom supplies. Additionally, donations fund yearly facility improvements, technology and equipment upgrades, extracurricular programs, and critical financial aid that keep the community diverse and accessible. Beyond meeting everyday needs, the Cate Fund provides the School with the financial flexibility to seize opportunities and remain resilient in the face of unforeseen challenges.
What is the Mesa Association?
A central pillar of this philanthropic effort is the Mesa Association, which was established in 1976 to recognize leadership donors who contribute $5,000 or more to the Cate Fund. These leadership donors act as vital partners in the School’s mission, significantly enhancing its ability to provide a truly transformative education while fostering growth and innovation for both students and faculty.
The impact of this group is profound: in the 2025–2026 campaign, donations at the Mesa Association level accounted for an impressive 91% of the Cate Fund’s overall dollars raised. The School remains deeply grateful to those who consider such leadership and, in appreciation, offers members unique opportunities to engage directly with school leadership, including an invitation to the annual Mesa Dinner.
For those who have questions, are interested in volunteering, or would like to donate, Alison Boris, the Cate Fund Director, can be reached directly via email at alison_boris@cate.org.
The Mesa Association
Did You Know?
Your Dollars in Action
Cate's Most Pressing Need
Cate's Most Pressing Need
By designating your contribution to Cate’s most pressing need, you allow the Head of School, C.F.O., and the Board of Trustees to prepare for unforeseen circumstances and capitalize on exciting opportunities.
Scholarship & Access
Scholarship & Access
Cate students come from every corner of the world and are distinguished by their curiosity, compassion, and kindness. Cate’s need-based financial assistance program and your contribution ensure that attendance costs do not preclude access to an extraordinary educational experience. We are committed to making the Cate experience accessible to families of all income levels.
Exceptional Faculty and Staff
Exceptional Faculty and Staff
A portion of the Cate Fund is allocated towards attracting and retaining remarkable educators who inspire and guide our students. Cate faculty members are committed and have received numerous academic and professional awards and prizes, including the Presidential Award for Mathematics, Tandy Prizes, Klingenstein Fellowships (at Columbia University), and a California Outstanding Educator Award. Eighty-one percent of Cate faculty hold advanced degrees.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Your contribution supports the School’s ongoing effort to create a culture of belonging for all and acknowledges the centrality of D.E.I. competency in teaching, professionalism, and collaboration.
Health and Wellness
Health and Wellness
Ellis House is a safe space for students to find a confidential, comfortable, supportive, and collaborative environment where they can find wraparound care for their emotional, physical, social, and intellectual well-being. Your contribution supports Cate’s health and wellness facility, programming, and excellent medical team.
Campus Maintenance and Upgrades
Campus Maintenance and Upgrades
Cate is reimagining and revitalizing the living and learning spaces of tomorrow, a testament to our enduring commitment to innovation. We know that the best education honors the past, nurtures the present, and prepares our students for the future. Your support ensures the Mesa remains safe and provides a comfortable and inspiring environment for your student to thrive.