Honoring Tom's 35-year legacy: Shana's Fundraiser

Whether you knew Tom Johnson as Coach, Mr. Johnson, or just Tom, he undoubtedly left a positive impact. Even if you did not know him at all, Tom's legacy and legend lives on through the Hillmen Foundation that he co-founded 35 years ago to enrich our school and community.

For those who didn't know Tom, he was a popular English teacher, vice principal and principal at Placer High from 1972-1997. But he was perhaps best known for teaming with another Hillmen icon, Bill Miller, to establish a 12-year football dynasty that would include three undefeated seasons, eight Sierra Foothill League titles, five Sac-Joaquin Section Division II championships, and a 93-18-1 record. The 1977 and 1980 teams were named No. 1 in the State.

Tom, along with fellow legend Jug Covich, also established the Hillmen Foundation in 1989 to help bridge critical funding gaps and create an enriched learning environment at Placer High. Because of their leadership, tenacity and vision, the Hillmen Foundation has provided nearly $950,000 to strengthen Placer High academics, athletics and student activities. I am humbled to continue their work.

Tom and former chair Bob Burge recruited me to the Hillmen Foundation board some 15 years ago. Both were English teachers who influenced my career in public relations and nonprofit consulting. I am honored to be the first chair of the Hillmen Foundation Board of Directors from the "civilian ranks" (meaning, I didn't teach at Placer), and the first female chair of the Foundation. I've seen, first-hand, the huge impact every donation makes on the academic environment at my alma mater, as well as on our community.

That's why I am giving to and encouraging your support for the Hillmen Foundation.

The Hillmen Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing Placer High and our community in the areas of academics, athletics, student activities, and alumni relations. 

All funding comes from private donations, with 100% of the funds raised going to the Foundation's efforts to benefit Placer High and the Greater Auburn community. 

Please join me in honoring Tom Johnson and Jug Covich's memory by giving a tax-deductible gift to the Hillmen Foundation through the Big Day of Giving. 

You can learn more about the Hillmen Foundation at hillmenfoundation.org. If you have questions or would like more information on how you can support the Hillmen Foundation, please send an email to info@hillmenfoundation.org.

Thank you for your support. We miss you, Tom and Jug!