Q&A with Elizabeth Rice
Reflections on a life of thoughtful philanthropy
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. With guidance from the Santa Fe Community Foundation and a focus on innovation and leadership, her giving strengthens the fabric of northern New Mexico.
Please share a bit about where you're from and what inspired your philanthropic journey. Do you have a personal experience or early memory of philanthropy "in action" that influenced you?
I have lived in Santa Fe just shy of 50 years and I consider it to be where I am from although my family hailed from Dodge City, KS. My mother was the individual who inspired my philanthropic giving. She gave her time, energy, talent, and money to any number of nonprofits during her life. I have been blessed in life and believe strongly in giving to my community in the hope that Santa Fe and New Mexico remain strong, resilient, and vibrant.
What education causes are you passionate about supporting here in northern New Mexico?
Communities in Schools, Partners in Education, Girls Inc. of Santa Fe, College & Career Plaza, Global Santa Fe, Santa Fe Community Foundation’s Women of Color Initiative, Institute of American Indian Arts, Rural Libraries in northern NM, Santa Fe Girls School, and True Kids in Taos. However, so many nonprofits’ mission is directly or indirectly about “education.” They try to educate/inform their clients about how to live their best lives. That’s a whole other list.
How do you decide which education-focused nonprofits or programs to support? What key factors influence your decision-making process?
Innovation, systems change, visionary leaders, strategic thinkers, and financial acumen.
How has the Santa Fe Community Foundation and its team supported your philanthropy?
Back in the early days of my philanthropic giving, the Santa Fe Community Foundation was a great resource for discovering and learning about various nonprofits in northern New Mexico communities. SFCF staff members Diane Hamamoto and Annmarie McLaughlin are and have been great resources for me, proactive in bringing me information and opportunities from those nonprofits who match my giving priorities.
Are there any stories of success from your giving that you would like to share?
Philanthropy for me has three main categories: crisis intervention; empowerment of nonprofit clients to succeed; and advocacy-changing public policy to assist our communities and the individuals who reside in them. I have seen success within each of these, whether it be funding new innovative programs that fulfill their mission or gifting general operating funds to aid either their sustainability or to create new public policy. It has also been my great pleasure to serve on nonprofit boards within the Santa Fe community and to further their continued success in fulfilling their individual mission.
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.
Q&A with Victoria Rabinowe
In this heartfelt Q&A, SFCF fund advisor Victoria Rabinowe shares the powerful personal history and values that shape her philanthropic journey. Her giving is deeply rooted in memory, justice, and gratitude—supporting local organizations that champion immigrant rights, empower women and girls, foster peace, and uplift artisans. Through the Foundation, she has found a trusted partner to help steward her inherited legacy into impactful community action.
