Stevenson School Appoints Cynthia B. Chapman As Board Chair

Stevenson, an independent PK-12 boarding and day school on California’s Monterey Peninsula, has announced the appointment of Cynthia B. Chapman as the new Chair of the Board, effective July 1, 2024. Chapman will succeed David Colburn, who will continue to serve on the Stevenson Board of Trustees.

Located in Pebble Beach, California, Stevenson is a vibrant community of scholars, athletes, artists, musicians, visionaries, and explorers. The school combines academic excellence with self-discovery, encouraging students to embrace their passions and face challenges with resilience.

"Cynthia’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Stevenson," said Dr. Dan Griffiths, President of Stevenson. "Her long-standing commitment and contributions to our community, combined with her professional expertise and personal dedication to our mission, ensure a bright future for the school. We also extend our deepest gratitude to David Colburn for his remarkable leadership and continued service on the Board."

Chapman, a Stevenson alumna from the class of 1983 and parent of two graduates, has played a pivotal role in sustaining Stevenson’s growth through her ongoing commitment and contributions. After graduating cum laude from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1992 and earning a B.A. in Art History from the University of California, San Diego in 1988, Chapman has built a distinguished legal career.

Today, Chapman is a member of the State Bars of Texas and California and is licensed to practice before numerous federal district courts across the country. She co-founded Caddell & Chapman with her husband Michael Caddell, where she focuses on consumer rights. Her service to Stevenson includes roles such as Alumni Association President and various leadership positions on the Board of Trustees since 2008.

Recognizing the importance of financial aid in her own achievements, Chapman and her husband established The Chapman & Caddell Scholarship Fund in 2012 to provide need-based financial aid for students at Stevenson. In 2023, she received the Day Family Award for Contributions to Stevenson from the school’s Alumni Association.

"I am deeply honoured and excited to take on this role," said Chapman. "Stevenson has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional development, and I am committed to advancing its mission. My vision for Stevenson is to continue fostering an inclusive, innovative environment where every student can thrive."

As Board Chair, Chapman aims to enhance academic programs to prepare students for college and beyond, expand extracurricular opportunities to nurture diverse talents, and strengthen community partnerships to support holistic student development.

"I have full confidence in Cynthia’s ability to lead Stevenson into its next phase of excellence," said David Colburn. "Her journey from a grateful scholarship student to a distinguished alumna and dedicated trustee exemplifies the transformative power of a Stevenson education."

During his six-year tenure as Board Chair, Colburn significantly impacted Stevenson's growth. The school's investment fund grew by 75%, total net assets increased by 57%, and the budget grew by 29%. Financial aid increased by 40% to $7.6 million under his leadership.

Chapman and her colleagues on the Board of Trustees will remain focused on driving forward Stevenson’s mission to prepare students for success in school and beyond; foster their passion for learning; and help them shape a joyful life.

Learn more about Stevenson at https://stevensonschool.org.