For many Pine Crest alumni, the memories of their time on campus remain a cherished part of their lives. For Kimberly (Altschul) Straker ’90, her experience at Pine Crest not only shaped her journey but also inspired her ongoing commitment to giving back.
After graduating from Pine Crest, Kim attended the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in history, before earning her law degree from Boston University. She launched her legal career in New York City, specializing in labor and employment law, and as Senior Counsel at Seyfarth Shaw, she continues to advise clients on workplace policies, best practices and compliance with federal and state employment laws.
Reflecting on her time at Pine Crest, Kim fondly recalls her deep involvement in student leadership. Serving as class president for two years and student council president in her senior year, she credits these roles with building her confidence and leadership skills. Her extracurriculars extended beyond student government—she was a varsity tennis captain and a football cheerleader, embracing every opportunity to be engaged in school life.
“I loved my Pine Crest years,” she shares. “The experiences and lessons I gained from my teachers, coaches and peers gave me a strong foundation for everything I’ve done since.”
That foundation and the lifelong impact of her education are what drive her unwavering support for Pine Crest. Since her first job out of law school, she has made giving back a priority, donating annually for more than 20 years.
“Pine Crest played such a crucial role in shaping who I am, and I’ve always felt it was important to give back,” she explains. “Even when I was just starting my career, I gave what I could. It wasn’t about the amount—it was about showing gratitude.”
Her commitment to Pine Crest extends beyond financial contributions. When the opportunity arose for her family to relocate to Florida, she knew they wanted their children to experience the same exceptional education. Her brother Sean Altschul ’92 and his family felt the same. The pandemic made remote work a reality, allowing their families to make the move and enroll their children at Pine Crest.
Sean Altschul ’92 and Kim (Altschul) Straker ’90
“My brother Sean and I would always talk about how amazing it would be to move to Florida and send our kids to Pine Crest,” she says. “For years, our careers kept us in the Northeast, but COVID changed everything. We realized that working remotely made it possible, and together, we made the decision to move.”
Now, as she watches her daughters, Chloe ’26 and Alexa ’27, thrive, she is reminded of how Pine Crest prepares students for success. Whether through leadership opportunities, innovative tools and resources or forward-thinking programs, she sees firsthand the lasting value of a Pine Crest education.
“I’m blown away by the opportunities my daughters have here. From broadcast media to the three-year social entrepreneurship program, they are developing life skills that will serve them forever,” she says. “The academics have always been outstanding, but what truly sets Pine Crest apart is how it fosters confidence, leadership and innovation.”
As Kim celebrates her 35th reunion this year, she looks forward to reconnecting with classmates and reflecting on how Pine Crest has evolved.
The Straker Family: David, Kim ’90, Alexa ’27 and Chloe ’26
“What I’m really looking forward to is seeing people and reminiscing with those I haven’t seen in years,” she says. “I encourage my classmates to come back and visit—Pine Crest was an incredible place when we were students, and it’s even more remarkable today.”
To fellow alumni considering giving back, she offers a simple yet powerful message: “Take a moment to reflect on what Pine Crest did for you. If you had a great experience, show your gratitude and pay it forward. Your support will help future generations benefit from the same incredible education.”
Kim’s legacy of generosity and commitment to Pine Crest serves as an inspiring example of the lasting impact of alumni philanthropy. As she continues to invest in the school’s future, she ensures that students today—and for years to come—have access to the same transformative opportunities she did.