In Memory of Lew Hoyt

Coach, mentor, hero. Lew Hoyt believed in our students and inspired us all to be our best.”

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Lew Hoyt — a devoted mentor, volunteer, and true community champion. Lew was a National Collegiate Champion in the high jump and an alternate on the U.S. teams in the 1960s; he served our country as a Marine fighter pilot and later as a TOPGUN instructor, then spent decades as a commercial airline captain. After surviving cancer, Lew and his wife Nancy gave generously to local students and teachers (including the “Empowering Kids” scholarships and other endowments), and Lew spent countless hours coaching and encouraging Sedona Red Rock High School athletes — treating our students like his own.

As Lew often said:

“Surround yourself with people who inspire you. Believe, set goals, and work harder than other people. If you want to be average, just do what everybody else does. That’s how you learn to be the best that you can be.”

We are forever grateful for his service, his generosity, and the countless lives he lifted up. His example of excellence and service will continue to inspire our students and community.