This year’s recipient of the AISAP Vision and Values Award is Kim Bair, Director of Admission and Financial Aid at Washington Episcopal School.
Kim Bair recently completed her thirty-fourth year at Washington Episcopal School where she first began in the classroom. She was beloved by her students and families and she was known for her ability to nurture the potential in a wide variety of learners. She taught Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2 until 2014, when she was tapped to become the new Director of Admission and Financial Aid. Enrollment is the lifeblood of an independent school, and while Kim was asked to take over during a season of challenges, enrollment has grown 32% under her capable leadership.
In their remarks presenting the award, Ingrid Palmisano, Chief Enrollment Officer, Miami Country Day School and Orna Siegel, Executive Director, Executive Director, ElevatEd, characterized Kim as someone who sets the gold standard in enrollment—someone who leads with integrity, models best practices, and inspires those around them. They said, “Kim embodies the very best of our profession—heart, humor, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”
Janice Crampton, Executive Director and CEO, AISAP says “Kim lives the AISAP mission every day: to be extraordinary, continuously learn, put members first, make meaningful connections, embrace inclusion and diversity, and uphold the utmost ethical standards.” In accepting the award, Kim said, “After 34 years at the Washington Episcopal School, it’s incredibly meaningful to continue representing a place that has shaped so much of my personal and professional journey. I’m grateful to still be part of such a dedicated and inspiring community.”