Lee Unveils Verde Valley School’s Rich History to Rotary Club

On September 5, Verde Valley School head Ben Lee delivered an insightful presentation on the school’s rich history to the Rotary Club of Sedona Village.

Founded in 1946 by Hamilton and Barbara Warren, the institution has deep-rooted ties to the community. “Not a day goes by that you don’t hear people mention Ham and Babs, because their fingerprints are everywhere on our campus,” Lee stated. A bust of Hamilton Warren and numerous photographs accentuate the school’s homage to its founders. Lee emphasized the importance of their founding vision in shaping the school’s culture and educational philosophy.

Hamilton Warren, hailing from a prominent Boston family, graduated from Harvard in 1926, focusing on anthropology and business. His vision for Verde Valley was to foster international understanding through a diverse curriculum, which included anthropology and Spanish classes, alongside annual field trips, as detailed in his New York Times obituary.

Lee recounted a significant experience from Warren’s youth, explaining how a horseback journey from Phoenix to Flagstaff revealed the enchanting landscape of the Verde Valley, leaving a lasting impression on him. Barbara Warren, born in Guatemala in 1916 to British coffee plantation owners, also played a pivotal role in the school’s establishment. Their love story began in Guatemala during a chance encounter after World War II, marking the start of their shared commitment to education.

Motivated by the ravages of World War II and its aftermath, the Warrens aspired to create an inclusive educational environment. “Mindful of global horrors and ethnocentrism, they envisioned a school that celebrated cultural diversity,” Lee explained, referencing the school’s mission.

As they constructed the campus, the Warrens faced challenges, living in a surplus army tent with their young daughters. “They drew water from Oak Creek and worked alongside stonemasons to build the school,” noted Lee. This hands-on approach continues to inspire current students and educators, with several of their children actively involved in the school’s operations today.

Barbara Warren was instrumental in campus design, while Hamilton managed construction. Notably, the initial buildings utilized local Indian labor, reflecting the school’s commitment to intercultural ideals. “The students’ involvement in campus maintenance and construction has been a tradition since the school’s inception,” recalled Jennette Bill, a former student who described her transformative experiences during her time at VVS.

This year, Verde Valley School welcomes students from 18 different countries, including its first student from Zimbabwe, highlighting its growing international presence. The school’s commitment to social responsibility is evidenced by initiatives providing support to local Indigenous communities.

Lee introduced plans for a revival of service trips to Malawi, where students will collaborate on community projects, including eyeglass distribution, in partnership with the Lions Club. He is also working on potential educational exchanges with Sedona’s prospective sister city, Canmore, Alberta, Canada.

“Verde Valley School serves as a microcosm of what our world could be—a space where diverse cultures and perspectives coexist,” Bill reflected. The school’s commitment to fostering understanding and friendship among its diverse community continues to thrive.