Modeling Philanthropy in Action

Why Vanessa Peterson and Marwan Mouammar find ways to give back to Catlin Gabel

Vanessa and Marwan have been dedicated parents at Catlin Gabel for seven years, with three kids thriving at the school: Jude in 6th grade, Sedra in 3rd grade, and Naseem in 2nd grade.

As health care professionals, their schedules are packed, but Vanessa and Marwan still make time to give back—whether it’s their resources, skills, or energy. They’re often spotted pitching in at school events, showing their commitment to the community. We caught up with them to learn more about why they invest so much in Catlin Gabel.

Why Catlin Gabel?
“Marwan and I are both first-generation college graduates,” Vanessa shared. “Education is a cornerstone for our family—it’s led us to careers we’re passionate about. We view our kids’ education as their inheritance, and we’re so impressed by Catlin Gabel’s amazing teachers and tight-knit community. It’s been a great fit for us.”

Why do you give your time and treasure to Catlin Gabel?
With three young kids, elderly parents to support, family overseas, and even helping resettle a refugee family in Oregon, Vanessa and Marwan have their hands full (and pockets empty). “We’re not swimming in extra money,” they admitted, “but we always budget for a yearly donation to the Catlin Gabel Fund.” Beyond that, they squeeze in time to help out—whether it’s chaperoning a class trip, assisting at an event, or joining the Catlin Gabel Capital Campaign Committee after work. “We support Catlin Gabel because it’s a chance to model long-term giving for our kids,” Vanessa said. “The school’s shaping them into strong students and community-minded individuals, but they also learn about who they want to be from watching how we step up.”

Why volunteer for Advancement?
Vanessa has been a long-term volunteer for Advancement, chairing the Catlin Gabel Fund Ambassadors for several years and now serving on the capital campaign committee. “I got behind the CG Fund big-time when I learned it covers 7-8% of the operating budget,” she explained. “That’s a $2,500 scholarship for every student. Without it, tuition hikes could push out families, especially those with multiple kids or tight budgets. By giving back, I’m helping keep this community accessible. I always ask families - 'Did you realize your kid’s been on a scholarship this whole time'?”

Catlin Gabel is grateful to Vanessa and Marwan, and for all the ways they help our Eagles Soar!