Ed and Maria Gale
Building Resilience
In 2000, Ed and Maria each moved to Santa Fe, where they met each other, discovered many common interests, and got married. They became active in local philanthropy, wanting to giveback to the community that had been so warm and welcoming to them. In 2018, the Gales established their donor advised fund at the Santa Fe Community Foundation.
“We find that the Foundation is a terrific source of information about nonprofits in northern New Mexico,” said Maria. “Through our donor advised fund we are able to make targeted grants to mission appropriate organizations that make a real difference.”
During the height of the COVID pandemic, like so many others, the Gales made an immediate and heartfelt decision to increase their support for frontline service providers. “Our work with the Foundation is a real partnership that fulfills our philanthropic goals of building resilience in our community.”
Q&A with Elizabeth Rice
SFCF fund advisor Elizabeth Rice's commitment to philanthropy began early, shaped by her mother’s unwavering dedication to service. Today, after almost 50 years in Santa Fe, she continues to invest in the region she calls home by supporting education and systems change.
Believing in Every Student: Ina Sussman-Miller's Enduring Impact
Ina Sussman Miller’s life was guided by a strong belief in the power of education. Born in Brooklyn and later making her home in Albuquerque, she spent decades helping young people find opportunities to learn and succeed. Through the Sussman Miller Educational Assistance Fund, her legacy continues to support students across New Mexico and beyond. The following Q&A is shared by a close friend who accompanied Ina in her philanthropic work.
Q&A with Dorothy Bracey
SFCF donor Dorothy Bracey reflects on the transformative power of community-led philanthropy. Now a passionate supporter of the Santa Fe Community Foundation, she shares how the Learning Hub, the Community Leadership Fund, and legacy giving have deepened her connection to northern New Mexico. Her story is one of long-term commitment, thoughtful giving, and trust in the Foundation’s enduring mission.
