At our 35th Anniversary celebration, we had the privilege of honoring someone whose influence has shaped Summer Search in profound and lasting ways: Stephanie DiMarco. Though Stephanie has never sought the spotlight, her leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to our mission have illuminated the path for countless young people, staff members, and fellow leaders.

During the celebration, Board member Niles Lichtenstein offered a moving tribute to Stephanie—one rooted in deep gratitude and lived experience. His reflections painted a portrait of a leader who is both quietly powerful and unmistakably impactful.

A Leader Defined by Strength and Heart

When board members, staff, and alumni were asked to describe Stephanie, the words came quickly:
Humble, fierce, decisive, empowering, authentic, thoughtful, resourceful, inspiring, quietly influential, caring, savvy, intuitive, and “beast mode.”

Over her fifteen years of service, Stephanie has become one of the most influential Board members in Summer Search’s history. Her leadership shows up not through fanfare, but through clarity, consistency, and a deep belief in what young people can become when given the right support.

A Moment That Sparked a Legacy

Stephanie was first introduced to Summer Search around 2009 by fellow Board member Liebe Patterson. But it was sitting in on one of our student interviews—rooted in Summer Search’s powerful practice of silence, courage-building, and truth-seeking—that cemented Stephanie’s commitment. She recognized something familiar:  A quiet power. The ability to identify talent. A way of asking the right questions that inspires someone to step forward with courage.

When Stephanie Commits, She Commits

As Niles shared, those closest to Stephanie know she holds a high bar for where she invests her time, energy, and resources. But once she commits, she shows up with unwavering consistency—and others follow.

Stephanie played a crucial role in conceptualizing and executing the No Ceilings Campaign – the recent, multi-year revenue strategy that strengthened Summer Search’s sustainability raising over $100MM. Her leadership was not abstract; she was in the trenches, modeling generosity through her own capital commitment and inspiring others to join her.

One donor once asked her how they might find other organizations like Summer Search to support. Stephanie’s response captured her clarity and conviction: “There’s no need—just give more to Summer Search.”

Giving That Is Generous, Practical, and Deeply Human

Stephanie’s philanthropy is defined not just by generosity, but by a keen eye for what young people need to thrive.

When she joined a 3-mile run with students and noticed Summer Searchers preparing for their trips without proper shoes or sports bras, she didn’t hesitate—she launched an equipment fund to meet those needs.

When the alumni team saw an opportunity to build a new digital platform to strengthen alumni connections and career pathways, Stephanie stepped in again—not only with financial support, but with strategic advice, contacts, and consultants to help hone the vision and determine the best way forward.

A Personal Tribute from a Grateful Leader

Niles offered a deeply personal reflection during his remarks—one that speaks to the kind of leader Stephanie is beyond the boardroom.

He recalled meeting Stephanie in his twenties, nervous and unsure of his path. She listened, asked hard questions, and ultimately wrote the largest angel investment of his life—an act that transformed his confidence and helped launch his journey as a founder and CEO.

From that moment on, Stephanie has been a constant presence: advisor, truth-teller, champion, and friend. Today, as Niles leads Nestment, a company increasing access to first-time homeownership, he continues to share every major milestone with Stephanie—and credits her with helping shape his understanding of leadership and fulfillment.

A Legacy Woven Into the Fabric of Summer Search

Stephanie has opened her home, her expertise, her resources, and—most importantly—her heart. Her influence can be felt across generations of Summer Searchers and across every layer of our organization.

As Niles said so beautifully: “Her influence is constant in my life, in many of our lives here, and throughout this incredible organization—past, present, and future.”

At Summer Search, we deeply value leaders who believe in young people’s potential and who invest in their journeys with conviction and care. Stephanie is one of those leaders; a quiet force whose impact will echo for years to come.

Thank you, Stephanie, for your extraordinary leadership, partnership, and belief in what young people can achieve. We are endlessly grateful.