We were incredibly proud to recognize Mandy Korphi as Silicon Valley International School's Spirit of INTL Award recipient at this year's Gala. Mandy’s journey with INTL began more than three decades ago, and her story is a powerful reflection of the school’s enduring impact. From 1991 to 1999, she was a student in the INTL community, and notably, a member of INTL’s very first graduating Middle School class. She left INTL with a foundation that would shape not only her academic path, but her worldview, values, and sense of purpose.
Reflecting on her time at INTL, Mandy often credits the school with teaching her how to take on challenges head-on and, most importantly, with inspiring her to help people. The bilingual, international environment exposed her early to global perspectives, while the school’s emphasis on creativity alongside rigorous academics nurtured a way of thinking that continues to guide her today. During her years at INTL, Mandy developed essential skills in deep research, critical thinking, and analysis, as well as the discipline to iterate again and again through drafts until arriving at the right solution. These habits of mind became cornerstones of her success throughout college and across every professional role she has held.
While Mandy showed an early aptitude for science, math, and STEM-related subjects, INTL encouraged her to grow in every direction. One moment in particular stands out from her time as a student. Mandy recalls being challenged by her art teacher, Chantal, who refused to accept the idea that anyone could be “bad at art.” Instead, Chantal pushed Mandy to look more closely at the world, to notice nature, color, movement, and perspective. Through that encouragement, Mandy came to see art not as a source of frustration, but as another form of observation and expression. Years later, those lessons resurfaced in unexpected ways during her engineering studies, reinforcing INTL’s belief that creativity and critical thinking are deeply connected.
Mandy went on to pursue an extraordinary academic path, earning both a master’s degree and PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford University followed by a second master’s degree in Information and Data Science from the University of California Berkeley a decade later. Her career placed her at the forefront of science, artificial intelligence, and human-centered innovation. At Google X, Mandy was a key member of the team that helped develop a groundbreaking contact lens capable of detecting glucose levels, an inspiring example of technological ingenuity being used to improve people’s lives. She later worked within Alphabet’s Verily, where her focus remained on the intersection of technology, healthcare, and human impact. Across every role, Mandy demonstrated a deep belief in using innovation thoughtfully and responsibly to serve humanity.
Today, Mandy’s connection to INTL has beautifully come full circle. She now experiences the school through a deeply personal lens, as a mother of two children currently enrolled at INTL. Watching her children walk the same halls, explore the same classrooms, and experience the same magic of curiosity, creativity, and challenge that shaped her own childhood has been profoundly meaningful.
Mandy has given back to INTL in countless ways over the years, reflecting a enduring commitment to the school community. She has volunteered extensively for Arts Night, served as a room parent, and been a passionate Annual Fund Champion, consistently showing up to support students, teachers, and programs in meaningful ways. She has also been both a guest speaker at INTL Connect and the Major Donor Dinner, sharing her insights and experiences with the broader INTL community. Recently, Mandy took on the role of INTL Board Director, bringing with her years of dedication, perspective, and leadership as she now helps guide the school’s future at the highest level.
Throughout her life, Mandy has also maintained a deep love for nature and the outdoors. Exploring the natural world allows her to connect with the more human and calming aspects of life, while still challenging herself to step into the unknown. Whether hiking new trails or setting out on family adventures, Mandy treasures time spent outdoors, often carrying her little ones on her back, as moments of reflection, discovery, and connection. This love of nature mirrors the way she approaches life: with curiosity, resilience, and an openness to exploration.
As Mandy looks ahead to the next chapter of her journey, one thing remains certain: whatever path she chooses, it will continue to be guided by curiosity, compassion, and a commitment to positive change. Her story is a testament to the enduring power of an INTL education, and to the remarkable ways our alumni carry the Spirit of INTL into the world. We are incredibly proud to honor Mandy Korphi and celebrate the lasting legacy she represents.