RE Log - Fall 2021

44 Ransom Everglades LOG FALL 2021 A s a long-time supporter of Ransom Everglades, Ricky Stokes ’94 , Head of U.S. Lower Middle Market Private Equity at HIG Capital, brings his professional expertise and personal enthusiasm to his role as a volunteer. “Ransom Everglades has always been a very special place for me,” Stokes said. I had such a phenomenal experience as a student. Beyond the outstand- ing education I received, I forged friendships that have lasted to this day.” Stokes played soccer and golf at Ransom Everglades before heading to Cornell University. As an alumnus, he has served in many roles — from class agent and alumni board president to trustee. He and his wife Amy, parents of Ellie ’26 and Spencer ’28 , decided to name the Heritage Room in the renovated La Brisa building as part of their commitment to REinventing Excellence: The Campaign for Ransom Everglades . The La Brisa property, acquired by the school in 2016, fundamentally transformed the upper school campus, in Stokes’ eyes. “The expanded footprint will allow the school to continue to improve its facilities and position the school for the future,” he said. “It also ensures that there will be plenty of green spaces and outdoor spaces for our students to enjoy.” Looking back on the school’s growth, Stokes credits the RE community’s engagement and investment in spaces, programs and people over the years – from the construction of the Henry H. Anderson, Jr. ’38 Gymnasium to the comprehensive renovation of the middle school to the Ansin Aquatic Center to the recent completion of the Constance & Miguel Fernandez STEM Center and the acquisition of the La Brisa property. “So many parents and alums have supported the school’s initiatives throughout the years. When you look at what we’ve accomplished as a community, it is truly amazing,” he said. As Advancement Committee Chair, Stokes is a true champion for RE. He is excited about the future of Ransom Everglades and the community that makes the school special. “One of the great things about Ransom is its amazing sense of community,” Stokes said. “We accomplish great things because we do it together, with passion and with purpose. By providing our students and our faculty with the resources they need, we are helping develop the great leaders of tomorrow, both in our community and beyond.” Amy and Ricky Stokes ’94 “ One of the great things about Ransom Everglades is its amazing sense of community. We accomplish great things because we do it together, with passion and with purpose.” – Ricky Stokes ’94 Stokes family celebrates RE community